From Anirva. This article is general information, not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chasteberry or chaste tree berry, is an herb traditionally used for hormone-related symptoms. Here's what the research says about its studied effects on hormones connected to hormonal acne — and what it doesn't show.
In this article
Key Takeaways
- Vitex (chasteberry) is an herb traditionally used for hormone-related symptoms, including PMS and menstrual irregularity.
- Research has looked at its effects on luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin, two hormones connected to androgen levels and, in turn, to hormonal acne.
- Vitex has not been shown to cure, treat, or prevent hormonal acne or any underlying hormonal condition.
- Some people report new breakouts when first starting Vitex; if acne is persistent or severe, a dermatologist or doctor can help find the right approach.
What Is Vitex?
The chaste tree is native to Central Asia, Europe, and the Mediterranean, and is best known for its small purple-black berries. Traditional use of the berry dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was associated with hormone-related effects.
Research has identified several plant compounds in the berry, including flavonoids (such as casticin), essential oils, diterpenes, and glycosides, studied for possible roles in hormone activity and inflammation.
Hormonal Acne and Androgens
Hormonal acne is linked to shifts in hormone levels, particularly increased androgen activity. Androgens can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum (oil), which — combined with dead skin cells and bacteria — can clog pores and contribute to breakouts.
Androgen levels can be affected by a number of factors, and research has studied the hormones luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin as two of the pathways involved. This is general background on how hormones relate to acne, not a description of what Vitex does to treat any condition.
How Vitex Has Been Studied
Luteinizing hormone (LH). Research has looked at the relationship between LH and androgen production, with some findings suggesting LH may help suppress androgen levels (1). Vitex has been studied for a possible effect on LH production, which has drawn research interest in connection with hormonal skin changes.
Prolactin. Elevated prolactin has been studied in connection with higher androgen activity. Vitex has been studied for a possible role in lowering prolactin secretion, which is part of why it has drawn research interest for hormone-related concerns (2).
Other studied compounds. Diterpenes found in the berry have been studied for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in laboratory research (3).
Things to Know Before Trying It
Some people report new or worsening breakouts in the first weeks of taking Vitex, possibly related to its effect on progesterone activity. This isn't universal, and if it happens, it doesn't necessarily mean the supplement is working or not working — individual responses vary.
Vitex is generally taken for an extended period (commonly discussed in research as several months) before any effects are typically noticed, and research on long-term use is still limited. As with any supplement, follow the dosing on the product label, and check with a doctor before starting — especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, on hormonal medication (including birth control), or managing a hormone-related condition. Reported side effects include headache, fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, and stomach upset.
What the Research Does Not Yet Show
Vitex has not been shown to cure, treat, or prevent hormonal acne, PCOS, hyperprolactinemia, or any other hormonal condition. The studies available look at specific hormone measurements and mechanisms, not acne outcomes directly, and more research is needed. If you suspect an underlying hormonal condition or have persistent acne, a doctor or dermatologist can help you find a plan suited to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Vitex cure hormonal acne?
Why might acne get worse before it gets better?
Is Vitex safe to take with birth control or other hormonal medication?
References
- Luteinizing hormone and androgen suppression: a review. PMCID: PMC5015761.
- Naumova et al. Hyperprolactinemia and androgen activity: conference abstract, Endocrine Abstracts, vol. 49.
- Tirapelli et al. Diterpenes: anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. PMID: 18221123.
