Evidence supporting the use of: Chaste tree
For the health condition: Menstrual Irregularity

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as chasteberry, has a long history of use in traditional medicine for managing menstrual irregularities. Modern scientific research has provided support for this traditional use. The active components in chaste tree are believed to influence the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, particularly by modulating prolactin levels via dopamine receptor activity. Elevated prolactin can disrupt normal menstrual cycles, and by helping to normalize prolactin levels, chaste tree may restore regular ovulatory cycles.

Numerous clinical trials and systematic reviews have examined the efficacy of chaste tree for menstrual irregularities, including conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), luteal phase defects, and oligomenorrhea. A 2017 review in the journal Phytomedicine concluded that Vitex agnus-castus extracts are more effective than placebo in improving menstrual regularity and alleviating PMS symptoms. Another meta-analysis in 2015 found that chaste tree was beneficial in reducing symptoms of premenstrual disorders and helped regulate the menstrual cycle in women with irregular periods. Importantly, these studies generally report that chaste tree is well tolerated, with mild side effects.

While more research is needed to clarify the optimal dosing and long-term safety, the current body of evidence provides moderate to strong support for the use of chaste tree in treating menstrual irregularity. Its use is both scientifically validated and supported by centuries of traditional use.

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