Evidence supporting the use of: Vitex Agnus-Castus
For the health condition: PMS Type A

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitex agnus-castus (also known as chaste tree or chasteberry) is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), particularly PMS Type A, which is characterized by anxiety, irritability, and mood swings attributed to suspected estrogen dominance and relative progesterone deficiency. Several clinical trials and systematic reviews have evaluated the efficacy of Vitex agnus-castus in reducing PMS symptoms. Notably, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ, 2001) demonstrated that Vitex extract significantly reduced overall PMS symptoms compared to placebo. A 2017 Cochrane review concluded that Vitex may be more effective than placebo for improving overall PMS symptoms, though the quality of evidence was rated as moderate and more high-quality studies are needed.

The proposed mechanism involves dopaminergic compounds in Vitex that modulate prolactin secretion, thereby indirectly increasing progesterone levels. Since PMS Type A is linked to a relative deficiency in progesterone, this mechanism provides a plausible scientific rationale for its use. However, while there is scientific support, the evidence is not unequivocal, and not all studies have shown benefit. Reported side effects are typically mild and rare.

In summary, there is moderate-quality scientific evidence supporting the use of Vitex agnus-castus for PMS Type A, but further research is warranted to confirm its efficacy and clarify the most responsive symptom profiles.

More about Vitex Agnus-Castus
More about PMS Type A

Products containing Vitex Agnus-Castus

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