Some women prefer HRT to Herbal remedies,
Vitex acts more like a progeaterone
Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus castus) - is highly esteemed the world over as a supreme female tonic. Vitex exerts a powerful influence over the endocrine system and is especially nourishing to the pituitary gland, which controls and coordinates the menstrual cycle. The berries of this North African shrub are phytosterol rich and help balance the hormones by promoting the production of progesterone and normalizing the estrogen cycle. Extensive laboratory studies with vitex have demonstrated its ability to stimulate the production of lutenizing hormones, which enhance the progesterone cycle, and at the same time inhibit the release of follicle stimulating hormone, normalizing the estrogen cycle. Regular use of vitex will help regulate menstruation, relieve emotional swings associated with pre menstrual tension, and come to your assistance when dealing with premenstrual abdominal bloating, breast swelling and tenderness, and craving for sweets. Its ability to restore hormonal balance enhances fertility, and it helps normalize reproductive functioning when coming off birth control pills, after giving birth, having a miscarriage or abortion. Women in the midst of menopause find that Vitex will ease menopausal flooding, help eliminate night sweats and hot flashes, lubricate dry vaginal tissue, even out excessive mood swings and help relieve depression. Vitex also stimulates the production of prolactin, and is taken by nursing mothers to ensure an abundant supply of milk as well as rebuild strength and vitality and increase energy. Consistent use of vitex has a strong anti inflammatory effect on the endometrium and has consistently been shown to offer significant assistance in the shrinking of fibroids.
I was taught this.
It is is possible as it is phytosterol, that it could act more promotable as a estrogen in some women. Though Herbalists would recommend taking Black Cohosh (an estrogenic herb) with Agnus Castus as a herbal HRT.
