# Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/vitex-agnus-castus
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Vitex agnus-castus, Chasteberry, Monk's Pepper, Abraham's Balm, Chaste Tree Berry, Agnus Castus, Wild Pepper, Hemp Tree

## Overview

Vitex agnus-castus contains diterpenes and flavonoids that modulate [dopamine](/ingredients/condition/mood) receptors to reduce prolactin secretion. This hormonal rebalancing effect alleviates PMS symptoms and regulates menstrual cycles.

## Health Benefits

• Reduces premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms with moderate effect size (SMD: 0.67) based on meta-analysis of 6 RCTs with 718 participants
• Alleviates cyclic breast pain and tenderness, proven effective in 17 RCTs according to systematic review
• Normalizes menstrual cycles by reducing prolactin levels and increasing progesterone in women with latent hyperprolactinemia (double-blind RCT, n=52)
• Improves bleeding intensity (83.4%), frequency (79.2%), and menstrual pain (85.2%) based on real-world data
• Reduces menopausal symptoms including anxiety and vasomotor dysfunction compared to placebo (RCT evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Vitex agnus-castus contains diterpenes (particularly casticin and agnuside) that bind to [dopamine](/ingredients/condition/mood) D2 receptors in the anterior pituitary gland. This binding inhibits prolactin release, which helps normalize the luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone ratio. The resulting [hormonal balance](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) reduces estrogen dominance and supports progesterone production during the luteal phase.

## Clinical Summary

A meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled trials with 718 participants demonstrated moderate effectiveness for PMS symptom reduction (SMD: 0.67). Systematic review of 17 RCTs confirms significant reduction in cyclic breast pain and tenderness. Most studies used standardized extracts providing 20-40mg daily for 3-6 menstrual cycles. Evidence quality is moderate, with some studies lacking proper blinding protocols.

## Nutritional Profile

Vitex agnus-castus is a medicinal herb rather than a nutritional food source, so macronutrient and caloric content are not clinically relevant; however, its bioactive phytochemical profile is well-characterized. Key bioactive compounds include: iridoid glycosides (agnuside at approximately 0.4–0.6% dry weight of fruit extract, and aucubin), which are considered primary marker compounds used for standardization of commercial extracts; flavonoids including casticin (0.01–0.1% dry weight), vitexin, isovitexin, orientin, and luteolin, which contribute to [dopamine](/ingredients/condition/mood)rgic and antiestrogenic activity; diterpenes including rotundifuran, vitexilactone, and clerodadienols, present at approximately 0.02–0.08% in fruit extracts, which demonstrate dopamine D2 receptor agonist activity linked to prolactin suppression; essential oils (0.5–1.0% in dried fruit) comprising 1,8-cineole, limonene, sabinene, and beta-caryophyllene; and alkaloids including viticin in trace amounts. The standardized extract Ze 440 (used in clinical trials) is typically standardized to 0.6% agnuside. Bioavailability data is limited but flavonoids such as casticin show moderate oral absorption with hepatic first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). No significant conventional macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrate), vitamins, or dietary minerals are present at nutritionally meaningful concentrations, as the herb is consumed in extract form at doses of 20–40 mg dried extract per day rather than as a food.

## Dosage & Preparation

Standardized extract: 20-40 mg daily of dried fruit extract for 3 months. Specific products studied include Prefemin® (efficacy within one cycle), Strotan® capsules (20 mg daily), and Cyclodynon®/Mastodynon®. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Common side effects include nausea, headache, gastrointestinal upset, and menstrual irregularities during initial weeks of use. May interact with [dopamine](/ingredients/condition/mood) agonists, antipsychotic medications, and hormonal contraceptives by altering prolactin levels. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to hormonal effects. May interfere with in vitro fertilization treatments due to prolactin suppression.

## Scientific Research

Vitex has been evaluated in 12 randomized controlled trials for female reproductive disorders, with a meta-analysis of 6 RCTs (n=718) demonstrating moderate effectiveness for PMS. Clinical trials show efficacy within one menstrual cycle, with 91% responder rate by the third cycle in Japanese patients (n=69). A systematic review of 25 studies (17 RCTs) confirmed effectiveness for cyclic mastalgia, with Vitex proving noninferior to conventional treatments.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Vitex agnus-castus is described as a popular herbal treatment in Anglo-American and European practice, predominantly used for female reproductive conditions. The common name 'chaste tree' reflects its traditional association with women's health, though specific historical uses are not detailed in the available research.

## Synergistic Combinations

Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Evening Primrose Oil, Dong Quai, Black Cohosh

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How long does vitex take to work for PMS

Most clinical studies show PMS symptom improvement after 3 menstrual cycles (approximately 3 months) of consistent daily use. Some women may notice changes in the second cycle, but full hormonal rebalancing typically requires 3-6 months of continuous supplementation.

### What is the proper dosage of vitex agnus castus

Clinical studies typically use 20-40mg daily of standardized extract (0.5% agnuside) taken as a single morning dose. Dried herb preparations range from 500-1000mg daily, while tinctures commonly use 2-4ml daily of 1:5 preparation.

### Can vitex help with irregular periods

Yes, vitex can help regulate irregular menstrual cycles by reducing elevated prolactin levels and supporting progesterone production. Clinical studies show cycle normalization typically occurs within 3-6 months, particularly for cycles longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days.

### Does vitex agnus castus affect birth control pills

Vitex may potentially interfere with hormonal contraceptives by affecting prolactin and dopamine pathways. While direct interactions are not well-documented, the herb's hormonal effects could theoretically reduce contraceptive effectiveness, so consultation with healthcare providers is recommended.

### Is vitex safe during breastfeeding

No, vitex is contraindicated during breastfeeding because it suppresses prolactin secretion, which is essential for milk production. The herb's antiprolactinergic effects can significantly reduce breast milk supply and should be avoided until weaning is complete.

### What does clinical research show about vitex for cyclic breast pain and tenderness?

Vitex agnus-castus has been evaluated in 17 randomized controlled trials for cyclic breast pain and tenderness, with a systematic review confirming its effectiveness for this indication. The herb works by modulating prolactin levels, which are often elevated in women experiencing cyclical mastalgia. This makes it one of the most well-researched herbal treatments for hormone-related breast symptoms.

### Who benefits most from vitex supplementation?

Women with moderate PMS symptoms, irregular menstrual cycles, and cyclic breast pain are the primary beneficiaries of vitex supplementation. The herb is particularly effective for women with latent hyperprolactinemia, a condition where elevated prolactin disrupts progesterone production and menstrual regularity. Clinical evidence suggests the strongest benefits occur in women with documented hormonal imbalances rather than those seeking general wellness support.

### How does vitex compare to other herbal remedies for PMS?

Vitex agnus-castus demonstrates a moderate effect size (SMD: 0.67) for PMS symptom reduction based on meta-analysis of 6 rigorous randomized controlled trials involving 718 participants, establishing it as one of the most evidence-backed herbal options for this condition. Unlike some PMS remedies that address individual symptoms, vitex targets the underlying hormonal dysregulation by normalizing prolactin and progesterone levels. Its dual action on both PMS and cyclic breast pain distinguishes it from single-symptom herbal interventions.

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