Chaste berry is most commonly used to treat hormonal-related issues in women, such as menstrual problems, and symptoms of menopause and some forms of acne.
The prolactin hormone stimulates milk production and promotes breast growth during pregnancy; high levels of it are linked to fertility issues.
Chasteberry is capable of reducing inflammation of the uterus or the ovaries, it works well for women who are prone to painful fibroids and cysts.
Chaste tree berry (Vitex agnus-catus) or monk's pepper, is the fruit of the chaste tree.
Chasteberry increases luteinizing hormone and inhibits the release of Follicle-stimulating hormone, which thus boosts the levels of progesterone production and improves the chances of getting pregnant and maintaining the pregnancy.
Major & minor side effects for Chasteberry
While chasteberry is not associated with any serious side effects, it can cause
- dizziness
- abdominal cramping
- nausea
- fatigue
- dry mouth
- skin reactions
High levels of prolactin can also lead to “hyperprolactinemia” in women which can lead to the problem in conceiving.
As chaste berry may have an impact on your hormones, it’s essential you see your GP before taking it if you are undergoing any kind of hormonal treatment. Also, if you are taking antipsychotic drugs or medications for Parkinson’s disease you should check with your GP before taking chaste berry as it may interfere.
- It is an essential cofactor for many enzymes related to energy metabolism, and activates the insulin-signaling cascade to help lower blood sugar.
- Alpha-lipoic converts blood sugar (glucose) into energy using oxygen, a process referred to as aerobic metabolism. Alpha-lipoic acid is also considered an antioxidant, meaning that it can neutralize harmful compounds called free radicals that damage cells at the genetic level.
- It has long been presumed that alpha-lipoic acid can aid in the control of glucose by increasing the speed in which the blood sugar is metabolized. This could potentially aid in the treatment of diabetes
- It is believed by some that alpha-lipoic acid can effectpeople with diabetic neuropathy,
- Alpha-lipoic acid's ability to enhance calorie burning and promote weight loss has been exaggerated by many diet gurus and supplements manufacturers.
- Alpha-lipoic acid has long been believed to influence weight and health by altering the lipid (fat) composition in the blood.
- Cosmetics manufacturers often like to boast that their products benefit from the anti-aging properties of alpha-lipoic acid.
- Nausea,
- Abdominal pain,
- Allergic reaction,
- Diarrhea,
- Vertigo,
- Vomiting
- muscle cramp,
- a tingling "pins and needles" sensation.
- Food decreases the amount of alpha lipoic acid in the body; hence it should be taken on empty stomach about 1 hour before or 2 hours after consuming food.
- Do not take alpha lipoic acid supplements on your own and as a sole treatment for diabetes, complications of diabetes and other conditions in which benefit may be claimed, as these diseases require proper medical treatment.
