We use essential cookies (authentication, your saved goals/stack) by default. With your permission we'll also enable privacy-respecting analytics (Vercel Web Analytics, anonymous load-time metrics) and error-replay diagnostics (Sentry — DOM snapshots only when an error fires) so we can fix bugs faster. Learn more
Vitex agnus-castus (Chasteberry)
Leading herb for women's hormonal balance, with strong evidence for PMS relief and menstrual cycle regulation.
What the evidence says
Vitex appears to help in 11 of 12 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 1998–2026 with a typical study size of 46 participants.
Based on 38 studies · 6 meta-analyses · 17 RCTs · 3,335 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
See full supplement plans that include Vitex.
Vitex has an evidence score of 7.5/10 — strong evidence based on 38 indexed studies, including 6 meta-analyses. Leading herb for women's hormonal balance, with strong evidence for PMS relief and menstrual cycle regulation.
The commonly studied dose of Vitex is 20-40mg extract (standardized to 0.5% agnuside). Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 30mg extract, with a minimum effective dose near 20mg extract. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Vitex is in the morning. Taking it with food is preferred. Vitex agnus-castus (chasteberry) acts on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis by binding dopamine D2 receptors in the anterior pituitary, reducing prolactin secretion.
Shatavari
Likely helpsPremier women's tonic in Ayurveda that supports reproductive hormones, fertility, and lactation — the female counterpart to ashwagandha.
Dong Quai
Likely helpsPromotes blood circulation and menstrual regularity — a cornerstone of Chinese medicine for women's health for 2,000+ years.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 36 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Vitex, also known as chasteberry, is the most well-researched herb for women's hormonal health. It works on the pituitary gland to help regulate the balance between estrogen and progesterone. Clinical evidence supports its use for PMS symptoms, irregular cycles, and luteal phase defects. A first-line natural option for many hormonal complaints.
Acts on dopamine receptors in the pituitary
Helps balance estrogen and progesterone
How Vitex works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
Tap node to isolate • Pinch to zoom • Tap edge for research
20-40mg extract (standardized to 0.5% agnuside)
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized extract (0.5% agnuside or 0.6% aucubin) | Recommended |
| 💧Dried berry tincture | Alternative |
| 🧪Whole berry powder | Alternative |
Standardized extracts are most studied. BNO 1095 and Ze 440 are well-researched extract types.
Minimum: 12 weeks
Optimal: 24 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Take continuously throughout the cycle, not just during luteal phase. Effects build over 2-3 cycles.
Based on meta-analysis of RCTs showing large effect size. Most effective for irritability, mood swings, and breast tenderness. Standardized extracts (Ze 440, BNO 1095) had strongest evidence. High heterogeneity noted between studies.
Significant reduction in PMS symptoms
More regular menstrual cycles
Less mastalgia/breast pain
Discontinue once pregnancy confirmed
May reduce milk supply due to prolactin effects; use with caution
Often used to support fertility; discontinue upon pregnancy
May reduce effectiveness
May interact due to dopaminergic activity
May alter hormone levels
Tip: Take with food if needed
Tip: Usually resolves
Tip: Discontinue if rash occurs
Tip: Normal during adjustment; give 2-3 cycles
Both help with PMS symptoms
Comprehensive PMS support
B6 supports hormone metabolism
Enhanced hormonal balance
Both support women's hormonal health
Comprehensive PMS and hormonal support
Both support women's hormonal health
Enhanced reproductive support
Vitex modulates LH/FSH ratios and progesterone, complementing spearmint's anti-androgenic effects in PCOS
Enhanced hormonal regulation addressing multiple axes of the reproductive endocrine system
Vitex is generally safe at recommended doses, with a few precautions worth noting. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset, headache, skin reactions. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Pregnancy (discontinue when pregnant); Hormone-sensitive conditions (breast cancer, etc.); IVF or fertility treatments (may interfere).
Ashwagandha
Likely helpsReduces cortisol and anxiety while improving sleep quality and physical recovery in stressed adults.
May interfere with protocols