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Herbal Products pp 245–258Cite as

Vitex agnus-castus

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Abstract

Vitex agnuscastus is an herb that has been used for hundreds of years in Europe for female reproductive system disorders, is well-tolerated, and has established efficacy in helping with some symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome. The major active constituents of V. agnuscastus are iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, and essential oils. Its dominant pharmacological effect on the body is inhibition of prolactin secretion. V. agnuscastus is available in a variety of dosage forms and its use is gaining popularity in the United States. Although it has a low adverse-effect profile, women should avoid ingesting the herb while trying to become pregnant, during pregnancy, or while nursing.

Key Words

  • Chasteberry
  • flavonoids
  • flavones
  • essential fatty acids
  • female reproductive system disorders
  • estrogenic herbs

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Authors
  1. Margaret B. Artz
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

    Timothy S. Tracy PhD

  2. SafetyCall International, PLLC, Clinical Services, Bloomington, MN

    Richard L. Kingston PharmD

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© 2007 Humana Press Inc.

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Artz, M.B. (2007). Vitex agnus-castus. In: Tracy, T.S., Kingston, R.L. (eds) Herbal Products. Forensic Science and Medicine. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-383-7_16

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