Synopsis

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

Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used for centuries to address various women’s health concerns, particularly those related to the menstrual cycle. Modern scientific research has provided some support for its effects on the body’s hormonal systems, especially in relation to progesterone. Chastetree is believed to act primarily by modulating the pituitary gland, leading to altered secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin. This, in turn, may indirectly support the body’s production of progesterone.

Several clinical trials and systematic reviews have evaluated the efficacy of chastetree for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), cyclic mastalgia, and menstrual irregularities—conditions often associated with luteal phase defects or insufficient progesterone. Some studies have found that chastetree extract can reduce PMS symptoms and normalize menstrual cycles, likely by its effect on prolactin and, secondarily, on the progesterone-dominated phase of the menstrual cycle. However, direct evidence showing a significant increase in serum progesterone levels is limited and inconsistent. Most positive findings focus on symptom relief rather than direct hormonal measurement.

Overall, while historical use is robust and there is moderate scientific evidence supporting a role for chastetree in modulating hormonal balance related to progesterone, the data is not conclusive or universally strong. The ingredient is used in practice to support the progesterone body system, but more high-quality, large-scale studies are needed to establish clear efficacy and mechanism.

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