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Q:   I read somewhere that you can take chaste tree berry to help regulate hormones
       and help get rid of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Is this true?


A: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) happens when the ovaries are enlarged and have several fluid-filled cysts, and is particularly related to an excess of androgens (testosterone), which prevents normal egg development. When eggs are underdeveloped, the follicles become cysts and the normal progesterone surge does not take place, resulting in low progesterone levels. The lack of progesterone causes various hormones (LH and FSH) to stimulate the ovaries to make more estrogen and androgens, which in turn stimulates more follicles toward ovulation. If these additional follicles are also unable to produce a matured egg and make progesterone, the menstrual cycle is dominated by estrogen and androgen production without progesterone.

The role that chaste tree berry (also known as Vitex) plays is by increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) production, which results in a shift in the ratio of estrogen to progesterone, in favor of progesterone. Vitex has been shown to help re-establish normal balance of estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle. Vitex also blocks prolactin secretion in women with excessive levels of this hormone. Excessive levels of prolactin can lead to breast tenderness, amenorrhea, and failure to ovulate. Studies have shown that using Vitex once in the morning over a period of several months helps normalize hormone balance. According to our nutrition support documents a general recommendation falls between 500-1000 mg one to three times a day. Some healthcare practitioners recommend 40 drops of a liquid, concentrated Vitex extract or one capsule of the equivalent dried, powdered extract once per day in the morning with some liquid. Vitex should be taken for at least four to six cycles to determine efficacy.

Another idea to consider is that excess insulin has been linked with excess androgen and preventing ovulation. Recent clinical investigations have demonstrated that lowering insulin levels results in reduced androgen levels and in some cases allows ovulation to occur. These factors make this issue more of a metabolic condition that can impact all parts of the body (e.g. brain, weight, etc). Chromium, an essential trace element, is required for normal insulin functioning and can increase insulin sensitivity. Supplementing with 200mcg 1-2x a day of chromium may be helpful in lowering insulin levels along with taking refined white sugar and flour products out of ther diet.