Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese Chastetree
For the health condition: PMS (general)

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Synopsis

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

Chinese Chastetree (Vitex negundo), sometimes grouped with its Mediterranean cousin Vitex agnus-castus (chaste tree or chasteberry), has a long history in traditional medicine. However, most clinical research relating to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has focused on Vitex agnus-castus, not specifically on Vitex negundo. Studies on Vitex agnus-castus have shown it can reduce PMS symptoms, likely by modulating prolactin levels through dopaminergic activity, which may help with symptoms such as breast tenderness, irritability, and mood swings. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses support the efficacy of Vitex agnus-castus for PMS, and it is included in some clinical guidelines, especially in Europe, as a non-pharmaceutical option for PMS management.

In contrast, direct scientific evidence for Vitex negundo (Chinese Chastetree) for PMS is limited. While both species share some phytochemical constituents, there is insufficient clinical research specifically on Vitex negundo for PMS. Its use is sometimes extrapolated from the better-studied Vitex agnus-castus. Therefore, while the genus Vitex has some scientific validation for PMS (mainly due to V. agnus-castus), the evidence for Chinese Chastetree itself is less robust. Thus, the evidence rating is moderate, reflecting a scientific basis mostly by association rather than direct study.

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