Evidence supporting the use of: Vitex (unspecified)
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

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

Vitex, commonly known as chaste tree or Vitex agnus-castus, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean, for various menstrual disorders, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Historical and ethnobotanical records indicate that Vitex was used by herbalists to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual pain, and address premenstrual symptoms. The hypothesized mechanism is thought to involve modulation of pituitary hormones, particularly through dopaminergic effects that influence prolactin secretion, thereby impacting the menstrual cycle and related symptoms.

While there is a reasonable body of scientific investigation into Vitex for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and mastalgia (breast pain), high-quality clinical evidence for its efficacy specifically in treating dysmenorrhea is limited. Some small and preliminary clinical studies and reviews have noted potential benefit, but results are mixed and not consistently statistically significant. Most authoritative reviews and clinical guidelines do not recommend Vitex as a primary or evidence-based treatment for dysmenorrhea due to insufficient direct research. Thus, its use for this condition remains primarily rooted in traditional practice rather than strong scientific validation.

In summary, the evidence supporting Vitex for dysmenorrhea stems mainly from its traditional use, with limited and inconclusive scientific support specifically for this indication.

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