Does vitex have any side effects?
When taken by mouth: Vitex agnus-castus fruit extract is likely safe when used for up to 3 months. Side effects might include upset stomach, fatigue, and trouble sleeping. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if vitex agnus-castus seeds are safe or what the side effects might be. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Vitex agnus-castus is possibly unsafe. Vitex agnus-castus might make it more difficult to get pregnant and might harm the fetus. Don’t use it if you are trying to get pregnant, or are pregnant or breast-feeding.
What does vitex do to the female body?
Frequently used to relieve PMS and menopausal symptoms, it can also improve female fertility, balance hormones, and increase the production of milk during lactation. Vitex is also known to relieve headaches, repel certain insects, and act as an antibacterial & antifungal treatment. If a woman is taking Vitex, she can tell if it is working by monitoring her menstrual cycle and PMS symptoms. Vitex typically takes a few menstrual cycles to start having an effect, so it is important to be patient and consistent with taking the supplement.It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking vitex, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications. Vitex may interact with some drugs, including oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapies, and dopamine antagonists.In one trial, 48 women (ages 23 to 39) who were diagnosed with infertility took vitex once daily for three months. Seven women became pregnant during the trial, and 25 women experienced normalized progesterone levels—which may increase the chances for pregnancy.Vitex is typically taken once in the morning with liquid for several months consecutively. With its emphasis on long-term balancing of a woman’s hormonal system, vitex is not a fast-acting herb and is unlikely to give immediate relief to the discomfort associated with PMS.
What does Vitex do to the uterus?
In European herbalism and medicine, vitex extracts are used for uterine fibroid cysts. They help boost breastmilk supply in new mothers. The herb has a long history in balancing hormones. Vitex is one of the primary herbs to be considered for stimulating the ovary and encouraging ovulation, thus increasing progesterone secretion. It should be given in a 3 mL daily dose of a 1:3 extract.For women, vitex (chasteberry), red clover and other herbs traditionally used to help restore hormonal balance are combined with the same vitamins and minerals found in a prenatal vitamin. The combination offers a comprehensive fertility supplement for women.
What to avoid while taking vitex?
Vitex. While delicious, it’s important to note that Vitex should not be taken with certain medications such as birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or fertility drugs such as clomiphene (Clomid). Most women have the kind of PCOS that is insulin-resistant and comes with high LH, and they should avoid Vitex. If you have PCOS with normal LH levels and high prolactin levels, you might consider using Vitex.