What is Vitex?
- Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MBA
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Health Benefits
Bioactive compounds present in Vitex plant matrix, such as iridoids, diterpenoids, ecdysteroids, and flavonoids, are reported to possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
One of the most common uses of Vitex is to support hormonal balance, especially in women. It is believed to influence the pituitary gland, which regulates the body’s balance of estrogen and progesterone. This can be particularly helpful for women experiencing hormonal imbalances. Some women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder, may use Vitex to manage symptoms related to irregular periods and hormonal imbalances. Preliminary studies suggest that it might be helpful for symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and breast pain related to the menstrual cycle, but the evidence is not conclusive. (NCCIH)
Vitex is often used to help regulate irregular menstrual cycles. Some studies suggest that Vitex may alleviate symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings, irritability, breast tenderness, and bloating. It is thought to work by modulating hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Vitex may have a positive impact on mood and stress levels, possibly by influencing neurotransmitters in the brain.
It’s important to note that while many people find Vitex beneficial, individual responses can vary. It’s advised to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Vitex into your routine. It may not be safe for women with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer.
The most well-recognized and researched species of Vitex:
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Vitex negundo L
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Vitex agnus-castus L
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Vitex trifolia L
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Vitex rotundifolia
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Vitex cymosa Bertero ex Spreng
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Vitex peduncularis Wall. Ex Schauer
Side Effects
The most frequent adverse events are nausea, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, menstrual disorders, acne, pruritus, and erythematous rash. No drug interactions were reported. Use of Vitex agnus castus L should be avoided during pregnancy or lactation. (Daniele) Scientific evidence for its effectiveness is still evolving, but studies continue to investigate the efficacy of Vitex.
Sources
Daniele C, Thompson Coon J, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Vitex agnus castus: a systematic review of adverse events. Drug Saf. 2005;28(4):319-32. doi: 10.2165/00002018-200528040-00004. PMID: 15783241.
Kamal N, Mio Asni NS, Rozlan INA, Mohd Azmi MAH, Mazlan NW, Mediani A, Baharum SN, Latip J, Assaw S, Edrada-Ebel RA. Traditional Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Biological Properties, and Health Applications of Vitex sp. Plants (Basel). 2022 Jul 26;11(15):1944. doi: 10.3390/plants11151944. PMID: 35893648; PMCID: PMC9370779.
NCCIH, “Chasteberry.” NCCIH, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/chasteberry.
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Vitex Dietary Supplements
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Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MB
Dr. Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk is a renowned life scientist with expertise in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. A Harvard Medical School faculty member since 2005, she has led research on diabetes and cardiovascular diseases while mentoring students and postdocs.
As a sought-after speaker, Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk shares her insights at events like Supply Side West and Women in Nutraceuticals (WIN), and has presented Canomiks’ work at top conferences. She is featured in publications such as Nutraceuticals World and Nutrition Industry Executive. Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk actively supports the nutraceuticals industry, serving as Co-Chair of the WIN Science Committee, and as a board member for Launch Minnesota and the Jeremiah Program.
She holds a PhD in Pharmacology from Tulane University, an MBA from MIT Sloan, and a BSc from the University of Mumbai. Her leadership continues to influence Canomiks and the wellness industry
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What is Vitex?
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