CHASTE TREE (VITEX)
What Is CHASTE TREE (VITEX)?
Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is an herbal supplement derived from the berries of the chaste tree, containing iridoid glycosides, diterpenes, and flavonoids. It acts primarily through dopamine D2 receptor binding in the pituitary, influencing prolactin levels and hormonal balance. Vitex is most commonly used for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual irregularities, fertility support, and cyclical breast pain.
CHASTE TREE (VITEX) Research & Studies
01 The treatment of premenstrual syndrome with preparations of Vitex agnus castus: a systematic review and meta-analysis ▸
A comprehensive systematic review found that Vitex agnus castus preparations are effective for treating premenstrual syndrome symptoms, with good tolerability and acceptability among women with PMS.
View Study (PubMed)02 Effects of the PREMEN-CALM® in the Management of the Premenstrual Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study ▸
A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that a supplement containing Vitex agnus-castus combined with other ingredients effectively alleviates premenstrual syndrome symptoms over 3 months compared to placebo.
View Study (PubMed)03 A Patented Blend Consisting of a Combination of Vitex agnus-castus Extract, Lepidium meyenii (Maca) Extract and Active Folate, a Nutritional Supplement for Improving Fertility in Women ▸
Research investigating a combination supplement including Vitex showed improvements in fertility outcomes for women when used alone or with additional nutrients.
View Study (PubMed)04 Botanicals and Their Bioactive Phytochemicals for Women's Health ▸
A comprehensive review identifies Vitex agnus-castus as one of the botanical supplements commonly used by women for PMS, though rigorous clinical trials for some applications remain limited.
View Study (PubMed)05 Isolation of linoleic acid as an estrogenic compound from the fruits of Vitex agnus-castus L. (chaste-berry) ▸
Research identified linoleic acid as an estrogenic component in chaste tree berries that binds to both estrogen receptor alpha and beta, with the extract inducing progesterone receptor mRNA upregulation.
View Study (PubMed)06 Chasteberry (LactMed Database) ▸
Chasteberry's effects on prolactin are dose-dependent: low doses may increase prolactin while high doses decrease it, with most adverse events being mild and reversible including nausea, headache, and menstrual changes.
View Study (PubMed)07 Rhabdomyolysis in an unsuspecting patient ▸
A case report documented a 36-year-old woman who developed severe rhabdomyolysis four days after starting Vitex following routine exercise, raising concerns about potential muscle damage risks.
View Study (PubMed)CHASTE TREE (VITEX) User Reviews & Experiences
*Based on large scale analysis of publicly available user experiences
User experiences with Vitex are genuinely mixed, with some reporting successful hormone regulation and menstrual cycle improvements, while others experience irregular periods, spotting, and withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing. Many users struggle with finding reliable dosing information and report that effects can be unpredictable.
CHASTE TREE (VITEX) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects
- Menstrual Regulation: Users report improved cycle regularity and timing when taken consistently, though some experience irregular periods or spotting when starting or stopping
- Hormone Balance: Many users take Vitex specifically for hormone regulation, often combining it with DIM or other supplements to manage estrogen and progesterone levels
- PMS Symptom Relief: Users report relief from premenstrual symptoms including mood changes, cramps, and tension headaches when taken throughout the month
- Withdrawal Effects: Discontinuing Vitex after prolonged use can cause late or missed periods, spotting, and temporary hormonal disruption lasting several weeks
- Individual Response Varies: Effectiveness appears highly individual, with some users experiencing significant benefits for cycle regulation while others see minimal improvement or adverse effects
- Works Better Than DIM Alone: Several users report that Vitex (chasteberry extract) was more effective for menstrual regulation than DIM supplementation alone
- Combination Therapy: Often used alongside other supplements like evening primrose oil, magnesium, or DIM for enhanced hormonal support
- Time to Effect: Benefits typically require consistent daily use over weeks to months, with some users taking it for years before deciding to discontinue
- Standard Dosing: Most commercial preparations provide one capsule daily, though users express difficulty finding reliable dosing information from trusted sources
- Pharmaceutical Brands: Prefemin is mentioned as a pharmaceutical-grade option with standardized dosing that may be more reliable than generic brands
- Form Variations: Available in pill, powder, dried berry, and extract forms, with users uncertain about which form is most effective
- Continuous vs Cyclical: Some sources suggest it should not be used continuously, though many users take it daily for extended periods
- Menstrual Irregularities: Spotting, late periods, and cycle disruption are commonly reported, especially when starting or stopping the supplement
- Mild Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea and digestive disturbances are noted as possible side effects, though generally mild and reversible
- Muscle Issues: One case report documents severe rhabdomyolysis following Vitex use with exercise, though this appears rare
- Hormone-Related Changes: Users report acne changes, mood effects, and other hormonal symptoms, suggesting significant impact on endocrine function
- Widely Available: Vitex supplements can be purchased online, at health stores, and from various brands without prescription, though quality varies significantly
- Not FDA Regulated: As an herbal supplement, Vitex is not FDA-regulated, leading to concerns about standardization and potency across different products
- Pharmaceutical Options Exist: Brand name options like Prefemin offer standardized formulations that may provide more consistent dosing than generic supplements
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