Acne Medications

Altern Med Rev. 2009 Mar; 14(1): 67-71Vitex agnus-castus (chaste tree) is a deciduous shrub that is native to Europe and Asia. Medicinally, the berries have been used for centuries for conditions such as acne, constipation, infertility, lactation support, and libido control. Current clinical uses for chaste tree are menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome, and mastalgia. These indications are supported by the German Commission E reports and a recent survey of practitioners. Recent clinical research identified a dopaminergic effect of chaste tree on the pituitary, with central prolactin inhibition. Hormone modulation by Vitex is seen through dopamine antagonism, not by stimulation of FSH and LH, as was originally reported by early clinical studies. Due to its high degree of safety and efficacy, Vitex is widely used by German physicians, herbalists, and naturopathic physicians for many gynecological conditions.