Vitex Agnus-castus - Estrogen Interaction
Herbal: Vitex Agnus-castus
Also Known As: Agneau du Moine, Agneau-chaste, Agni Casti, Agnocasto, Agnolyt, Chaste Berry, Chaste Tree, Chaste Tree Berry, Chasteberry, Chastetree, Chinese Vitex, Gattilier, Hemp Tree, Mang Jing Zi, Monk's Pepper, Panj-Angosht, Petit Poivre, Pimiento del Monje, Poivre de Moine
Drug: Estrogen
Brand names:
Estrogen
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jul 22, 2023
Interaction Details
Estrogen is classified as belonging to the following category: Estrogens
Theoretically, vitex agnus-castus could interfere with the activity of estrogens.
Vitex agnus-castus has hormone modulating activity that can interfere with the efficacy of hormone replacement therapy.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
ProbableInteraction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
References
- Liu J, Burdette JE, Xu H, et al. Evaluation of estrogenic activity of plant extracts for the potential treatment of menopausal symptoms. J Agric Food Chem 2001;49:2472-9..
- Wuttke W, Jarry H, Christoffel V, et al. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)--pharmacology and clinical indications. Phytomedicine 2003;10:348-57.
Vitex Agnus-castus Overview
Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chasteberry ('chaste tree') or monk's pepper, is a popular herbal remedy derived from the fruit of the chaste tree. It has a long history of traditional use for various health concerns, particularly in women's health. Vitex is often used to alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and irregular menstrual cycles. Some research suggests that it may help regulate hormone levels, especially in cases of hormonal imbalances. While it is generally considered safe, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using vitex for specific health issues.
Estrogen Overview
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Estrogen is used to treat hot flushes ('hot flashes'; sudden strong feelings of heat and sweating) in women who are experiencing menopause ('change of life', the end of monthly menstrual periods). Some brands of estrogen are also used to treat vaginal dryness, itching, or burning, or to prevent osteoporosis (a condition in which the bones become thin and weak and break easily) in women who are experiencing or have experienced menopause. However, women who need a medication only to treat vaginal dryness or only to prevent osteoporosis should consider a different treatment. Some brands of estrogen are also to relieve symptoms of low estrogen in young women who do not produce enough estrogen naturally. Some brands of estrogen are also used to relieve the symptoms of certain types of breast and prostate (a male reproductive gland) cancer. Estrogen is in a class of medications called hormones. It works by replacing estrogen that is normally produced by the body.
Vitex Agnus-castus - More Interactions
Vitex Agnus-castus interacts with 121 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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