Evidence supporting the use of: Chastetree
For the body system: Pituitary

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus) is primarily used to support hormonal balance, particularly in women, due to its effects on the pituitary gland. The pituitary is a master endocrine gland that regulates several hormones, including those involved in reproductive function. Scientific research suggests that compounds in chastetree may influence the secretion of prolactin and luteinizing hormone (LH) by acting on dopamine receptors in the anterior pituitary. Several clinical studies have shown that Vitex agnus-castus can help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and cyclic mastalgia, likely through modulation of pituitary hormone output. A 2012 review in the journal Planta Medica concluded that there is moderate evidence for the efficacy of Vitex extracts in treating PMS, with improvement related to decreased prolactin levels. However, the evidence is not uniformly strong, and most studies focus on reproductive symptoms rather than direct measurement of pituitary hormone dynamics. While the use of chastetree for pituitary support is grounded in both traditional herbal practice and supported by some scientific studies, more robust research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanisms and broader effects on pituitary function.

More about Chastetree
More about Pituitary

Products containing Chastetree

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.