Synopsis

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

Vitex (commonly referring to Vitex agnus-castus, or chaste tree) has a longstanding history in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Europe, for supporting reproductive health and addressing infertility, especially in women. Traditional use dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was believed to influence hormonal balance and regulate the menstrual cycle. The plant’s fruit and extracts were used to address menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and symptoms of menopause, with some accounts describing its use for promoting fertility.

Modern scientific research is limited but suggests that Vitex may act by influencing the pituitary gland, possibly leading to increased luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and modulation of prolactin, which can be beneficial in cases of luteal phase defects or hyperprolactinemia-related infertility. However, well-controlled clinical trials specifically examining infertility outcomes are scarce and generally of low quality or small scale. Most scientific validation focuses on menstrual regulation or PMS, not directly on infertility. Thus, while there is a strong tradition of use for infertility and some plausible biological mechanisms, robust scientific evidence is lacking, and the primary justification remains traditional.

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