Vitex / Chaste tree

Vitex agnus castus or Chaste tree is a perennial shrub like tree which is also known as Chasteberry, or Monk's Pepper and is native to Mediterranean region. Vitex grows up to 1-5 meters of height and has scented foliage and flowers that widely cultivated in temperate and subtropical regions. Vitex is a great flowering herb to overcome women’s problems. ^[1]

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Ancient Use

Vitex has long been used for female complaints and considered as the single most important plant which is reputable for its use in the condition of premenstrual syndrome. ^[2] Vitex contains flavonoids and supposed a tonic herb for both male and female reproductive systems. ^{[1, 3]}1 The leaves of Chaste tree are considered to have positive effect on PMS but to a slighter extent. ^{[1, 3]} Vitex is commonly called as Monk’s Pepper because in the beginning monks were used it to suppress libido to remain celibate, hence the name chaste berry signifies its anaphrodisiac effect i.e. anti-libido effect. ^{[1, 2]}

Scientific evidence shows that Vitex or Chasteberry has profound effects on pituitary function which alters hormonal levels to reduce PMS. ^{[1, 2]} Vitex has beneficial effects on menopause because it may cause alteration in pituitary function. ^[2] Researchers have found that Vitex has flavonoids which help to reduce the pain and neurological symptoms of menstrual cycle. ^{[2, 3]}

Chaste tree often comes as a tincture and can be consumed until the symptoms resolve. ^{[1, 5]}

Possible Health Aspects of Vitex or Chaste Tree

Effects on Menstrual Problems

Vitex is very useful for menstruation and helpful in reducing symptoms of premenstrual stress syndrome (PMS), including mood swings, depression, anxiety, craving and water retention. Various clinical trials have been done on Vitex and after a large German study, it has been reported that Vitex exhibits its wholesome effects on management of symptoms of premenstrual stress syndrome and infertility. ^{[2, 3, 6]} Researchers revealed that Vitex or Chasteberry helps balance hormone production during menstrual cycle by increasing the production of leuteinizing hormone and inhibiting the release of follicle stimulating hormone that results in less estrogen to aggravate PMS. ^{[4, 6]}

Dysmenorrhea is the term applied for painful menstrual bleeding and menstrual cramps. It may be a consequence of some physical abnormality or it can be related with lifestyle. Supplementation with Chasteberry plays a significant role to juggle the abnormalities of menstrual cycle. ^[3] Its use may assist those females who are infertile. ^{[1, 3]} Chasteberry has calming and soothing effect and relieves menstrual cramps. ^{[4, 6]}

Amenorrhea is a medical term for lack of menstruation or no menstrual flow. Amenorrhea is often associated with elevated blood levels of the hormone prolactin. ^{[4, 5]} Chaste tree seems to work on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain to lower the overabundance of prolactin and restores menses. ^{[4, 5]} Vitex extract or Chasteberry is a widely used herbal remedy which is validate for its menstrual cycle restoring effect. ^{[4, 5]}

Effects on Breast Tenderness

Some scientists believed that fatty acids and hormonal imbalance may be related to breast tenderness. Cyclic breast tenderness frequently increases as women approach perimenopause and may decrease after menopause. Vitex contains an essential fatty acid linoleic acid which is responsible for lowering breast tenderness. ^[4]

Positive Effects on Breastfeeding Problems

Supplementation with Vitex shortly after delivery promotes milk production thus enhances lactation. Vitex is considered as ornamental flowering tree which make breastfeeding a more satisfying experience and this function of Chaste berry is beyond the usual uses like PMS, breast tenderness and menstrual complaints. ^{[4, 6]}

Effects on Menopause

Menopause is the cessation of menstrual cycle and scientists have been endorsed Vitex or Chaste berry as a normalizing herb for female sex hormones and it has wholesome effects during menopausal changes. ^{[1, 4]} Vitex may have positive effects on hot flashes. ^{[3, 6]}

Warning for Vitex

Vitex is a frequently touted herbal supplement to quell PMS, but it should be steer clear of during pregnancy to avoid chances of complications. ^[1]

References:

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitex_agnus-castus
2. Michael T. Murray, N.D. (1995) The Healing Power Of Herbs. (Revised and Expanded 2nd Edition) Page No. 375, 376. New York: Gramercy Books.
3. Marcia Zimmerman, CN & Jayson Kroner, CSN. (2006). 7-Syndrome Healing. Page No. 224, 225, 226. Chico, California: Nutrition Solution Publications.
4. James A. Duke (1997). The Green Pharmacy. Page No. 13, 41, 42, 91, 324, 325, 327, 364, 365. Pennsylvania: Rodale Press Emmaus.
5. Dr. Richard Firshein (1998) The Nutraceutical Revolution. Page No. 290. London: Vermilion
6. Phyllis A. Balch, CNC & James F. Balch, M.D. (2000). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. (3rd edition) Page No. 93. Penguin Putnam INC. New York: Avery.

Disclaimer

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease.