Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese Chastetree
For the body system: Pituitary
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Chinese Chastetree (Vitex negundo) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, but its primary historical applications relate to treating inflammation, headaches, colds, and rheumatism rather than direct support of the pituitary gland. However, the broader Vitex genus, especially Vitex agnus-castus (chasteberry), is more widely known in Western herbal medicine for its effects on hormone regulation and its purported action on the pituitary gland, particularly in modulating prolactin secretion and supporting menstrual health. In traditional practices, the use of Vitex species is sometimes based on empirical observations that these plants can influence reproductive or endocrine functions, which indirectly suggests a connection with pituitary activity since the pituitary gland plays a critical role in hormone regulation.
Despite these traditional uses, there is limited direct scientific evidence linking Vitex negundo (Chinese Chastetree) specifically to pituitary support. Most available research focuses on Vitex agnus-castus and its dopaminergic effects, which impact pituitary hormone secretion. Therefore, the justification for using Chinese Chastetree to support the pituitary is mostly traditional and not strongly supported by modern clinical studies. The evidence rating reflects the reliance on traditional use with some extrapolation from closely related species, rather than robust, species-specific scientific validation.
Other body systems supported by Chinese Chastetree
EstrogenFemale Reproductive System
Ovaries
Pituitary
Progesterone
Reproductive System
Uterus