Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, originates from traditional medicine practices and is primarily used for reproductive health concerns. It has been traditionally employed to support menstrual regularity and alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in some cultures. Scientific evidence suggests that vitex may improve oxidative stress markers, insulin resistance, and clinical signs of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) when compared to a placebo. The bioactive compounds, including paeoniflorin and isoorientin, have shown potential in inhibiting glucocorticoid receptor signaling in various cell lines. Additionally, studies indicate that vitex can reduce serum TNF-α, IL-6, and AMH levels in women with PCOS. Safety profiles are generally favorable, with no major issues recorded; however, further research is needed to fully understand its effects. There are currently no known significant drug interactions reported for vitex agnus-castus.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Vitex agnus-castus significantly improved oxidative stress markers, insulin resistance, and clinical signs in women with PCOS compared to placebo.
- Paeoniflorin and isoorientin from white peony root and chasteberry inhibited glucocorticoid receptor signaling in various cell lines.
- The study found that the antioxidant activity, bioactive compounds, fatty acids, and mineral contents varied among different parts of the Vitex agnus-castus plant.
- Vitex agnus-castus supplementation significantly reduced serum TNF-α, IL-6, and AMH levels compared to the placebo in women with PCOS.
Frequently asked questions
What is Vitex agnus-castus?
Vitex agnus-castus (Vitex agnus-castus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Vitex agnus-castus?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Vitex agnus-castus; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: Vitex agnus-castus significantly improved oxidative stress markers, insulin resistance, and clinical signs in women with PCOS compared to placebo.
How strong is the evidence for Vitex agnus-castus?
The strongest finding for Vitex agnus-castus carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Vitex agnus-castus safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Vitex agnus-castus in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Vitex agnus-castus interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Vitex agnus-castus in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Vitex agnus-castus?
Vitex agnus-castus is also known as: Витекс священный.
Is Vitex agnus-castus a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 The Effect of Vitex Agnus - Castus Plant on Some Markers of Oxidative Stress, Lipid Profile and Insulin Resistance in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial Study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The effect of the plant parts (leaf, flower, stem and seed) on antioxidant activity, bioactive compounds, fatty acids and mineral contents of chaste (Vitex agnus-castus L.) plant. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The effects of Vitex agnus-castus supplementation on inflammatory markers in women with PCOS: a randomized, double-blind, placebocontrolled trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterization of Isoorientin and Paeoniflorin as Botanical Glucocorticoid Receptor Modulators from White Peony and Chasteberry. literature abstract metadata