Why does vitex help acne

However, not all studies have observed benefits. One recent and larger double-blind, randomized, controlled trial — the gold standard in research — gave women a placebo or a daily tablet containing a combination of vitex and St.

After 16 weeks, the vitex supplement was no more effective than the placebo at reducing hot flashes, depression or any other menopausal symptoms Keep in mind that in many studies reporting benefits, women were provided with supplements that mixed Vitex agnus-castus with other herbs.

Vitex may improve female fertility due to its possible effect on prolactin levels This may be especially true in women with luteal phase defect, or a shortened second half of the menstrual cycle. This disorder is linked to abnormally high prolactin levels and makes it difficult for women to become pregnant.

In one study, 40 women with abnormally high prolactin levels were given either 40 mg of Vitex agnus-castus or a pharmaceutical drug. Vitex was as effective as the drug in reducing prolactin levels In another study in 52 women with luteal phase defect, 20 mg of vitex resulted in lower prolactin levels and prolonged menstrual phases, while participants given a placebo saw no benefits Yet another study gave 93 women — who had unsuccessfully tried to become pregnant over the last 6—36 months — a supplement containing Vitex agnus-castus or a placebo.

After three months, women in the vitex group experienced an improved hormone balance — and 26 percent of them became pregnant. In comparison, only 10 percent of those in the placebo group became pregnant Keep in mind that the supplement held a mix of other ingredients, making it difficult to isolate the effects of vitex. Irregular periods can also hamper women in planning a pregnancy.

Three additional studies report that vitex is more effective than a placebo in improving menstrual cycles in women with irregular periods 21 , 22 , Vitex agnus-castus may reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause, though study results are mixed. By potentially decreasing prolactin hormone levels and stabilizing menstrual periods, it may also enhance fertility. In one study, an extract made from vitex seeds helped repel mosquitoes, flies, ticks, and fleas for about six hours Another study revealed that a spray containing vitex and other plant extracts protected against head lice for at least seven hours Research further shows that vitex may kill lice larva and impede adult lice reproduction 25 , Vitex agnus-castus may offer some protection against insects, particularly mosquitoes, flies, ticks, fleas, and head lice.

Treatment of premenstrual tension syndrome with Vitex agnus-castus. Controlled, double-blind study versus pyridoxine. Phytomedicine ; Premenstrual syndrome: Treatment with a phytopharmaceutical. Treatment of premenstrual syndrome with a phytopharmaceutical formulation containing Vitex agnus castus. Treatment of cyclical mastalgia with a solution containing Vitex agnus extract: results of a placebo-controlled double-blind study.

The Breast ; Bone K. Vitex agnus-castus: Scientific studies and clinical applications. Eur J Herbal Med ; Vitex agnus castus extract for the treatment of menstrual irregularities due to latent hyperprolactinemia.

Arzneim Forsch ; [in German]. Amann W. Improvement of acne vulgaris following therapy with Agnus castus Agnolyt. Ther Ggw ; [in German]. Learn more about TraceGains, the company. The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies human, animal, or in vitro , clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available.

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Uses Botanical names: Vitex agnus castus. What Are Star Ratings? This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions: Used for Why 3 Stars.

Vitex has been shown to help balance of estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle and may alleviate PMS symptoms. Vitex has been shown to improve fertility, particularly for women with luteal phase defect, it should be discontinued once a woman becomes pregnant.

Agnus castus has been shown in some studies to reduce breast tenderness. Some older, preliminary research suggests that vitex might help clear premenstrual acne, possibly by regulating hormonal influences. Some older, preliminary German research suggests that vitex might contribute to clearing of premenstrual acne, possibly by regulating hormonal influences on acne. Women in these studies used 40 drops of a concentrated liquid product once daily.

In herbal medicine, vitex, also known as chaste tree, is sometimes used to treat amenorrhea. Research suggests it may regulate hormones related to menstruation and fertility.

Vitex agnus castus is one of the best-recognized herbs in Europe for promoting lactation. In Skin Care. By By Dr. Michelle Jeffries, D. What are anti-androgens? What are anti-androgens used for? Beyond hyperandrogenism can also cause: Androgenetic alopecia balding Seborrhea inflamed skin Hirsutism irregular hair growth , and High blood pressure hypertension More seriously, long-term hormonal imbalances can cause serious issues like prostate cancer and breast cancer if not treated.

Saw Palmetto for Acne Saw palmetto is often recommended by functional healthcare providers for acne because it helps decrease some testosterone from becoming DHT, its more potent form, which can worsen acne. Vitex for Acne Vitex, also called chaste berry, is a long-used natural remedy for PMS pain and breast tenderness. DIM vs. Saw Palmetto vs. Vitex These 3 anti-androgens can all help reduce acne breakouts, but they work differently.

Saw palmetto blocks testosterone-to-DHT conversion, which means it protects from acne and hormonal hair loss in both men and women. It also has skin-hydrating properties. Vitex limits the production of prolactin, which is released in large amounts when you experience stress, become pregnant, or start lactating.

It creates a healthier connection between the skin, nervous system, and endocrine system. It may also improve your mood and reduce pain responses.

Precautions for Using DIM, Saw Palmetto, and Vitex for Acne Before you rush out to buy these three recommendations, sit down and have a real conversation with your dermatologist about the cause of your acne.

It has the potential to negatively affect your menstrual cycle. Saw palmetto, DIM, and Vitex may not be suitable for people under When Vitex stimulates dopamine release, you may produce lower levels of TSH thyroid-stimulating hormone as a result.

If you have thyroid problems, talk to your doctor before taking Vitex. Sources Bhatia, A. Supporting the liver daily throughout the cycle not just when acne shows up is a very helpful way to improve the health of skin long term. Luckily the plants mentioned above specificly Dandelion and Calendula are great at helping with this.

You could consider adding in Nettle as it contains important nutrients for the skin and supports the kidneys in their cleansing function. Medicinal teas are a good way to take these healing herbs as the hot water will additionally help to flush out the skin irritants.

Please also consider reducing the amount of fatty, sugary and processed foods you eat as they will burden your liver. Chaste tree Vitex Agnus-castus is another researched plant that has been used to help to balance hormones in both men and women, especially those suffering with cystic acne.

Chaste tree is thought to work in the body by reducing the amount of androgens male hormones circulating in the body.