Evidence supporting the use of: Chastetree
For the health condition: Menopause

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Synopsis

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

Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as chasteberry, has a long history of traditional use for various women's health concerns, particularly in Europe. More recently, scientific interest has focused on its potential for alleviating symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings. The proposed mechanism involves modulation of the pituitary gland and effects on prolactin and possibly other hormones involved in menstrual regulation. However, the bulk of clinical research on chastetree has addressed premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and mastalgia (breast pain), rather than menopause specifically.

Some small clinical trials and observational studies have included menopausal women and suggest modest benefit, especially for symptoms like hot flashes and mood disturbances. However, the evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and often the use of combination herbal formulas, making it difficult to isolate the effects of chastetree. Systematic reviews generally conclude that while chastetree is likely safe and may help some menopausal symptoms, there is insufficient high-quality evidence to recommend it as a primary therapy for menopause.

In summary, chastetree's use for menopause is supported by both traditional practice and some preliminary scientific evidence, but robust, well-controlled studies are lacking. Its evidence rating is therefore modest.

More about Chastetree
More about Menopause

Products containing Chastetree

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.