Evidence supporting the use of: Vitex (unspecified)
For the health condition: Amenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree or chasteberry, has a long history of traditional use in treating menstrual disorders, including amenorrhea (absence of menstruation). Its therapeutic use dates back to Ancient Greece and Rome, where it was believed to influence female reproductive health. In traditional European herbal medicine, Vitex has been employed to address various menstrual irregularities, including both absent and irregular periods.
The proposed mechanism of action is thought to involve modulation of the pituitary gland, particularly influencing prolactin secretion, which can affect the menstrual cycle. Some small clinical studies and observational reports have suggested that Vitex may help regulate the menstrual cycle, especially in cases related to mild hyperprolactinemia or luteal phase defects. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically examining Vitex for amenorrhea are lacking, and most of the evidence comes from broader studies on menstrual disorders or from anecdotal reports.
Overall, the use of Vitex for amenorrhea is primarily justified by traditional and historical usage, with modest preliminary scientific support but insufficient rigorous clinical evidence. Therefore, it is commonly recommended by herbalists and alternative medicine practitioners, but not widely endorsed by mainstream medical guidelines for this specific condition.
Other ingredients used for Amenorrhea
ashwagandhachaste tree
chasteberry
dong quai root
fennel
fenugreek
ginger
ginseng
licorice root
maca
motherwort
rhodiola
vitamin B6
vitamin D
wild yam
shen-chu
anise
blessed thistle
dioscorea
shepherd's purse
Angelica
Achyranthes
Alchemilla
Aletris
Aerva lanata
Anemone
Asteracea
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Blue Cohosh
Bethroot
Ba Ji Tian
Cohosh
Clary sage
Cnidium
Cyathula
Chrysophanics
Dong Quai
Estrogen
Iris
Pennyroyal
Other health conditions supported by Vitex (unspecified)
AmenorrheaAnxiety
Dysmenorrhea
Endometriosis
Estrogen (low)
Infertility
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type C
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)
Puberty (hormone balancer)
Sex Drive (low)
Vaginal Dryness