Vitex agnus-castus
What is it?
Vitex agnus-castus (VAC) is also commonly known as chaste tree or chasteberry. The plant’s main constituents include vitexin, casticin, agnuside, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, alkaloids, and diterpenoids. The fruit consists of flavonoids, terpenoids, neolignans, phenolic compounds, and glycerides. (20) Its main flavonoids include casticin, vitexin, and orientin. (8) Standardized extracts typically measure the iridoid or flavonoid content where aucubin (iridoid glycoside) or agnuside is used as the reference material. (9)
Download ingredient reviewMain uses
Formulations
Dosing & administration
Adverse effects
Vitex agnus-castus does not pose serious health risks and is considered safe. However, it is recommended that pregnant and lactating women avoid its use due to limited safety data in these states. Commonly reported side effects include nausea, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, menstrual disorders, acne, pruritus, and erythematous rash. However, these side effects are mild and reversible. (4)(5)
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of VAC have been scarcely studied.
Absorption
- In mice, the oral bioavailability of agnuside was 0.7% with peak plasma concentrations achieved within 30-45 minutes of administration. (21)
- In vitro, BNO 1095 (a VAC extract) solubility and permeability was improved once it was nano-emulsified, suggesting the possibility for improved bioavailability. (19)
Distribution
- In mice, agnuside was found in the highest amounts in the intestine, kidney, liver, spleen, brain, lungs and heart. (21)
Metabolism
- No data is currently available.
Excretion
- No data is currently available.