Post by Jana on Sept 22, 2004 20:32:29 GMT -5
Herbal Solution for Severe PMS
Chaste tree rivals meds for symptom relief
by Sara Altshul
What it is
Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), a shrublike tree covered with spiky, fragrant flowers in the summertime. The flowers give way to the peppery berries that are used medicinally. The herb is also known as vitex.
What folk medicine says
In the Middle Ages, it was called "monk's pepper" and replaced pepper as a spice in monasteries because of its supposed libido-lowering effects. Despite this unfounded reputation as a male chill pill, chaste tree has long been used in Europe for its abilities to tackle women's reproductive problems.
What we know
At least 18 clinical studies involving more than 8,000 participants back chaste tree's safe use to treat premenstrual syndrome, breast tenderness, and menstrual irregularities.
What new research confirms
It works. Chaste tree rivals fluoxetine (Prozac) as a treatment for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Emotional symptoms of PMDD include severe depression, irritability, and mood swings; common physical symptoms are breast tenderness, abdominal cramps, bloating, and headaches.
Forty-one women ages 18 to 49, all with symptoms of PMDD, were studied recently at the Firat University School of Medicine in Turkey. Half were given Prozac; the other half, chaste tree extract. After 8 weeks, researchers reported that both treatments effectively relieved PMDD symptoms.
Dose
30 to 40 drops, three times daily
What to buy
Chaste tree tincture. A good source: Herbalist & Alchemist, which is available at health food stores, or call (800) 611-8235.
Page 1 of 1
Sara Altshul is Prevention's alternative medicine editor.
Chaste tree rivals meds for symptom relief
by Sara Altshul
What it is
Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), a shrublike tree covered with spiky, fragrant flowers in the summertime. The flowers give way to the peppery berries that are used medicinally. The herb is also known as vitex.
What folk medicine says
In the Middle Ages, it was called "monk's pepper" and replaced pepper as a spice in monasteries because of its supposed libido-lowering effects. Despite this unfounded reputation as a male chill pill, chaste tree has long been used in Europe for its abilities to tackle women's reproductive problems.
What we know
At least 18 clinical studies involving more than 8,000 participants back chaste tree's safe use to treat premenstrual syndrome, breast tenderness, and menstrual irregularities.
What new research confirms
It works. Chaste tree rivals fluoxetine (Prozac) as a treatment for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Emotional symptoms of PMDD include severe depression, irritability, and mood swings; common physical symptoms are breast tenderness, abdominal cramps, bloating, and headaches.
Forty-one women ages 18 to 49, all with symptoms of PMDD, were studied recently at the Firat University School of Medicine in Turkey. Half were given Prozac; the other half, chaste tree extract. After 8 weeks, researchers reported that both treatments effectively relieved PMDD symptoms.
Dose
30 to 40 drops, three times daily
What to buy
Chaste tree tincture. A good source: Herbalist & Alchemist, which is available at health food stores, or call (800) 611-8235.
Page 1 of 1
Sara Altshul is Prevention's alternative medicine editor.
It has changed my life.
