Evidence supporting the use of: Five-leaf Chastetree
For the health condition: Amenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Five-leaf Chastetree (Vitex negundo) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medicine, in South and Southeast Asia. It is commonly employed for a variety of gynecological conditions, including amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation). Traditional practitioners have used extracts or preparations made from the leaves, seeds, or roots to help regulate menstrual cycles and address hormonal imbalances believed to cause amenorrhea. The rationale is often based on empirical observations and the plant’s reputed “emmenagogue” (menstruation-promoting) properties in these medical systems.
However, scientific validation for these claims is limited. While Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste tree), a related species, has more substantial research supporting its effects on menstrual disorders, Vitex negundo itself has much less direct clinical evidence. Some preclinical studies suggest possible hormonal or anti-inflammatory activity, but robust human data—especially specific to amenorrhea—are lacking. Most references to Vitex negundo for amenorrhea are rooted in ethnobotanical surveys or traditional pharmacopeias, rather than in controlled scientific trials.
In summary, the use of Five-leaf Chastetree for amenorrhea is primarily justified by tradition, with limited scientific corroboration. The evidence supporting its efficacy in this context would be best described as low to moderate, largely due to a lack of modern clinical studies.
Other ingredients used for Amenorrhea
ashwagandhachaste tree
chasteberry
dong quai root
fennel
fenugreek
ginger
ginseng
licorice root
maca
motherwort
rhodiola
vitamin B6
vitamin D
wild yam
shen-chu
anise
blessed thistle
dioscorea
shepherd's purse
Angelica
Achyranthes
Alchemilla
Aletris
Aerva lanata
Anemone
Asteracea
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Blue Cohosh
Bethroot
Ba Ji Tian
Cohosh
Clary sage
Cnidium
Cyathula
Chrysophanics
Dong Quai
Estrogen
False Unicorn Root
Iris
Pennyroyal