Vitex reduces high prolactin levels, which are linked to breast pain. Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production and breast growth. High levels in the absence of pregnancy are frequently the result of hyperprolactinemia, a common endocrine disorder in women. High prolactin levels have also been linked to infertility issues. Vitex stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone while mildly inhibiting the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).
This indirectly increases progesterone production and increases the likelihood of achieving and maintaining a successful pregnancy. Vitex is a fantastic hormone balancer that adapts to the various needs of women.
Vitex has been shown to reduce polymenorrhea, relieve amenorrhea, and normalize heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) (too frequent periods). Vitex also reduces inflammation in the uterus and ovaries, making it an excellent choice for women who are prone to painful fibroids or cysts.
Vitex and infertility
Vitex aids in the restoration of overall hormonal balance by stimulating the hormones responsible for ovulation. Vitex helps to normalize progesterone-to-estrogen ratios and regulate pituitary gland function. Vitex has been shown in studies to effectively lengthen the luteal phase. It also aids the body’s own production of luteinizing hormone (which promotes ovulation) and progesterone levels during the luteal phase of the cycle. In one study, vitex helped normalize progesterone levels and increased the luteal phase from 5.4 days to 11.4 days. In addition, two double-blind studies show vitex extract increases a woman’s fertility and chances of successful conception.
Increase mother’s milk after childbirth
Vitex has been used by many women to increase milk supply while breastfeeding. According to some studies, Vitex inhibits prolactin production, which may lead to a reduction in breast milk supply. According to current research, Vitex appears to be safe to use while breastfeeding when taken in low doses.
Vitex and PMS
According to researchers, Vitex works by lowering prolactin levels. This also helps to rebalance other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, which aids in the reduction of PMS symptoms. In one study, vitex outperformed vitamin B6 in treating PMS symptoms like depression, anxiety, headaches, water retention, and constipation. When compared to women who took vitamin B6, 77% of those who took vitex reported relief from PMS. Furthermore, in clinical trials, vitex has been shown to relieve PMS-related or hyperprolactinemia-related breast pain.
Vitex and Hot Flashes
Vitex agnus castus, has been approved for the treatment of hot flashes, night sweats, headaches, heart palpitations, and vaginal dryness by Germany’s Commission E. Vitex appears to be a far more effective treatment for PMS-related complaints than any other.
How much Vitex should one take, how much, and for how long?
Hormonal imbalances can be improved by taking 60-90 drops of vitex extract once a day for the course of the month. Vitex, on the other hand, works slowly to normalize the body, unlike powerful hormone drugs. The best results are usually obtained after 6-12 cycles of vitex.
Is it safe for me to take Vitex while on progesterone cream?
Vitex can be used in conjunction with natural progesterone cream. However, if you are taking oral progesterone drugs, you should consult your doctor before using vitex because it is unknown how the herb will affect your treatment.
Is Vitex safe to use during IVF?
If you intend to have IVF, consult your doctor before using vitex. Many doctors will advise their patients to avoid using herbs during the IVF cycle. Because vitex has an effect on hormone levels, some researchers believe it could interfere with IVF or fertility drug treatments.
Is Vitex incompatible with prescription medications?
Vitex is quite safe when used in its whole form. However, because of its influence on hormonal balance, it is suggested to avoid concomitant use with birth control drugs or hormone replacement therapy.
What is the most effective way to use Vitex, and why?
Herbal tinctures or capsules are the preferred method of administration. These forms have proven to be the most effective for me. Tea does not appear to extract the medicine as well as tinctures or capsules do.