Vitex Chaste Tree Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Vitex agnus-castus L., Chaste tree, Chasteberry, Vitex agnus-castus
Overview
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as Chaste tree or Chasteberry, is a medicinal plant traditionally utilized for addressing female reproductive health concerns. It is particularly valued for its efficacy in alleviating symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), cyclic mastalgia (breast pain), and hyperprolactinemia (elevated prolactin levels). While various forms of Vitex extracts exist, such as standardized ethanolic extracts (e.g., Ze 440, BNO 1095), this specific research focuses on the glycerite liquid extract, which uses glycerin as a solvent. The primary application of Vitex is to reduce PMS symptoms, regulate menstrual cycles, and mitigate issues stemming from hormonal imbalances. The scientific understanding of Vitex is moderately mature, supported by numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, though the quality and standardization of extracts vary across studies.
Benefits
Vitex agnus-castus offers several evidence-based benefits for female reproductive health. Its primary effect is a significant reduction in PMS symptom severity; a meta-analysis indicated that women using Vitex extracts were approximately 2.57 times more likely to experience symptom remission compared to placebo (95% CI 1.52-4.35). It effectively improves both psychological symptoms like mood swings and irritability, and physical symptoms such as breast tenderness. Vitex also reduces hyperprolactinemia, which can alleviate luteal phase defects and cyclic mastalgia. While some evidence suggests benefits for PMDD, it may be less effective than pharmaceutical interventions like fluoxetine for severe cases. Benefits for bloating, fluid retention, and food cravings are inconsistent. Vitex is most beneficial for women experiencing PMS, PMDD, luteal phase defects, and cyclic mastalgia. Effects typically become noticeable after several weeks of consistent daily use, often requiring 2-3 menstrual cycles.
How it works
Vitex agnus-castus primarily exerts its effects by interacting with dopaminergic pathways. It acts as a dopamine D2 receptor agonist, which leads to a reduction in prolactin secretion from the pituitary gland. This decrease in prolactin helps to normalize hormonal imbalances often associated with PMS and hyperprolactinemia. By modulating prolactin levels, Vitex indirectly influences the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which can affect progesterone and estrogen levels. While dopamine D2 receptor agonism is a key mechanism, other phytochemicals present in the extract may contribute synergistically to its overall therapeutic effects. The specific phytochemical profile and bioavailability can vary between different extract forms, such as glycerite versus ethanolic extracts, though direct comparative pharmacokinetic data for glycerite extracts are limited.
Side effects
Vitex agnus-castus is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of side effects reported in clinical trials. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, are typically mild and include gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, and rarely, skin reactions. Less common side effects (1-5%) may include rare allergic reactions or mild changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Serious adverse events are very rare, with no consistent reports. While no significant drug interactions are extensively documented, caution is advised when used concurrently with dopamine agonists or antagonists due to its dopaminergic activity. Vitex is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data in these populations. Individuals in special populations, such as adolescents or women with hormone-sensitive cancers, should consult a healthcare provider before using Vitex.
Dosage
Most clinical trials supporting the efficacy of Vitex have utilized standardized extracts, typically at doses ranging from 20 mg to 40 mg per day (e.g., Ze 440). For glycerite liquid extracts, specific dosing guidelines are less defined but generally aim to provide an equivalent amount of active compounds, adjusted for the extract's concentration. The minimum effective dose appears to be around 20 mg/day of a standardized extract for PMS symptom relief. Higher doses have not consistently demonstrated increased efficacy and may potentially lead to more side effects. Vitex is typically taken daily throughout the menstrual cycle, or sometimes specifically during the luteal phase, depending on the individual's needs and practitioner's recommendation. The absorption and bioavailability of Vitex may be influenced by the extract's solvent, and while glycerite extracts may have a different phytochemical profile than ethanolic extracts, specific absorption data for glycerite forms are not readily available.
FAQs
Is Vitex glycerite extract as effective as other forms?
Most clinical evidence supports standardized ethanolic extracts. While glycerite extracts are presumed effective, direct comparative randomized controlled trials are lacking, so their equivalent efficacy is not definitively proven.
How long until effects are seen?
Benefits typically become noticeable after consistent daily use for 2-3 menstrual cycles. It is not an immediate-acting supplement for symptom relief.
Is it safe long-term?
Vitex is generally considered safe for long-term use, but the duration of most clinical studies is limited. Continued use should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
Can it be used with hormonal contraceptives?
Data on the interaction between Vitex and hormonal contraceptives are limited. Caution is advised, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before combining them.
Does it cause hormonal side effects?
Serious hormonal disruptions are rare. Mild changes in menstrual bleeding patterns have been reported, but overall, it has a favorable safety profile regarding hormonal effects.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31780016/ – This meta-analysis of three randomized controlled trials found that Vitex agnus-castus extracts significantly reduced PMS symptoms, with a relative risk of symptom remission of 2.57 compared to placebo. The study highlights the efficacy of Vitex for PMS relief based on high-quality evidence.
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/html/10.1055/s-0032-1327831 – This systematic review of 12 RCTs concluded that Vitex is superior to placebo, pyridoxine, and magnesium for PMS symptom relief. It also found efficacy for hyperprolactinemia and cyclic mastalgia, noting fewer side effects compared to bromocriptine, indicating a favorable safety profile.
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0032-1327831.pdf – This PDF version of the systematic review provides detailed methodology and results, reinforcing the findings that Vitex is effective for PMS, hyperprolactinemia, and cyclic mastalgia. It also discusses the heterogeneity in study quality and extract types across the reviewed trials.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10702745/ – This randomized placebo-controlled trial investigated Vitex's effect on hyperprolactinemia and luteal phase defects. It found that Vitex effectively reduces prolactin levels and improves associated symptoms, supporting its mechanism of action via dopaminergic pathways.