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Vitex (Chaste Tree)

supporting women's reproductive health and menstrual cycle regulation

herb
Human trial evidenceTraditional useInteraction riskNeeds more research

Berry extract for PMS, cycle regulation, and progesterone support.

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as Chaste Tree or Chasteberry, is a shrub native to the Mediterranean region and Asia. Its berries have been traditionally used for centuries, particularly in women's health. It is often explored for its potential role in addressing symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, such as those experienced during the menstrual cycle. While widely used, much of the understanding of its effects comes from traditional practices and preliminary research, with a need for more robust scientific investigation to fully establish its efficacy and mechanisms.

Quick answer

What it is: Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as Chaste Tree or Chasteberry, is a shrub native to the Mediterranean region and Asia.

May support:PMS, Perimenopause, Menopause, PCOS

Evidence Summary

The current understanding of Vitex's effects is largely based on traditional use and a limited number of preliminary studies, including some clinical trials. However, a comprehensive body of high-quality, large-scale, placebo-controlled trials is needed to provide definitive evidence for its efficacy and to establish clear guidelines for its use. The absence of recent PubMed studies in the provided context highlights a gap in readily available, up-to-date scientific validation.

Last reviewed · Jun 2026

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Commonly Combined With

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Why It Works

Dopaminergic action lowers prolactin.

How it works in more detail

The primary proposed mechanism of Vitex involves its interaction with dopamine D2 receptors. Compounds within Vitex are believed to act as dopaminergic agonists, which can lead to a reduction in prolactin secretion from the pituitary gland. Elevated prolactin levels are sometimes associated with menstrual irregularities and breast tenderness. By modulating prolactin, Vitex may indirectly influence the balance of other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, potentially contributing to the regulation of the menstrual cycle. However, the exact cascade of hormonal effects and the specific active compounds responsible are still subjects of ongoing research.

How to use

Always consult a qualified clinician.

Editorial guidance

Suggested dosage
20–40 mg/day standardized
With or without food
Empty stomach, 30 min before meals

To optimize absorption of active compounds

Research dosage range
Research dosages have varied widely, with some studies using 20 mg to 40 mg of standardized extract daily, while others have explored higher doses or different preparations. A consistent, widely accepted research dosage range is not yet firmly established.
Typical onset
Effects of Vitex are generally not immediate and may take several weeks to months of consistent use to become noticeable, typically around 1 to 3 menstrual cycles.
Dosing citations
Typical forms
Capsule, Tablet, Tincture, Liquid extract, Tea
Quality markers
Look for products standardized to specific active compounds, such as agnusides or casticin, to ensure consistent potency. Reputable brands often provide third-party testing for purity and absence of contaminants. Organic certification can also be a marker of quality.
Medication interactions
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Dopamine agonists (e.g., for Parkinson's disease)
  • Dopamine antagonists (e.g., some antipsychotics)
  • Fertility drugs
Avoid if
  • Pregnant
  • Breastfeeding
  • Undergoing IVF treatment
  • Taking hormone replacement therapy
  • Diagnosed with hormone-sensitive cancers
  • Taking dopamine agonists or antagonists

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Suggested dosage

20–40 mg/day standardized
Sources:[1]Meta-analysis[2]Systematic review[3]Systematic review

Active medicinal compounds

Key active compounds in Vitex include flavonoids (e.g., casticin, isovitexin), iridoid glycosides (e.g., agnuside, aucubin), and essential oils. These compounds are believed to contribute to its observed pharmacological activities, particularly its dopaminergic effects.

Traditional use

Vitex has a long history of traditional use, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was associated with chastity and used for various gynecological conditions. In medieval Europe, it was used to suppress libido in monks. More commonly, it has been traditionally employed to address menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, and to support fertility in women. It was also used for menopausal symptoms and to support lactation.

Safety

Safety warnings

Avoid with hormonal contraceptives.

Avoid if

  • Pregnant
  • Breastfeeding
  • Undergoing IVF treatment
  • Taking hormone replacement therapy
  • Diagnosed with hormone-sensitive cancers
  • Taking dopamine agonists or antagonists

Medication interactions

  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Dopamine agonists (e.g., for Parkinson's disease)
  • Dopamine antagonists (e.g., some antipsychotics)
  • Fertility drugs

Reported side effects

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Gastrointestinal upset
  • Skin rash
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Acne
Sources:[1]Meta-analysis[2]Systematic review[3]Systematic review

Evidence ecosystem

Scientific literature, clinical guidance, government sources, ongoing research, traditional use, and lived experience — grouped by source type and quality.

Overall grade

The current understanding of Vitex's effects is largely based on traditional use and a limited number of preliminary studies, including some clinical trials. However, a comprehensive body of high-quality, large-scale, placebo-controlled trials is needed to provide definitive evidence for its efficacy and to establish clear guidelines for its use. The absence of recent PubMed studies in the provided context highlights a gap in readily available, up-to-date scientific validation.

Filter by source type

Observational Studies(1)

Cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional human studies.

Moderate Quality

  • Gynecology: select topics.

    Sidani M, Campbell J · Primary care · 2002

    Menopause, premenstrual syndrome, dysmenorrhea, female fertility, and mastalgia are common problems not easily treated by conventional medicine. Women often seek alternative therapies to help address these conditions. Some evidence points to the efficacy of black cohosh, exercise, and possibly Kava and St. John's wort, in the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Clinical trials indicate that symptoms of premenstrual syndrome may be alleviated with calcium, magnesium, vitamin E. Thiamine, omega-3 fatty acids, the Japanese herbal concoction, TSS, and calcium have proved useful in treating women with dysmenorrhea. Symptoms of mastalgia may be attenuated by evening primrose oil, chaste tree and flaxseed oil may be helpful.

    Observational StudyPubMedLow Quality

Clinical Trial Registries(1)

Registered ongoing or completed trials (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Moderate Quality

Limitations: Key limitations include a lack of recent, high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials. Many existing studies may have methodological flaws, small sample sizes, or lack appropriate control groups. The variability in Vitex preparations and dosages across studies also makes it challenging to compare results and draw firm conclusions. There is also a need for more research into the specific active compounds and their precise mechanisms of action.

This page is educational. Statements use phrases like "may support" and "has been studied for"because no remedy here is approved to cure, treat, or reverse any condition. Discussion happens on the ailment pages — community statistics here are derived from those reports. Always consult a qualified clinician.

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