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Organic Chaste Tree

Also known as: Chaste tree, Chasteberry, Monk's pepper, Vitex agnus-castus

Overview

*Vitex agnus-castus*, commonly known as chaste tree or chasteberry, is a herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region. Its dried fruit has been utilized historically in traditional medicine for the relief of female reproductive health issues, particularly premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and irregular menstruation. The herb is often standardized to specific ratios of bioactive compounds for efficacy and is typically extracted using ethanol. Research indicates that *Vitex agnus-castus* is effective in alleviating PMS symptoms, normalizing menstrual cycles, and managing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The body of research surrounding it is robust, featuring numerous randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews that validate its therapeutic benefits for women, especially those suffering from cyclic menstrual disorders.

Benefits

*Vitex agnus-castus* has several evidence-based benefits, particularly for women experiencing PMS and PMDD. A meta-analysis highlighted that women taking the supplement were 2.57 times more likely to see symptom remission compared to placebo, indicating significant clinical effect size. Systematic reviews have shown its effectiveness in treating PMDD, equated to fluoxetine in some studies, and in reducing cyclic mastalgia and hormonal imbalances associated with hyperprolactinemia. The main population benefiting are women with menstrual disorders, whose symptoms significantly improve after consistent use over several menstrual cycles.

How it works

*Vitex agnus-castus* is believed to act on various biological pathways involving neurotransmitter and hormone modulation. It likely influences dopamine and prolactin levels, which are critical for regulating the menstrual cycle and mood. Additionally, the herb has been shown to affect serotonin levels, which may correlate with PMS and PMDD symptoms. By interacting with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, *Vitex agnus-castus* helps achieve hormonal balance, targeting specific molecular receptors that influence hormonal secretion.

Side effects

While generally considered safe, *Vitex agnus-castus* may cause mild side effects in some individuals. Common adverse effects reported include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and stomach pain, as well as headaches, occurring in more than 5% of users. Less frequent side effects include dizziness, fatigue, and skin rash, with an occurrence rate between 1-5%. Severe or rare side effects are not well-documented, but allergic reactions could theoretically occur. Caution is advised when taking it alongside dopamine antagonists or other hormonal-affecting drugs. It is contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety data. Women with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult their healthcare provider before use.

Dosage

The recommended daily dosage of *Vitex agnus-castus* generally ranges from 20 to 40 mg of a standardized extract, taken once in the morning for optimal hormonal balance maintenance. While doses above this range have not been extensively studied, it is advised not to exceed 40 mg daily. Standardized dry extracts or tinctures with an ethanol concentration of 50-60% are preferred for efficacy. Good oral bioavailability is noted for standardized extracts, but individual absorption rates may vary. Additionally, it may be beneficial to combine this supplement with others like vitamin B6 or magnesium to enhance its effects.