Chasteberry for PMS

Here’s a quick note from the Mayo Clinic HealthQuest newsletter.  Dr. Brent Bauer writes about Chasteberry, a supplement that has been used for centuries for women’s hormone-related problems.  The question is, is there really any evidence that chasteberry is a help?

According to Dr Bauer, the answer is “yes”.  There have indeed been clinical trials for the treatment of PMS, and chasteberry did help with some symptoms.  Some of the key symptoms it seemed to help include – headache!  It was also a help with depression and irritability, breast pain or tenderness, constipation and swelling.

Now, please note that this is a very mild treatment, better if taken over a period of time.  If you’re dealing with a raging migraine, you might want to look somewhere else.  But if you’re bothered by a mild PMS headache, this might be the thing to try.  Look for a good standardized formula, such as Swanson Chasteberry Fruit, available in capsules.  This supplement should not be taken if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and you should be sure to check with a doctor who knows what other drugs and supplements you’re taking.  However, chasteberry is generally well tolerated.