Uterine fibroids are the most common benign gynecologic disease. Also known as leiomyomas or myomas of the uterus, they are tumors thought to respond to estrogen and progesterone levels.
Vitex, also known as chasteberry, chaste tree berry, or monk’s pepper, is mainly used as an herb to treat hormonal problems. It comes from the chaste tree and the belief in folk medicine that it could suppress libido.
As an alternative medicine, Vitex is used to treat issues such as breast pain, acne, fibrocystic breast disease, migraine, joint conditions, menopause, infertility, menstrual disorders and premenstrual symptoms. It is also used as protection against insect bites and certain types of cancer.
Many proponents believe that Vitex can shrink uterine fibroids that affect around 75% of women because of its ability to balance hormones. Vitex can potentially decrease prolactin hormone levels. It can also help balance estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle, thus stabilizing menstrual periods. It can also increase production of breast milk.
Vitex contains substances similar to sex hormones in the leaves and flowers. Some researchers from the University of Maryland Land Center think that Vitex and similar herbs may have effects similar to estrogen. Studies show that there is some benefit in treating premenstrual symptoms with Vitex, but the evidence isn’t firm.
There are only very few studies performed where Vitex is used. One study had 40 women with abnormally high prolactin levels who were given either 40 mg of Vitex or a pharmaceutical drug taken daily for eight weeks. It was seen that Vitex was as effective as the drug in reducing prolactin levels. 20 mg of Vitex used by 52 women with high prolactin also resulted in lower prolactin levels and prolonged menstrual phases. Because there is not enough scientific evidence to establish a recommended dose of vitex or chasteberry, the right dose may depend on various factors including age, medical conditions, and specific formulation or extract used.
There are only few scientific studies too about the relationship of Vitex and uterine fibroids. It has not been clinically tested for efficacy in treating fibroids, according to “Integrative Medicine: Principles for Practice,” published in April 2004. Thus, its exact effects aren’t known.
According to herbologist Susun S. Weed, using Vitex tincture often shrinks small fibroids within a time period from two months up to two years. The woman must consume 25-30 drops of Vitex tincture two to four times daily to be able to shrink them, since the results come from long-term use.
However, there are uncommon side effects when Vitex is used, such as upset stomach, nausea, itching, rash, headaches, hair loss, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, and weight gain. There are also concerns about vitex decreasing the effectiveness of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. One must not also use Vitex when pregnant too.
It is thus cautioned that, since Vitex can affect hormones and estrogen levels, one must consult the doctor first before using Vitex to treat a hormone-sensitive condition such as uterine fibroids and get personalized advice.
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