Evidence supporting the use of: Five-leaf Chastetree
For the health condition: Cramps (menstrual)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Five-leaf Chastetree (Vitex negundo) has a long history of traditional use for treating various gynecological conditions, including menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), especially in systems of medicine such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. The leaves and seeds are often used in decoctions, infusions, or topical preparations to help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstruation. Traditional texts attribute its benefits to anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, and it is believed to help regulate menstrual flow and reduce cramping.
However, scientific validation for this use is limited. While some laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects of extracts from Vitex negundo, there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically evaluating its efficacy in women with menstrual cramps. Most of the available data supporting its use are based on traditional practices, anecdotal reports, and a few small-scale studies. Therefore, while its use for menstrual cramps is rooted in tradition and supported by some preclinical evidence, there is insufficient high-quality clinical research to fully endorse its effectiveness for this condition by modern scientific standards.
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