Just about every woman has experienced the discomfort, aching or pain of menstrual cramps, which can occur as a slight lower abdominal ache or as sharp, continuous throbbing. The Mayo Clinic notes that not all females experience severe menstrual cramping, but cramps can interfere with daily work and activities for some women. An herb called vitex, or chasteberry, is popularly used to decrease menstrual cramping. However, supplements of any kind should not be taken without the advice of your doctor.
Definition
Vitex is an herbal medicine that is available in capsule or tablet form. Also known as chasteberry, chaste tree fruit and monk's pepper, its scientific name is vitex agnus castus. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, this herb contains naturally occurring hormones including progesterone, testosterone and androstenedione as well as compounds such as flavanoids, volatile oils and alkaloids.These potent medicinal ingredients are thought to help balance the effects of surging hormones during the menstrual cycle that cause bleeding and abdominal cramping.
Uses
Vitex is commonly used as an alternative medicine for the relief of symptoms linked to premenstrual syndrome. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, these include menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, irritability, depression, abdominal swelling, menstrual irregularities, infertility and acne. This herbal supplement is thought to affect the release of various hormones from the pituitary gland in the brain, helping to reduce the severity and duration of menstrual cramps.
Affects on Pain
Vitex is used to reduce menstrual cramps through its affects on the hormones prolactin and progesterone, which cause the uterus to contract and shed its lining when you have your period. The Linus Pauling Institute at the Oregon State University notes that vitex also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory chemicals such as casticin and penduletin, which help to reduce the pain of menstrual cramps.
Clinical Research
Research published in 2001 in "The British Medical Journal" reports vitex is effective for menstrual cramps and other symptoms occurring before and during menstruation, such as mood changes, headache, breast tenderness and body swelling. However, the beneficial effects of this herbal supplement occur gradually over time, and the researchers advise that the recommended daily of vitex be taken for a duration of three months to significantly reduce menstrual cramps.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Menstrual Cramps
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Chasteberry
- "British Medical Journal"; Treatment For Premenstrual Syndrome With Agnus Castus Fruit Extract; Schellenberg R, 2001 Jan 20; 322(7279):134-7
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Chasteberry
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University: Flavonoids
