Smooth Chastetree
Vitex glabrata
Vitex glabrata, a plant traditionally used in some indigenous practices but with no specific traditional uses documented, has shown promising results in various scientific studies. Its ethanol extract demonstrated antiproliferative activity against skin keratinocytes and high inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, though the evidence is not as strong compared to other selected plants. Additionally, a study found that Vitex agnus-castus (which shares similar components with V. glabrata) significantly increased total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, total thiol, and HDL in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The ethanolic extract from the stem of Vitex glabrata also showed significant anthelmintic activity against Gastrothylax crumenifer, comparable to albendazole. Safety concerns are minimal; no major issues or drug interactions have been recorded in existing literature.
- 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 glabrata showed promising skin keratinocyte antiproliferative activity, but its ethanol extract did not exhibit as significant activity as other selected plants.
- Vitex agnus-castus significantly increased total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, total thiol, and HDL in women with PCOS.
- The study found that rutin from Terminalia catappa showed significant anthelmintic activity against Gastrothylax crumenifer, comparable to albendazole.
- The ethanolic extract from the stem of Vitex glabrata showed high inhibitory activity against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Smooth Chastetree?
Smooth Chastetree (Vitex glabrata) 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 Smooth Chastetree?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Smooth Chastetree; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: Vitex glabrata showed promising skin keratinocyte antiproliferative activity, but its ethanol extract did not exhibit as significant activity as other selected plants.
How strong is the evidence for Smooth Chastetree?
The strongest finding for Smooth Chastetree carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Smooth Chastetree safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Smooth Chastetree in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Smooth Chastetree interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Smooth Chastetree in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Smooth Chastetree?
Smooth Chastetree is also known as: Grain bouchon.
Is Smooth Chastetree 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 Assessment of in vitro antipsoriatic activity of selected Indian medicinal plants. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of In Vitro α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Potentials of 14 Medicinal Plants Constituted in Thai Folk Antidiabetic Formularies. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The anthelmintic potentials of medicinal plant extracts and an isolated compound (rutin, C27H30O16) from Terminalia catappa L. against Gastrothylax crumenifer. literature abstract metadata
- 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