What is vitex supplement used for?
People use vitex agnus-castus for conditions related to the menstrual cycle such as breast pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is also used for bone fractures, infertility, menopause symptoms, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses. Clinical studies have found that after three cycles of Vitex, up to 93% of women report decreased PMS symptoms like depression, cravings, bloating, and breast pain . You may realize that the mood swings, headaches, or severe breast tenderness that once arrived before your period are greatly reduced or even gone.A review of 43 studies published from 1997 to 2016 concluded that Vitex agnus-castus is beneficial in treating infertility disorder in both men and women (as well as the treatment of PMS). The researchers hypothesized that chemical compounds in the plant influence the pituitary gland, which in turn decrease prolactin.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. For premenstrual syndrome, frequent or heavy periods, vitex can be used continuously for four to six months.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.
Is vitex good for hormonal imbalance?
Studies have shown that using vitex once in the morning over a period of several months helps normalize hormone balance and thus alleviate the symptoms of PMS. Preliminary and double-blind research has found that vitex relieves PMS symptoms. Vitex works gradually, so you’ll notice improvements after a couple of months. Signs that it’s kicking in include: Reduced PMS symptoms, like less bloating, mood swings, or breast tenderness. Improved fertility if you’re using it for luteal phase support.Because it works by promoting ovulation, vitex should be started early in the follicular phase and then continued until day 1 of the period. Taking regular breaks from vitex can prevent its effects from attenuating.
What does vitex do for female fertility?
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. A study in the Aromatic Medical Center showed that vitex agnus reduced bleeding. A research on 57 women with severe menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) who were treated with vitex agnus drops showed that 40 patients after the period of treatment had significantly been improved.
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). They are the main treatment for women who have fertility issues related to polycystic ovary syndrome and men and women who have fertility issues related to hormone imbalances. The most common fertility drugs are: Clomifene citrate (Clomid) Metformin.Clomiphene citrate. Taken by mouth, this drug stimulates ovulation by causing the pituitary gland to release more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulate the growth of an ovarian follicle containing an egg.
How quickly can vitex work?
Vitex is a slow-acting herb, so you won’t typically get immediate results. In general, if you take it daily (commonly in the morning) for 3–6 months, that’s when to expect clear signs of hormonal balance (such as more regular cycles or less PMS). Standard Dosage: To see noticeable results in reducing acne breakouts, the recommended dosage of Vitex is typically 700-800 mg daily. It’s crucial to follow this dosage consistently for 3 to 6 months. During this time, the body will adjust, and improvements in skin health should begin to appear.