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

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as chasteberry, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly for women’s reproductive health. It has been used since ancient times to address menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and symptoms related to hormonal imbalances. In the context of menopause, chaste tree is traditionally believed to help alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. This traditional use is based on the herb’s reputed ability to modulate the activity of the pituitary gland and indirectly influence levels of reproductive hormones, especially prolactin. However, scientific evidence supporting the use of chaste tree specifically for menopausal symptoms is limited. Most modern research has focused on its effectiveness for PMS and cyclical breast pain, with significantly less attention given to menopause. Some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest possible benefits for menopause-related symptoms, but systematic reviews conclude that there is insufficient high-quality evidence to firmly recommend chaste tree for this purpose. Larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm any potential benefits in menopausal women. In summary, the use of chaste tree for menopause is primarily justified by traditional medicine practices rather than robust scientific validation. Women considering its use should consult healthcare professionals, especially since individual responses and potential interactions with other medications can vary.

More about chaste tree
More about Menopause