If you have been diagnosed with either hormonal imabalance or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), then most likely you are constantly on the lookout for safe and natural ways to deal with the symptoms. Usually we look out for supplements and natural therapies, but I have to emphasize that the best remedy of all is a PCOS diet full of the right nutrient-rich foods, the right exercise, cravings awareness, support and natural supplements with the right forms and doses of nutrients. One of those natural remedies is what most experts recommend, Vitex, or Chasteberry.
#1 What is Vitex and is it safe?
Vitex Agnus-Castus, also known as Vitex, Chaste Tree, or Chasteberry, is one such plant. It has significant benefits and has been used for centuries. No extreme adverse reactions have been reported before. It main purpose is to help regulate hormonal levels in women.
#2 How does Vitex works?
Vitex basically helps in the following[1]:
Increases lutenizing hormone(LH) and progesterone levels - this helps in restoring abnormal or shortened luteal phases and reduces the risk of miscarriage in women with a condition known as luteal phase defect.
Affects the pituitary gland and decreases prolactin secretion - this in turn influence the levels of other hormones, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen. This results in regulation of ovulation cycles and helps with hyperprolactinemia (elevated prolactin levels).
Prolactin is the primary hormone responsible for lactation and milk production in new mothers However, for moms-to-be, you will not want high levels of prolactin as it has an ovulation-inhibiting effect, so lesser prolactin = better ovulation.
Overall, Vitex can support endocrine system to produce more progesterone, reduce prolactin, increase lutenizing hormone and regulate ovulatory cycles. This sounds like a good deal for PCOS sufferers right? Before you say yes, you need to read the next section.
#3 Not every PCOS sufferers should take Vitex.
Vitex increases progesterone levels by increasing LH levels, and it reduces prolactin levels to enhance ovulatory cycles. This sounds great for PCOS sufferers, but there’s a problem. Most PCOS patients are already high in LH levels, therefore taking Vitex can actually worsen your hormonal balance. Therefore, if you know your LH level is already high, you should not take Vitex. However, if your LH levels are not elevated, then you are safe to take Vitex. How to determine LH levels? When we are diagnosed with PCOS by doctors, you have to undergo a hormonal panel blood test. You can actually see the values from there. You can schedule a video-consultation with me if you have other enquires.
#4 When should you take Vitex?
After being on birth control pill – Just not immediate. Vitex can help to let the body return to natural hormone production and cycling, but you should take Vitex only after 3 months off the pill. This is because you need to let your pituitary glands and ovaries to communicate and self regulate before you add in any other supplements.
Irregular Cycles in Perimenopause - Vitex can help to regulate your cycles and reduces perimenopause symptoms such as breast tenderness due to progesterone deficiency and estrogen dominance.[2]
Annovulatory cycles - when you have difficulties ovulating due to diminished levels of LH, Vitex is the best supplement for you.
Pre-menstrual Symptoms(PMS) - Vitex helps to relieve PMS such as breast pain, fluid retention and irritability. [3]
#5 When and how should you take Vitex
During morning - that is when your pituitary are the most reactive
During Follicular Phase - that is after your menses
Take a break every month - If your periods are regular, take five days off from the 1st day of your menses. If your periods are irregular, then take it 25 days and rest 5 days, then take another five days off from the 1st day of your period. This pulsed-dosing helps to prevent attenuation of the herb’s effect on the pituitary.
Stop Vitex when you are on IVF drugs - this will cause another problem known as ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome.
Never take Vitex on a long term basis - Vitex is most effective during the first three to six months of use. Do allow time for the effect to show up. After six months, do allow a month break or two, and return to the herb if you felt better.
#6 Where can you buy VItex supplement online?
a) Gaia Herbs Vitex Berry, Vegan Liquid Capsules, 60 Count (Pack of 2)
I highly recommend Gaia brand supplements. Every ingredient in every product is screened and validated in the Gaia Purity Lab. In this same lab, they also have a Liquid Phyto-Cap technology, engineered to support the body's absorption of concentrated plant extracts.
Pros: It worked with some users.
I had amenorrhea for eight months last year and was diagnosed with PCOS. The doctor gave me progestin to induce my period but it made me feel absolutely AWFUL! I needed to find another way!!
I did some research and found out that vitex can help with progesterone levels in women with PCOS so I thought I'd give it a try. What I do is take I capsule once a day for ten days before my period is supposed to start and then stop. And for the last six months I've gotten my period consistently a day or two after!
Nothing happened until I added in the vitex but one should note I also took other supplements which may have had an effect on this as well: ashwaghanda, holy basil, vitamin d3, vitamin c, kelp (as a safe source of iodine), omega 3, and probiotics (SBO).
Hope this helps someone and wishing the best for your health! ~Turwiathiel
Cons: You might have to take 4 to fulfil one day's requirement.
wish each pill was more potent, i have to take 4 capsules to get to my requirements ~Maritza Spitler
You can get it at Amazon here.
b) Vitex Chasteberry Fruit Extract 900mg 200 Caps (Non-GMO & Gluten Free)
- 100% natural - NON-GMO, No caffeine, gluten free, no stimulants or artificial stuff - Ingredient with clinical study support - Made in the USA, in FDA inspected and GMP certified facilities - 3rd party lab tested and verified for purity and safety
Pros: capsules are completely tasteless and odorless making it extremely easy to use. They are delivered in an easy to swallow capsule form for women’s health.
If you’re hormones are out of whack this product is awesome! I did some research after purchasing and it’s recommended that you give it 3-5 months to start working. I’m right around the 3 month mark and my skin is clear for the first time in 3 years. I was having severe adult acne on my cheeks and around my chin and jaw line. I still get my regular monthly breakout but other than that my skin has been awesome! It’s also recommended that’s you take it between 7 and 8 in the morning so that’s what I have been doing. Also this is the first review I’ve ever written so I’m pretty satisfied. ~Kristen Wilkerson
Cons: Might have allergic reaction
I'm giving it one star because I had an allergic reaction (tongue swelling and dry mouth) but I realize that isn't the norm. ~Texas
Hope I have clarified your doubts regarding Vitex and PCOS relationship! Do let me know in the comments below if you have other questions that I can possibly answer!
[1] Vitex agnus castus extract in the treatment of luteal phase defects due to latent hyperprolactinemia. Results of a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind study. Milewicz A, Gejdel E, Sworen H, Sienkiewicz K, Jedrzejak J, Teucher T, Schmitz H. Arzneimittelforschung. 1993 Jul;43(7):752-6.
[2] Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste-Tree/Berry) in the treatment of menopause-related complaints. van Die MD, Burger HG, Teede HJ, Bone KM. J Altern Complement Med. 2009 Aug;15(8):853-62. doi: 10.1089/acm.2008.0447.
[3] Vitex agnus-castus extracts for female reproductive disorders: a systematic review of clinical trials. van Die MD, Burger HG, Teede HJ, Bone KM. Planta Med. 2013 May;79(7):562-75. doi: 10.1055/s-0032-1327831. Epub 2012 Nov 7.