Chasteberry & Red Raspberry

Chasteberry is also known by the names Chaste Tree, Monk's Pepper, Hemp Tree, Indian Spice, Sage Tree, Vitex, and Agnus-castus. Chasteberry has the effect of stimulating and normalizing pituitary gland functions, especially its progesterone function. It may be called an amphoteric remedy, as it can produce apparently opposite effects though in truth it is simply normalizing. It has a reputation as both an aphrodisiac and an anaphrodisiac. It will usually enable whatever is appropriate to occur. The greatest use of Chasteberry lies in normalizing the activity of female sex hormones, and it is thus indicated for dysmenorrhoea, premenstrual stress and other disorders related to hormone function. It is especially beneficial during menopausal changes. In a similar way, Chasteberry may be used to aid the body in regaining a natural balance after the prolonged use of birth control pills. Chasteberry improves the production of progesterone, increases luteinizing hormones and prolactin, and inhibits the release of follicle stimulating hormone. It can help normalize the menses, shortening a long cycle or lengthening a short one. It helps to normalize the functions of the pituitary gland. A study conducted in London (double blind study) showed a 60% group reduction or elimination of PMS symptoms such as anxiety, nervous tension, insomnia, or mood changes, from subjects who were taking Chasteberry capsules daily.

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Red Raspberry is native to Europe, but it's widely cultivated in North America, Britain, Scandinavia and Scotland. Red Raspberry was used by colonial Americans as an astringent. They used an infusion of the root bark and applied it to the sore eyes. The fresh fruit of Red Raspberry was used for dissolving tartar on the teeth. The leaves are rich in vitamin C and contain astringent qualities due to their high tannin content. Red raspberry leaves have been used by women for centuries as a support to the reproductive system, especially during pregnancy. When used after birthing, it can decrease uterine swelling and minimize postpartum hemorrhaging. This herb is beneficial in normalizing blood flow during menstruation and reducing painful menstrual cramps. Red Raspberry supports the reproductive system by strengthening the tissues of the womb, increasing lactation and easing nausea caused by morning sickness. It also cleanses and prepares breasts for a pure milk supply for the nursing infant by cleansing and purifying the blood. The Raspberry fruit contains a crystallizable fruit-sugar, a fragrant volatile oil, pectin, citric and malic acids, mineral salts, and water. Raspberry leaves and fruit can benefit visual acuity when used for a period of time. It also benefits the joints and tendons. Primary constituents of Red Raspberry include flavonoids, alkaloids, organic acids, vitamin C, iron citrate, calcium chloride, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and tannins.