Abstract
Vitex agnus-castus L. (chaste tree; chasteberry) is a popular herbal treatment, predominantly used for
a range of female reproductive conditions in Anglo-American and European practice.
The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence for the efficacy
and safety of Vitex extracts from randomised, controlled trials investigating womenʼs health.
Eight databases were searched using Latin and common names for Vitex and phytotherapeutic preparations of the herb as a sole agent, together with filters
for randomised, controlled trials or clinical trials. Methodological quality was assessed
according to the Cochrane risk of bias and Jadad scales, as well as the proposed elaboration
of CONSORT for reporting trials on herbal interventions.
Thirteen randomised, controlled trials were identified and twelve are included in
this review, of which eight investigated premenstrual syndrome, two premenstrual dysphoric
disorder, and two latent hyperprolactinaemia. For premenstrual syndrome, seven of
eight trials found Vitex extracts to be superior to placebo (5 of 6 studies), pyridoxine (1), and magnesium
oxide (1). In premenstrual dysphoric disorder, one study reported Vitex to be equivalent to fluoxetine, while in the other, fluoxetine outperformed Vitex. In latent hyperprolactinaemia, one trial reported it to be superior to placebo for
reducing TRH-stimulated prolactin secretion, normalising a shortened luteal phase,
increasing mid-luteal progesterone and 17β-oestradiol levels, while the other found Vitex comparable to bromocriptine for reducing serum prolactin levels and ameliorating
cyclic mastalgia. Adverse events with Vitex were mild and generally infrequent. The methodological quality of the included studies
varied, but was generally moderate-to-high. Limitations include small sample sizes
in some studies, heterogeneity of conditions being treated, and a range of reference
treatments.
Despite some methodological limitations, the results from randomised, controlled trials
to date suggest benefits for Vitex extracts in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder
and latent hyperprolactinaemia. Further research is recommended, and greater transparency
in reporting for future trials.
Key words
Vitex agnus-castus
- Verbenaceae - premenstrual - mastalgia - hyperprolactinaemia - systematic review
