Vitex agnus-castus
Feb 17, 2025
Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus is a shrub that is taken for menstrual cycle irregularities, premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and menopause.
Mechanism of Action:
Vitex agnus-castus effects many hormones that regulate female reproductive cycles. One proposed mechanism is that it causes a decrease in prolactin, which reverses suppression of LH and increases progesterone.
Dosage:
20-40 mg has been safely used for up to 8 weeks to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder. 4 mg has been taken three times daily for three menstrual cycles to treat premenstrual syndrome.
Evidence:
Studies have shown that Vitex agnus-castus is as effective as Prozac for com-batting premenstrual dysphoric disorder. It is also more beneficial in treating the other symptoms associated like breast tenderness, swelling, cramps, and food cravings. Vitex agnus-castus can also lead to a relic of premenstrual syn-drome symptoms like breast pain or tenderness as well as mood swings and headache.
Precautions:
Some people can have a change in menstrual flow when starting Vitex agnus-castus. More research needs to be conducted to determine the after profile of this supplement in breastfeeding and pregnant people.
Vitex agnus-castus should be avoided in people with hormone-sensitive conditions like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or breast cancer. Vitex agnus-castus can affect Parkinson's therapy due to similarities of the chemical components that are used to treat Parkinson's.
Interactions:
Since Vitex agnus-castus alters the levels of hormones, it should be used cautiously for people who are also taking contraceptive and estrogen-based
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