Evidence supporting the use of: Chastetree
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus) has a long history of traditional use in Europe for various female reproductive issues, but its use for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) has also received some scientific investigation. Several clinical studies and reviews support its role in alleviating symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as mastalgia and mood changes, but data specifically addressing dysmenorrhea are more limited. Some randomized controlled trials have included dysmenorrhea as a secondary outcome and noted improvements in menstrual pain, suggesting a potential benefit. The proposed mechanism involves modulation of prolactin release via dopaminergic effects, as well as possible effects on the opioid system, which may help to reduce uterine pain and cramping. Systematic reviews (e.g., by the Cochrane Collaboration) generally conclude that Vitex agnus-castus appears safe and may be effective for PMS, with emerging but not definitive evidence for dysmenorrhea. Thus, while there is some scientific validation, particularly from studies where dysmenorrhea was a secondary endpoint, the overall quality and quantity of evidence specifically for menstrual pain relief is moderate (rated 3/5). Larger, high-quality trials focusing directly on dysmenorrhea are needed to confirm its efficacy.
Other ingredients used for Dysmenorrhea
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)black cohosh
calcium
chamomile
chaste tree
dong quai root
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
evening primrose oil
fennel
fish oil
ginger
magnesium
motherwort
omega-3 fatty acids
parsley
passionflower
peppermint oil
phytocannabinoids
vitamin B6
vitamin E
wild yam
gastrodia
anise
peony
dioscorea
trichosanthes
shepherd's purse
Avens
Ambergris
Angelica
Achyranthes
Anamu
Albizia
Alchemilla
Aletris
Anserina
Aerva lanata
Anemone
Actaea spicata
Agrimonia pilosa
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Arisaema
Blue Cohosh
Blepharis
Boswellia
Bethroot
Boerhavia diffusa
Cohosh
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Cyathula
Corydalis
Didymocarpus
Dong Quai
Erythropalum scandens
Eupolyphaga sinensis
Euphorbia
Pennyroyal
Poppy
Other health conditions supported by Chastetree
AmenorrheaDysmenorrhea
Fibroids (uterine)
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type C
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S
Sex Drive (low)