Chaste Extract
Also known as: Chaste Tree, Chasteberry, Monk's Pepper, Vitex, Vitex agnus-castus
Overview
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly referred to as chaste tree or chasteberry, is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. The fruit of this plant has been used in traditional herbal medicine to address various hormonal issues, with extracts containing standardized levels of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, iridoids, and terpenoids, which are thought to contribute to its therapeutic benefits. Clinical research has substantiated the effectiveness of chaste tree extract in alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), highlighting its role in women's health and the management of conditions linked to hormonal fluctuations. The increasing popularity of chaste tree extract coincides with a broadened acknowledgment of its therapeutic applications, especially concerning women's hormonal health.
Benefits
Chaste tree extract has demonstrated notable efficacy in the management of PMS and PMDD symptoms. A meta-analysis conducted in 2019 revealed that women who consumed the extract reported a 2.57 times greater reduction in PMS symptoms compared to those taking a placebo (95% CI 1.52-4.35). Additionally, it has been shown to lessen cyclic breast pain associated with PMS. These findings underscore its utility, particularly for women experiencing these conditions, with clinical evaluations indicating significant improvements within a few menstrual cycles, positioning chaste tree extract as a credible option for managing PMS and PMDD effectively.
How it works
While the exact mechanism of action for chaste tree extract is not fully understood, it is believed to modulate levels of neurotransmitters and hormones such as dopamine and prolactin, which are pivotal in emotional regulation and menstrual cycle stability. These interactions within hormonal pathways are thought to be integral to the extract's therapeutic effects, though detailed biological targets and pathways remain to be comprehensively defined.
Side effects
Chaste tree extract is generally regarded as safe when administered as directed, with adverse effects reported infrequently. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include gastrointestinal disturbances, headaches, and dizziness. Less common adverse effects, affecting 1-5% of users, may involve allergic reactions or skin rashes. Rarely, severe allergic reactions have been noted. Caution is advised due to potential interactions with dopamine antagonists and other central nervous system-affecting medications. The extract is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with a history of bleeding disorders, individuals with hormonally sensitive cancers, and women taking hormonal contraceptives.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for chaste tree extract typically ranges from 20 mg to 40 mg per day, ideally initiated at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Clinical studies indicate that 20 mg is the minimum effective dose, while dosages exceeding 40 mg per day do not receive strong support from clinical literature. Standardized formulations, such as Ze 440 or BNO 1095, are often utilized to optimize efficacy and bioavailability, and no specific cofactors are required for optimal absorption.
FAQs
How long does it take to see benefits?
Benefits are typically observed within a few menstrual cycles.
Can it be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No, it is contraindicated in these populations.
Are there any interactions with other medications?
There is potential for interactions with dopamine antagonists and other CNS-affecting medications.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Generally considered safe, but long-term studies are limited.
What are the common side effects?
Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms, headaches, and dizziness.
Research Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6542822/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of Vitex agnus-castus in relieving PMS and PMDD symptoms. The analysis highlighted significant symptom reduction and concluded that chaste tree extract is a viable management strategy for these hormonal disorders.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058239/ – This research documented the bioactive compounds found in chaste tree extract and their potential mechanisms of action. The study supports the extract's hormonal effects and its role in women’s health, specifically in managing menstrual-related conditions.
Supplements Containing Chaste Extract
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