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Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as vitex or monk’s berry, is the fruit of a small shrub-like tree that is native to Central Asia and the Mediterranean. The name is believed to come from reports in the Middle Ages that monks used the herb to decrease libido.
Studies show chasteberry may reduce estrogen levels while increasing levels of the hormones progesterone and prolactin, possibly by inhibiting the release of follicle-stimulating hormone and by stimulating the luteinizing hormone. (Mills 2000; Brown 1994; Merz 1996)
A Swiss study explored the effect of a chasteberry extract on the growth and apoptosis of three different human prostate epithelial cell lines: two for prostate cancer and one for BPH. Scientists used a variety of assays on the samples and found that extracts of chasteberry contain components that inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in human prostate epithelial cell lines. The study’s authors suggested their findings indicate that chasteberry extract may be helpful in the prevention and/or treatment of BPH and prostate cancer. (Weisskopf 2005)
Chasteberry is not associated with serious side effects, but it may cause acne-like rashes, gastrointestinal problems, and dizziness. Men should consult their healthcare provider before taking chasteberry.
References
Brown D. Vitex agnus castus clinical monograph. Quarterly Review of Natural Medicine 1994; 2:111–21.
Merz PG et al. The effects of a special Agnus castus extract (BP1095E1) on prolactin secretion in healthy male subjects. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 1996; 104:447–53.
Mills S, Bone K. Principles and practice of phytotherapy: modern herbal medicine. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.
Weisskopf M et al. A vitex agnus-castus extract inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis in prostate epithelial cell lines. Planta Med 2005 Oct; 71(10): 910-16
