Evidence supporting the use of: Chaste tree
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), commonly referred to as "vitex," has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for various gynecological disorders. Its use for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is based on both traditional practices and some scientific evidence. Mechanistically, chaste tree is thought to exert its effects by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, primarily through dopaminergic activity that decreases prolactin levels, thereby helping to balance reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This hormonal modulation is believed to help alleviate menstrual irregularities and associated symptoms, including dysmenorrhea.

Several clinical studies and systematic reviews have investigated the efficacy of chaste tree for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which often includes dysmenorrhea among its symptoms. A few randomized controlled trials have shown that chaste tree extract can reduce the severity of menstrual pain, though these studies are generally small and sometimes combine dysmenorrhea with other symptoms such as breast tenderness and mood changes. A 2014 Cochrane review of herbal medicinal products for dysmenorrhea noted that while chaste tree shows some promise, the evidence is limited by small sample sizes and methodological issues, and more robust research is needed.

In summary, while chaste tree is supported by both tradition and some scientific evidence for menstrual complaints, its specific efficacy for dysmenorrhea is moderately supported (evidence rating: 3/5). It may help some individuals, especially when dysmenorrhea occurs alongside other menstrual symptoms, but it should not be considered a first-line treatment pending further research.

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