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Monk's pepper

Monk 's pepper is a small shrub-like tree that is native to Central Asia and the Mediterranean region. Monk 's pepper is also known as the chaste tree, a name that can be traced back to reports of monks using the fruit of this tree in the Middle Ages to reduce sexual desire. The dried fruit of monk's pepper is available in the form of liquid extracts, capsules and tablets.

What is monk's pepper used for?

In ancient times, it was believed that monk's pepper reduced the sex drive. In the Middle Ages, monks used the fruits of this plant to promote chastity. Monk's pepper is also an old folk remedy that is said to help new mothers produce more milk. However, monk's pepper is no longer recommended for this use, as it is not believed to be safe and harmless when used in this way. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take monk's pepper. Today, monk's pepper is commonly used in Europe to treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and some recent research supports such use. Scientists believe that this supplement causes the body to produce lower levels of the hormone prolactin. Too much prolactin can cause PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, irritability and depression. Some small studies show that monk's pepper can significantly reduce PMS symptoms. One study found that monk's pepper reduced PMS symptoms by 50% in more than half of the women who took the supplement. However, larger studies over a longer period of time are still required for a conclusive statement. Other research suggests that monk's pepper may help with infertility, irregular periods and symptoms of menopause, although this evidence is rather weak.

Can monk's pepper be taken naturally with food?

Monk's pepper supplements are made from the dried fruit of the monk's pepper bush. These supplements are available in tablet or liquid form.

Dosages used

Typical dosages range from 20 to 40 mg of monk's pepper extract per day, although optimal dosages for different areas of application have not yet been determined. In addition, the quality and quantity of the active ingredients can vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer, making it difficult to determine a standard dosage.

Risks and side effects

So far, no serious side effects have been reported with monk's pepper. Side effects can include acne, headaches, menstrual bleeding, reddening of the skin, stomach problems, weight gain, dizziness and drowsiness. Scientific studies have shown that high doses of monk's pepper can damage the liver. Monk's pepper can affect the levels of hormones that play a key role in pregnancy, breastfeeding, menstruation and some cancers. For this reason, monk's pepper should not be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, suffering from breast cancer, using birth control pills or taking hormone replacement therapy. Monk's pepper may interact with medications that affect dopamine levels in the brain. For this reason, monk's pepper products should not be used if you are taking certain antipsychotic medications or medications for Parkinson's disease.

References

  • Vigod, S. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, June 2010.
  • Schellenberg, R. British Medical Journal, 2001.
  • Wang, Y.J. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, Feb. 1, 2011.
  • Ferri, F.F., editor, Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2013, 1st edition, Mosby Elsevier; 2012.
  • van Die, M.D. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2009.
  • Biggs, W. American Family Physician, Oct. 15, 2011.
  • National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: "Chasteberry."
  • Natural Standard: "Chasteberry."