Evidence supporting the use of: Vitex Agnus-Castus
For the body system: Pituitary (anterior)

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

Synopsis

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

Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chaste tree berry, has a long history of traditional use for supporting hormonal health, especially in relation to the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. Its primary mechanism is thought to be its dopaminergic effect on the pituitary gland, particularly the anterior pituitary, where it can reduce the secretion of prolactin. This is significant because elevated prolactin can disrupt the balance of other hormones regulated by the pituitary, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). By modulating prolactin levels, Vitex is traditionally believed to help restore normal menstrual cycles and support fertility. Most of the evidence for Vitex’s effects on the anterior pituitary comes from traditional European herbal medicine and several small clinical trials, which suggest that Vitex can be helpful in alleviating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and certain menstrual disorders. However, while these studies provide some support, high-quality, large-scale clinical trials specifically examining its direct action on the anterior pituitary are limited. The use of Vitex for pituitary support is therefore rooted more in tradition and plausible physiological mechanisms than in robust scientific validation. Nevertheless, its historical use and some clinical evidence justify its continued application for hormonal balance via pituitary modulation.

More about Vitex Agnus-Castus
More about Pituitary (anterior)

Other ingredients that support Pituitary (anterior)

alfalfa
ashwagandha
bovine
l-arginine
hypothalamus
Agnuside
D-Aspartic Acid

Products containing Vitex Agnus-Castus

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