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Chaste
Tree Therapy for PMDD
Philosophy
 The
use of the agnus castus plant (Vitex agnus castus) dates back to the
days of the ancient Greeks. In the past it has been used to suppress the
libido, aid in external wound healing, help with complaints of the spleen,
aid in child birth, and stimulate lactation. While there have been no
scientific studies regarding any of these claims, its effects on symptoms of
PMDD have been examined. The fruits of this chaste tree, as it is also
known, contain iridoids and flavonoids. The flowers and leaves of this
plant have been shown to contain some compounds similar to the human sex
hormones resulting in effects that are similar to those of the corpus luteum.
The mechanism of action of the agnus castus plant are uncertain but several
theories exist. It is postulated that it causes prolactin to be secreted
in response to stress via dopamine signaling without directly affecting
leutinizing hormone or follicle-stimulating hormone. The compounds in the
plant are also believed to bind to opioid receptors, ß endorphins, and neuroactive
flavonoids which may play a role in reducing PMDD symptoms.
Scientific Evidence
While the chaste tree has been around for a long time
for the treatment of PMDD symptoms, there has been no systematic evaluation
of its efficacy until recently. In a 1993 double blind, randomized
controlled trial comparing the use of chaste tree and placebo over three
menstrual cycles by Turner et al7, dramatic improvements were
seen during the first cycle in the treatment group with return to baseline
over the next two cycles. This pattern also occurred in the placebo group,
suggesting that it was not a specific effect of the plant. In a 1997 study
by Lauritzen8 comparing the effects of chaste tree and Vitamin B6
on PMDD symptoms, chaste tree was not found to have any additional benefit.
More recently, a 2001 randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial
done by Schellenberg et al9, 178 women were given either active
agnus castus (fruit extract ZE 440) 20 mg tablet per day or a placebo that
resembled it over the course of three menstrual cycles. The women who
received that agnus castus had a significant improvement in symptoms
(irritability, mood alteration, anger, headache, and breast fullness)
compared to those in the placebo group. However, the rate of women
continuing with the study was significantly higher in the treated group,
pointing to a possible bias in reported results.
Contraindications
The agnus castus should not be taken during pregnancy,
while lactating, or with hormone replacement therapy.
Adverse Reactions
There are no commonly reported side effects due to the
agnus castus plant. Some rare reactions noted areagastrointestinal
distress, acne, multiple abscesses, intermenstrual bleeding, rashes, and
itching. Pain or tenderness in the breasts should be evaluated by a
physician immediately.
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