Chaste Tree
Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, originates from traditional medicine practices and is primarily used for hormonal balance and menstrual irregularities. Although its specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it has been explored in modern research with promising results. Scientific evidence suggests that Vitex agnus-castus may improve oxidative stress markers, insulin resistance, and clinical signs associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) when compared to placebo. Additionally, studies have shown that compounds such as paeoniflorin and isoorientin from white peony root and chasteberry can inhibit glucocorticoid receptor signaling in various cell lines. The antioxidant activity, bioactive compounds, fatty acids, and mineral contents of the plant vary among different parts, indicating potential differences in efficacy depending on the source. While no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its effects and applications.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Vitex agnus-castus significantly improved oxidative stress markers, insulin resistance, and clinical signs in women with PCOS compared to placebo.
- Paeoniflorin and isoorientin from white peony root and chasteberry inhibited glucocorticoid receptor signaling in various cell lines.
- The study found that the antioxidant activity, bioactive compounds, fatty acids, and mineral contents varied among different parts of the Vitex agnus-castus plant.
- Vitex agnus-castus supplementation significantly reduced serum TNF-α, IL-6, and AMH levels compared to the placebo in women with PCOS.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chaste Tree?
Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Chaste Tree?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Chaste Tree; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: Vitex agnus-castus significantly improved oxidative stress markers, insulin resistance, and clinical signs in women with PCOS compared to placebo.
How strong is the evidence for Chaste Tree?
The strongest finding for Chaste Tree carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Chaste Tree safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Chaste Tree in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Chaste Tree interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Chaste Tree in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Chaste Tree?
Chaste Tree is also known as: Прутняк обыкновенный, Arbre au poivre.
Is Chaste Tree a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 The Effect of Vitex Agnus - Castus Plant on Some Markers of Oxidative Stress, Lipid Profile and Insulin Resistance in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial Study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The effect of the plant parts (leaf, flower, stem and seed) on antioxidant activity, bioactive compounds, fatty acids and mineral contents of chaste (Vitex agnus-castus L.) plant. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The effects of Vitex agnus-castus supplementation on inflammatory markers in women with PCOS: a randomized, double-blind, placebocontrolled trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterization of Isoorientin and Paeoniflorin as Botanical Glucocorticoid Receptor Modulators from White Peony and Chasteberry. literature abstract metadata