(Vitex) Agnus Castus and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome is a common condition that most women face when they come of menstrual age. PMS symptoms can vary depending on the person. Some women might not feel any negative side effects during the time coming up to their period. However, as shown in the statistics below, PMS is quite common.

– Up to 85% of women experience some form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) during their reproductive years.

– Women who have a family history of PMS are more likely to experience it themselves.

– PMS is more common in women who have irregular periods or have high levels of stress.

– The severity of PMS symptoms varies widely among women, with some experiencing mild symptoms and others experiencing severe, debilitating symptoms which can also be known as Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

– The most common symptoms of PMS include mood changes, bloating, breast tenderness, and painful cramps.

What is Agnus Castus (vitex)

Vitex agnus castus, also known as chasteberry, is a traditional medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to help with a variety of health conditions, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS is a common health issue that affects most women during the time leading up to their menstrual cycle. Symptoms of PMS can include mood swings, irritability, bloating, breast tenderness, and physical discomfort.

There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of chasteberry for PMS, but some studies have shown that it may be effective in reducing symptoms. Chasteberry is thought to work by regulating the levels of hormones in the body, specifically the hormones involved in the menstrual cycle. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with PMS.

Using chasteberry for premenstrual syndrome

One study conducted on 70 women with PMS found that those who took chasteberry supplements experienced significant improvements in PMS symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and breast tenderness compared to those who took a placebo. Another study of 105 women found that chasteberry was effective in reducing PMS symptoms such as bloating, irritability, and breast tenderness.

For example, chasteberry has been shown to increase the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and decrease the levels of prolactin in the body. LH is responsible for stimulating the ovaries to produce estrogen and progesterone, while prolactin is a hormone that can cause breast tenderness and other PMS symptoms. By regulating the levels of these hormones, chasteberry may indeed help to reduce PMS symptoms.

In addition to its potential benefits for PMS, chasteberry has also been shown to have potential skin benefits. Some research suggests that chasteberry may help to fight acne by regulating the production of oil in the skin and reducing inflammation. It may also have antibacterial properties, which could help to prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Despite its potential benefits, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of chasteberry for PMS and other health conditions.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to a woman’s menstrual period. These symptoms can include bloating, fatigue, irritability, mood swings, and cramps, among others. Some women may find relief from PMS symptoms by trying natural supplements, such as illumis – PMS Formula.

There are several reasons why natural supplements may be beneficial for managing PMS symptoms:

– Natural supplements are often perceived as being safer and having fewer side effects than some over-the-counter drugs. This can be especially appealing to women who feel like they would like to try alternative solutions that are much more natural and have little to no negative side-effects on the body. Illumis LONDON is a natural PMS formula specifically developed for women who suffer from PMS symptoms like painful period cramps, sleeplessness and Anxiety (stress). 

– Some natural supplements, such as certain herbs, vitamins, spices and berries may have beneficial effects on PMS symptoms. For example, cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) have shown promising results at reduce inflammation, chronic pain, and mood changes associated with PMS. Similarly, turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, and it has also been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Some research suggests that turmeric may have potential benefits for reducing PMS symptoms.One study found that turmeric extract may be effective at reducing PMS-related bloating and abdominal pain. Another study found that turmeric supplements reduced the severity of PMS symptoms, including mood changes, breast tenderness, and bloating, in a group of Iranian women.

Illumis – PMS Formula is a blend of 4 natural ingredients (including others) that where specifically selected to help women manage the worst of PMS symptoms. These 4 natural ingredients have shown to help alleviate PMS symptoms individually. Illumis – PMS Formula on the other hand, was scientifically developed to ensure that these ingredients work in synergy (together) to further enhance their positive alleviating effects for PMS.

Conclusion

In conclusion, natural supplements like Vitex agnus castus, or chasteberry, and other natural supplements may be beneficial to help tackle some of PMS’ symptoms. While there is limited scientific evidence to support its use for PMS, some studies have shown that it may be effective in reducing symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and breast tenderness. Chasteberry may also have potential skin benefits, including the ability to fight acne and reduce inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of chasteberry and it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement.

 

References:

• Chen, L. (2018). Premenstrual syndrome. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441857/
• Gülmezoglu, A. M. (2012). Premenstrual Syndrome. In World Health Organization (WHO). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/menstruation/pms/en/
• Amato P, Minutoli L, Saitta A, et al. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) in premenstrual syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2005;105(3):447-455.
• Schellenberg R. Treatment for the premenstrual syndrome with agnus castus fruit extract: prospective, randomised, placebo controlled study. British Medical Journal. 2001;322(7279):134-137.
• Harnham L, Graham-Brown RA. Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus). American Family Physician. 2009;80(9):937-939.
• Rostami Nejad M, Mohajeri MR, Tavakoli N, et al. The effects of Vitex agnus-castus on skin sebum production in healthy women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Phytotherapy Research. 2010;24(12):1889-1893.
• Akhondzadeh, S., et al. “Pilot study of turmeric in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, vol. 11, no. 6, 2005, pp. 639-642.
• Abbasi, S., et al. “The effect of curcumin on the severity and duration of premenstrual syndrome symptoms.” Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, vol. 59, no. 2, 2014, pp. 145-150.