Question about Vitex?

I have very long cycles, and I want to try the herbal supplement Vitex. From what I read it says to take 3 pills a day for 8-12 Weeks, and then one a day from then on. It also says that it is more affective with long time use. We are not officially TTC until July.

Has anyone tried Vitex and if you have, when do you think I should start taking it?

Re: Question about Vitex?

I just started taking it this cycle-- I take two a day.

I also have long cycles, but I think it's just supposed to promote a healthy uterus.

Anyway, I feel like I might be getting ready to ovulate a little earlier than the last two months-- but who knows.

If it does promise regular cycles, I would start taking it now... If at the very least to provide some normalcy to your cycles.

Message edited 3/4/2008 6:40:40 PM.

Re: Question about Vitex?

This is Vitex agnus castus (chasteberry, vitex) is a traditional herb that has been used historically for hormonal imbalances in women. More recently, numerous clinical research studies have provided evidence for vitex as a important herbal treatment for infertility, female hormonal imbalance, ovulatory irregularity, anovulation, amenorrhea, and other disorders related to hormone function in women. Both of our supplements for fertility contain vitex: FertilAid and Fertility Blend.

In research studies, Vitex has displayed facility in relieving symptoms or addressing deficiencies caused by hormonal imbalances and vitex may be helpful for women who do not have regular or normal menstrual cycles. It may be very supportive as well for women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). In clinical trials, chasteberry (vitex standardized extract) has been demonstrated to enhance fertility, "and women with fertility disorders benefited from vitex agnus castus, with more pregnancies then in placebo groups".

Because vitex impacts key hormones that regulate and balance the menstrual cycle, vitex can help balance the levels and ratios of hormones required for normal menstrual function, ovulation, and fertility. As Vitex is safe, it may be used by women seeking to become pregnant to increase chances of conception. More specifically, it can be used by women with irregular ovulatory function and by women with shorter luteal phases. Vitex may also be used after discontinuing use of birth control pills to restore normal ovulation.

As vitex has the effect of stimulating and normalizing pituitary gland functions, especially its progesterone function, vitex may be particularly useful in cases of low levels of progesterone during the luteal phase (the period between ovulation and the end of the menstrual cycle). As the studies below indicate, vitex may be very effective in promoting normal hormonal function, regular and frequent ovulation, and support fertility and conception.

The key to conceiving a baby is ensuring that ovulation takes place and you have a regular menstrual cycle. In this context, vitex or chaste berry has been shown to stabilize hormonal imbalances. Vitex may also be helpful for women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) who do not have a normal menstrual cycles or who ovulate irregularly, or experience amenorrhea or anovulation. However, PCOS is a complicated issue with unknown causes.

A large percentage ovulatory and menstrual problems are caused directly or indirectly by low levels progesterone following ovulation (the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle). Low levels of progesterone may cause LPD (luteal phase defect) or corpus luteum insufficiency. In the context of hormonal imbalances, Vitex may prove helpful with these infertility issues. According to studies and clinical research, vitex has proven effective. Benefits will increase over time - with maximum benefits after 3 months. Vitex is available in tinctures and in capsule products like Fertility Blend and FertilAid. For other information on fertility and supplements, click on Evening Primrose Oil.

one article I found:

Re: Question about Vitex?