Vitex, also known as Chaste Tree, is a herb primarily used to help regulate a women’s hormonal cycle.  The fruit of this plant is used in herbal extracts and it helps shift the ratio of estrogen to progesterone in favor of progesterone.  Chaste tree also acts on the body to help increase the release of luteinizing hormone (LH).  The overall effect of this plant is to regulate the menstrual cycle.  When women have lower progesterone levels they may experience infertility, heavy bleeding with menses, lack of periods or irregular or too frequent periods.  With its effects on normalizing LH levels, chaste tree can help alleviate these complaints.  When using this herb for amenorrhea or infertility, the herb has to be used long term.

This herb may combined with herbs such as black cohosh, lenonurus, and be used in women with menopausal bleeding irregularities or in women transitioning through peri-menopause with symptoms such a hot flashes and night sweats.

Vitex is often the go-to remedy for women with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), it is helpful for PMS symptoms including mood swings, forgetfulness, bloating or fatigue.

As you can see, Vitex is a great natural remedy for all kinds of complaints related to female hormonal issues.  When combined with other herbs that help support the female reproductive tract, Vitex is an extremely effect remedy with no side effects.  This herb is generally well tolerated and not recommended for use during pregnancy.