What does Vitex do to the body?
Vitex agnus-castus, or chasteberry, may boost fertility and reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause. It may also repel certain insects. Most other uses are currently unsupported by science. It may cause stomach discomfort and other mild side effects, but it’s considered safe for most people.
What are the side effects of taking vitex?
When taken by mouth: Vitex agnus-castus fruit extract is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken appropriately for up to 3 months. Uncommon side effects include upset stomach, nausea, rash, headaches, acne, trouble sleeping, and weight gain.
Who should not take chasteberry?
Chasteberry can affect levels of hormones that play a key role in pregnancy, breastfeeding, menstruation, and even some breast cancers. You should not take chasteberry if you: Are pregnant or breastfeeding. Have breast cancer.
Can Vitex bring my period back?
Studies have shown vitex extremely helpful in bringing back the menstrual cycle in women with absent periods due to eating disorders and lack of menstruation due to breastfeeding.
Does vitex lower estrogen?
Vitex also seems to lower estrogen levels and raise progesterone levels. It blocks the follicle stimulating hormone and raises the luteinizing hormone, which changes the estrogen and progesterone. The effects are dose-dependent. This means how well it works might depend on how much you take.
How much Vitex should I take to boost fertility?
There is research backing Vitex for restoring fertility.
How does Vitex work to balance hormones?
Vitex doesn’t have hormonal properties by itself, but it does help balance your hormones. It appears to support the pituitary gland function more optimally. The pituitary gland controls when and how much hormone is released in your body. Too much of one hormone can stop other hormones from doing their intended job.
What are the most common Vitex side effects?
Nausea
Does Vitex work for your hormones?
While it doesn’t appear to contain any active hormones itself, vitex acts on the hormones via its effect on the pituitary gland (and specifically on the production of luteinizing hormone , or LH). Vitex also keeps prolactin secretion in check (more on that below) and improves both estrogen and progesterone levels .