Therapeutic effect of Vitex agnus castus in patients with premenstrual syndrome

Abstract

In this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, 128 women suffering from premenstrual syndrome were evaluated (active 62, placebo 66). All patients answered a self-assessment questionnaire about headache, anger, irritability, depression, breast fullness and bloating during the premenstrual period. Forty drops of Vitex agnus extract or matching placebo were administered for 6 days before menses for 6 consecutive cycles. Rank of variables differed significantly in active and placebo groups before and after the study (P<0.0001), and there were significant differences for Vitex agnus in comparison with placebo (P<0.0001). Vitex agnus can be considered an effective and well tolerated treatment for the relief of symptoms of mild and moderate PMS.