Vitex agnus castus extract was studied by the authors in regard to prolacin inhibition and the effect on rat pituitary cells. A synthetic dopamine agonist (Lisuride) was tested at the same time to compare.
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CONCLUSION: The authors concluded that there was sufficient dopaminergic effect from Vitex agnus castus that it should be a useful herbal treatment for slight hyperprolactinaemia (hyperprolactiemia.)
NOTE: Vitex agnus castus is known by the common name chaste tree. The extract of the fruit has been useful for treatment of premenstrual painful breasts. Painful breasts are most likely due to hyperprolactinemia. The active chemicals seem to be dopaminergic. (Wittke, W., et al, Phytomedicine 2003 May;10(4):348-57. University of Gottingen, Germany.) Vitex is strong enough to reduce prolactinoma tumors.
Dopamine agonists are known to reduce prolactin. Women with hyperprolactinemia have increased numbers of autoreactive lymphocytes and increased rates of autoimmune disease.
PMID: 8330858.
Summary 172.
