Vitex (Chasteberry)

Also known as: vitex agnus-castus, chasteberry, chaste tree, monk pepper

Grade B — Moderate Evidenceherbalhormonal
20–40 mgOnce daily in the morning; standardized extract

Well-studied herbal remedy for PMS symptoms, particularly mood changes, breast tenderness, and irritability. Works by modulating dopamine and reducing prolactin. Evidence is solid for PMS but takes 2-3 cycles. Avoid with hormonal medications.

😊Mood🧘Stress & Anxiety
Last reviewed: 2026-03-12

Quick Facts

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

1

Interactions

2

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Interaction Warnings

Hormone therapies (HRT, oral contraceptives)Moderate

Affects dopaminergic and hormonal pathways — may interfere with hormonal medications.

Dopamine agonists/antagonistsModerate

Vitex has dopaminergic activity — may interact with Parkinson medications or antipsychotics.

Important Notes

  • Primarily studied in women for PMS and menstrual irregularities
  • Works via dopamine D2 receptor modulation — reduces prolactin levels
  • May take 2-3 menstrual cycles for full benefit
  • Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Not appropriate for hormone-sensitive cancers

Clinical Evidence (1 study)

Vitex agnus-castus for PMS: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Verkaik S et al. (2017) — Complement Ther Med

Vitex significantly improved overall PMS symptoms, particularly mood, irritability, and breast tenderness

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Vitex (Chasteberry).

Black Cohosh

Grade C

Traditional herbal remedy primarily used for menopausal symptoms including hot flashes and mood disturbances. Moderate evidence of efficacy. Rare but serious liver toxicity reports warrant caution. Avoid in hormone-sensitive conditions.

😊 Mood🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Evening Primrose Oil

Grade C

Rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid. Used for skin conditions, PMS, and inflammation. Evidence is moderate. Takes weeks to show effects. Avoid with seizure medications.

😊 Mood

Dong Quai

Grade C

Traditional Chinese Medicine herb for menstrual and menopausal support, almost always used in combination formulas. Weak evidence as a standalone supplement. Significant blood-thinning properties via coumarins. Photosensitizing. Better studied herbs exist for similar goals.

😊 Mood

Related Supplements

Black Cohosh

Grade C — Preliminary

Traditional herbal remedy primarily used for menopausal symptoms including hot flashes and mood disturbances. Moderate evidence of efficacy. Rare but serious liver toxicity reports warrant caution. Avoid in hormone-sensitive conditions.

Magnesium Glycinate

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Strong evidence for sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Most adults are deficient.

Ashwagandha

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.

Rhodiola Rosea

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Adaptogenic herb with strong evidence for reducing stress-related fatigue. Comparable to low-dose antidepressants for mild depression.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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