Synopsis

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

Agnuside is an iridoid glycoside found predominantly in the fruit of Vitex agnus-castus (chaste tree). Traditionally, extracts of this plant have been used in various cultures to support female reproductive health, particularly for menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The traditional use is based on the belief that Vitex agnus-castus can influence the endocrine system, specifically the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, by modulating the release of hormones such as prolactin. While some studies suggest that Vitex extracts may have dopaminergic effects that could indirectly influence hypothalamic function, the specific role of agnuside in supporting the hypothalamus itself is not well defined.

Scientific research on agnuside’s direct effects on the hypothalamus is limited. Most available studies focus on the whole plant extract rather than isolated agnuside, and they often examine outcomes such as prolactin levels or menstrual symptoms rather than direct hypothalamic function. Thus, while there is a basis in traditional herbal medicine for using Vitex (and by extension, its constituents like agnuside) to support hormonal balance, the evidence specifically linking agnuside to hypothalamic support is weak and mostly anecdotal. More rigorous scientific studies are needed to clarify its mechanism of action and efficacy for this purpose.

More about Agnuside
More about Hypothalamus

Other ingredients that support Hypothalamus

Other body systems supported by Agnuside

Products containing Agnuside