Vitex agnus- castus, commonly known as “vitex,” also called “chaste tree,” is a plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. It is native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia, but now also grows in various parts of the United States. Vitex has been traditionally used for the management of hormonal imbalances, especially those related to the female reproductive
system. (1). Some key uses of Vitex include the reduction and resolution of symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, and irregular menstrual cycles. Vitex is also believed to exert its effects on the hormonal system by influencing the activity of the pituitary gland, balancing progesterone and estrogen production, and in turn, regulating the balance of the reproductive organs (2). Vitex may also aid in counteracting the effects of xenoestrogens (3). Xenoestrogens are estrogen-mimicking compounds that enter the body from the external environment. They originate from environmental pollutants, pesticides, and plastics (4).
Some key uses of Vitex include:
• Pre-menstrual disorders (PMS)
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Menopausal symptoms
• Acne
• Breast tenderness
Overall, vitex is a plant with a long-standing history of healing properties, which have been exceptionally useful for conditions involving the female reproductive system.
By Dr. Anthony Salzarulo, DC, PT and Rachel E. Kessler
1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitex
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/vitex-agnus-castus#:~:text=Vitex%20agnus%20castus%2C%20also%20known%20as%20chaste%20tree%2C%20has
%20traditionally,an%20increase%20in%20luteinizing%20hormone.
3. https://awakenlife.ca/xenoestrogens-affect-hormones/
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/xenoestrogen#:~:text=Xenoestrogens%20are
%20%E2%80%9Cforeign%E2%80%9D%20estrogens%2C,%2C%20chemicals%2C%20and%20water%20systems.