Everyone, and we mean everyone, can deal with issues in connection to their hormones. While their jobs may differ, a heightened increase or imbalance can lead to similar symptoms. Acne, mood dysregulation, and sexual dysfunction, just to name a few. It can be difficult to find natural ways to combat these irritants. For years, women have looked to this little berry. Why? This is what you need to know about chasteberry.
Chasteberry Composition
A one-sentence summary on the science behind the chasteberry: it influences a balancing act in your pituitary gland. To expand, we need to take a deeper look at this interaction. Located at the base of your brain and no larger than a pea, this organ is essential to making, storing, and releasing hormones. Many who experience issues with their hormones are actually having issues with their levels of progesterone. Whether it's too low or too high, chaste berries influence your pituitary gland to produce less of the luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). By doing this, it balances the level of progesterone in your body.
Chasteberry stimulates the pituitary gland to produce more prolactin hormone. This hormone is especially important for women, as it has a direct effect on menstrual cycles and fertility. If your body is experiencing high levels of prolactin, chasteberry interacts with dopamine receptors in your brain to help lower those levels, promoting yet another balancing act.
Chasteberry's Affect On Your Health
Because of the balancing act happening behind the scenes, you may be wondering how this little berry will change how you feel. For women who are experiencing long, painful periods, there can be some relief. As levels of prolactin slowly balance out in your system, so will your menstrual cycle. This includes symptoms of PMS as well, so mood swings and cravings can become less frequent.
Over time, it will also increase fertility, making it easier for you to become pregnant. As well, you can experience hormonal acne begin to clear up as progesterone levels begin to balance out. The same applies to those going through menopause-type symptoms. Instead of your hormones taking a crash, studies have found that chasteberry can help taper them off as they lessen in your body.
Time To Supplement! How Do I Choose?
First off, always speak with your healthcare practitioner before starting a new supplement to ensure it will not affect your wellbeing. Once you have completed that step, you can definitely incorporate this powerful herb into your daily routine. But you may be confused when certain bottles reference a name known as Vitex or Vitex - Agnus. Is this different from chasteberry?
In actuality, Vitex and chasteberry are the exact same thing! Vitex - Agnus is simply the scientific name for the plant. So, when you're looking for the right supplement, don't be concerned by a different name. But what types of supplements are available? Your typical capsules and tablets are available, as well as tinctures, if you're looking to hide it in smoothies or aren't the biggest fan of pills. You can also find it advertised in teas; just exercise caution as it can be mixed in with other herbs, which affects the efficacy of the herb.
In essence, chasteberry is the ultimate hormone balancer. By working together with different parts of your brain, important hormones can be properly regulated, helping to alleviate bothersome symptoms. Make sure you consult with your physician before adding Vitex to your daily routine. But once you can sit back, relax, and watch, it can help unlock your body's best, balanced version of itself.
