Description

Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Chastetree, also known as Vitex agnus-castus, is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used for centuries for gynaecological and menstrual concerns. It has traditionally been valued as a female tonic, hormone regulator and uterine tonic, particularly for supporting healthy menstrual and reproductive function.

Chastetree has been called the “most archetypal” of all female reproductive herbs. Traditionally, it has been used for menstrual irregularities, premenstrual complaints, hormonal balance and lactation. Research into chastetree has focused particularly on its effects on menstrual disorders, premenstrual symptoms, cyclic breast pain, hyperprolactinaemia and fertility-related concerns.

What Chastetree May Support

Chastetree has traditionally been used to support:

• Healthy menstrual cycle regulation, including irregular menstrual cycles
• Women’s reproductive wellbeing, including fertility and luteal phase support
• Relief of symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause
• Healthy hormonal balance and hormonally induced acne
• Cyclical breast pain and benign breast disorders
• Ovarian and uterine wellbeing, including ovarian cysts, fibroids and endometriosis
• Healthy prolactin balance and conditions associated with latent hyperprolactinaemia
• Re-establishing the menstrual cycle following use of the contraceptive pill
• Restless leg syndrome and sleep maintenance
• Postnatal wellbeing
• Lactation support when used in low doses

Modern research has investigated Chastetree for its hormone-regulating and dopaminergic effects, particularly in relation to prolactin secretion and menstrual function. Clinical research has explored its potential role in PMS, cyclic breast pain, hyperprolactinaemia, menstrual irregularities and fertility-related concerns. Research has also investigated its effects in areas including insomnia and restless leg syndrome. While research has shown promising findings in several areas, the evidence varies between conditions and different chastetree preparations.

Key Constituents

Chastetree contains several naturally occurring compounds, including essential oils, iridoid glycosides, diterpenes, flavonoids, terpenoids, neolignans, phenolic compounds, glycerides and essential fatty acids. Notable constituents include agnuside, aucubin, vitexilactone, rotundifuran, apigenin, casticin, orientin, isovitexin and linoleic acid.

Important Information

Chastetree is traditionally considered a female reproductive herb with hormone-regulating properties. Its effects are thought to involve the pituitary and prolactin secretion, although its mode of action is not yet completely understood.

Chastetree is not traditionally recommended during pregnancy. Some herbalists use it during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy in cases of difficult conception, but its safety during pregnancy cannot be confirmed.

People with tumours sensitive to oestrogen or progesterone should avoid using chastetree until safety can be established. Its ability to reduce prolactin levels may also inhibit medical investigations and potentially mask the diagnosis and proper treatment of prolactinoma.

Use moderately during breastfeeding, as chastetree may suppress prolactin and potentially negatively affect milk production, particularly during early lactation. Lactation support should only involve low doses.

People taking medicines with contraceptive, hormonal and/or dopaminergic actions should consult their health professional before using chastetree. This includes oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy and medicines affecting dopamine activity. The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration has also reported a case of unintended pregnancy following concurrent use of chastetree and a progesterone-only oral contraceptive, and notes that the potential for an interaction is recognised internationally.

If you take prescription medicines, particularly hormonal, contraceptive or dopaminergic medicines, or have an existing medical condition, seek advice from a qualified healthcare practitioner before use.

For more detailed information about Chastetree, including its traditional uses, constituents, research and clinical considerations, please see the full herbal monograph.

Read More: Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus)_Monograph

Read More: Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus)_Summary