Comparisons
Chasteberry or Red Clover?
Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) and red clover (Trifolium pratense) are sold for hormone-related complaints, but they target different life stages and their evidence is limited. The table is built from the sourced cards of both herbs.
| Aspect | Chasteberry SeedVitex agnus-castus | Red CloverTrifolium pratense |
|---|---|---|
| Strongest evidence | B Limited clinical evidence | B Limited clinical evidence |
| Needs | Women’s Health | Women’s Health, Heart & Circulation |
| Form | Seed | Dried Herb & Tea |
| How to use | Adult women use a ready-made product with standardised dry extract as labelled (e.g. 20 mg dry extract once daily). | Studies used standardised isoflavone extracts, which were used for up to 2 years with apparent safety. There is no verified dose for tea. |
| Pregnancy | Avoid | Avoid |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid | Avoid |
| Recommended minimum age | From age 18 | Not stated |
| Drug interactions | Interactions reported | Interactions reported |
| Duration limit | 3 months for effect; see a doctor if symptoms persist after 3 months | Not stated |
Which one, when?
Chasteberry Seed
Its standardised dry extract may support premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms; studies are mostly positive but at high risk of bias. Use regularly for 3 months; not recommended under 18.
Full card →Red Clover
Its isoflavone extracts have given inconsistent results for menopausal hot flushes; a possible drop in total cholesterol has been reported in menopausal women. There is no confirmed dose for the tea.
Full card →Good to know
- People with a history of hormone-sensitive cancer should talk to a doctor before chasteberry and should not use red clover.
- Red clover may raise bleeding risk; do not use it with blood thinners or before surgery.
- Neither is recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Sources
- European Union herbal monograph on Vitex agnus-castus L., fructus – Revision 1EMA HMPC · 2018 · MonographSource accessed:
- The treatment of premenstrual syndrome with preparations of Vitex agnus castus: a systematic review and meta-analysisAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology · 2017 · Systematic reviewSource accessed:
- Red Clover: Usefulness and SafetyNIH NCCIH · 2025 · Official agency informationSource accessed:
- Red CloverMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center — About Herbs · 2022 · Reference bookSource accessed: