Evidence supporting the use of: Vitex negundo
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitex negundo, commonly known as the Chinese chaste tree or Nirgundi, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. In these traditions, it is used for a variety of gynecological conditions, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). The leaves, roots, and seeds are utilized in various forms such as decoctions, oils, or powders. Ancient texts and ethnobotanical surveys cite its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties, which are believed to help alleviate menstrual pain and related symptoms.
However, while there are preclinical studies (in vitro and animal research) suggesting anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Vitex negundo extracts, direct scientific evidence from human clinical trials specifically investigating its efficacy in treating dysmenorrhea is lacking. Most of the support for its use comes from traditional knowledge, case reports, and anecdotal evidence rather than robust clinical validation. Some phytochemical studies have identified flavonoids and iridoid glycosides in Vitex negundo, which might contribute to its purported effects, but these findings have not yet been translated into well-designed clinical studies for dysmenorrhea.
In summary, the use of Vitex negundo for dysmenorrhea is primarily based on traditional practice, with limited scientific evidence currently available to support its effectiveness for this specific condition.
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 Vitex negundo
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Afterbirth Pain
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Anemia
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Anxiety
Arthritis
Asthma
Backache
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Canker Sores
Carbuncles
Chest Pain
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Cuts
Depression
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dysmenorrhea
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Emphysema
Fever
Fungal Infections
Gastritis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)