VITEX (VITEX AGNUSCASTUS): A PROMISING MEDICINAL PLANT FOR WOMENS REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Vitex agnus-castus (family: Lamiaceae), commonly known as chaste tree or monks pepper, is a well-known medicinal plant traditionally used for the management of various gynecological and reproductive disorders in women. The plant has gained considerable scientific attention due to its role in hormonal regulation,particularly in conditions associated with menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), mastalgia, and hyperprolactinemia. This review comprehensively analyzes the traditional uses, phytochemical constituents,pharmacological properties, and clinical relevance of Vitex agnus-castus in womens reproductive health. Available evidence suggests that the therapeutic effects of this plant are largely mediated through dopaminergic mechanisms that influence prolactin secretion and restore hormonal balance. The review highlights the potential of Vitex agnus-castus as a safe and effective herbal remedy and emphasizes the need for further well-designed clinical trials to strengthen its integration into evidence-based womens healthcare.