Chaste Tree for PMS

Introduction

Premenstrual Syndrome — PMS — can get in the way of life. Buuut, it doesn't have to.

Don't get me wrong, we're cyclical beings. A bit of change in the luteal phase before your period starts = normal and to be expected. Fluid dynamics, metabolism, energy levels, and digestion can all change a bit before your period. But, when those changes start impacting your life significantly, it's time to consider some support.

As a naturopathic doctor with a focus on menstrual health and fertility, I see A LOT of PMS. And I also see a fair bit of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder, more on that in this blog post).

Most of my PMS patients don't eat enough, and dietary changes can go a looong way. You can download PMS nutrition support through my free Plant-Based PMS Companion.

Chaste tree berries and leaves, a natural remedy for PMS

Natural Solutions for PMS

There are many different ways to treat PMS naturally. Some of the supplements employed include:

Chamomile
Calcium
Magnesium
Omega-3s
Vitamin B6

One of the most effective herbs we have is drumroll Chaste tree, or Vitex (from Vitex agnus-castus).

Benefits of Chaste Tree

This herb is a potent reproductive health herb. It can help with both the physical and mental-emotional symptoms of PMS (and it's actually beneficial for PMDD too).

It helps with:

Acne
Breast tenderness
Irritability
Premenstrual spotting

The dosage studied is 40mg, and the good news is that the benefits of using it for 3-6 months can persist up to 3 months after discontinuation.

Herbal Combinations

In herbal medicine, chaste tree is often used in combination with other nervous system herbs like:

Chamomile
Passionflower
Lemonbalm

(And, since chamomile independently helps with the emotional symptoms of PMS, the two together could be a good combo!)

It's quite a safe herb (but a skin rash can occur).

Interestingly, this herb is first-line treatment for PMS in Germany and is covered by public healthcare. That's probably why it's popular as a first-line option over there (plus its efficacy!).

Important Note

As always, consult with your healthcare team to make sure any additions to your health plan are fitting for you.

References

Zamani M, Neghab N, Torabian S. Therapeutic effect of Vitex agnus castus in patients with premenstrual syndrome. Acta Med Iran. 2012;50(2):101-6.