Chasteberry Seed
Vitex agnus-castus
A Strong clinical evidenceChasteberry dry extract may help with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS); regular use for 3 months is recommended for effect.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
The EMA classes standardised dry extract of chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus fruit) as "well-established use" for premenstrual syndrome. Use is limited to ready-made products with standardised extract; seed tea is outside this assessment. Because it may affect hormone and dopamine systems, some people should ask a doctor first.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
A Strong clinical evidence
Strong clinical evidence: Supported by strong human clinical trials and well-established medicinal use monographs.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Standardised dry extract may help with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). [1]
How is it used?
Food
Adult women use a ready-made product with standardised dry extract as labelled (e.g. 20 mg dry extract once daily).
Amount: Once daily
Duration limit: 3 months for effect; see a doctor if symptoms persist after 3 months
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 18 years
- Ask a doctor first if you have or had oestrogen-sensitive cancer or a pituitary disorder; it can mask symptoms of prolactin-secreting tumours.
- Not recommended under 18.
- Not recommended in pregnancy, or while breastfeeding as it may affect milk production.
- If symptoms worsen or do not improve within the stated time, see a doctor or pharmacist.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Dopamine agonists and antagonists, oestrogens and anti-oestrogens | Interactions cannot be excluded because of possible dopamine-like and oestrogenic effects; ask a doctor first. [1] | Moderate |
Side effects
- Severe allergic reactions with facial swelling or breathing difficulty; rash, hives, acne
- Headache, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain
- Menstrual irregularities
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Chasteberry extract needs regular use for premenstrual syndrome; the EMA accepts this based on clinical data. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does chasteberry help PMS?
Based on clinical data, the EMA accepts that standardised chasteberry extract may help with PMS symptoms.
How long should I take chasteberry?
Regular use for 3 months is recommended; see a doctor if symptoms persist after 3 months.
Does chasteberry seed tea work the same?
The EMA assessment covers standardised extracts; seed tea is not included.
Who should not take chasteberry?
Under-18s and pregnant or breastfeeding women; those on hormonal contraception, hormone therapy or dopamine medicines should ask a doctor first.
Sources
Cite This Page
Chasteberry Seed (Vitex agnus-castus). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/chasteberry-seed/
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