For many, the use of herbs is seen as a way of increasing fertility and improving the chances of maintaining pregnancy. Herbal treatment is used as a method for restoring hormonal imbalance and encouraging ovulation.
Agnus Castus (Vitex Agnus Castus)
This popular herb is often promoted as a herb that can reduce hormonal imbalance and increase fertility. Although many of these claims can could be dismissed as old wives tales, there have been some studies into the importance of agnus castus in helping improve fertility chances.
One study looked at 48 women who had been diagnosed as being infertile. Each was told to take agnus castus everyday for three months. During this time, 7 of them became pregnant and a further 25 regained normal progesterone levels.
This suggests that agnus castus may be an effective natural remedy for infertility caused due to hormonal imbalances. It is believed that the herb can help to regulate the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) which plays an important role in ovulation and the production of progesterone. By doing so, it can improve the chances of conceiving naturally without the need for artificial fertility treatments.
Apart from fertility, agnus castus has been used for centuries for its various health benefits. It is believed to be an effective natural remedy for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, mood swings, and other menstrual-related symptoms. The herb is also used to treat acne, fibroids, menopausal symptoms, and low libido.
Agnus castus has also been found to be helpful for women who suffer from luteal phase defect. This condition affects women by shortening the second half of their cycle. It has also been seen to be useful for women who have high prolactin levels. In both cases, Agnus castus can be useful as it encourages the normal functioning of the pituitary gland which is in charge of the hormones.
Hormonal balance can be restored by agnus castus. This is equally true for women who have a hormone deficit or as an excess of hormones.
- Agnus castus can help regulate periods
- Periods which have stopped may be started by agnus castus
- Agnus castus can also help with heavy bleeding
- Increases the ratio of progesterone to oestrogen by lowering excess oestrogen.
- May also help alleviate PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings, and headaches.
- May aid in treating infertility in women by balancing hormones and improving ovulation.
- Has been used traditionally to ease symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and night sweats.
For many women, Agnus Castus can be a very helpful herb when taken as a supplement.
However, it is important to note that agnus castus may not be suitable for everyone. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking it. It may also interact with certain medications, such as birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, and dopamine receptor antagonists. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking agnus castus for any health condition.
In conclusion, agnus castus is a natural herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. While studies suggest that it may be effective for improving fertility and hormonal imbalances, more research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy. Nonetheless, it remains a popular natural remedy that can provide relief for various health issues.
Photo Credit: Anthony Cunningham / Zoom Baby
This post first appeared in 2015. It was last updated in June 2023.
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