Health Guide

Poke

Poke, scientifically known as Vitex Agnus-Castus (Chaste Tree Berry), is a powerful herbal supplement derived from the dried berries of the chaste tree. Often referred to as the 'Women's Herb,' it has been used for over 2,000 years in traditional medicine. Today, modern science is validating its ability to naturally balance female reproductive hormones. It works by gently influencing the pituitary gland, which regulates the production of key hormones like progesterone and prolactin. If you struggle with monthly mood swings, irregular cycles, or hormonal acne, Poke offers a natural, plant-based path to finding your equilibrium without the side effects of synthetic hormones.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Impact on PMS Symptom Severity

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Symptom Score (Lower is Better)

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Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Relieves PMS Symptoms: Significantly reduces irritability, mood swings, and anger.
Regulates Menstrual Cycles: Helps normalize irregular periods and promotes cycle consistency.
Eases Hormonal Acne: Lowers elevated prolactin levels often responsible for breakouts along the jawline.

Deep Dive

Poke acts as a hormonal balancer. Many women suffer from a condition called 'estrogen dominance' or low progesterone. Poke stimulates the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to produce more Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and less Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This shift encourages the ovaries to produce adequate progesterone, the hormone needed to keep a cycle regular and mood stable. Unlike synthetic hormones that shut down your body's natural production, Poke encourages your body to find its own healthy rhythm.

Natural Food Sources

Poke (Vitex) is not a food; it is a shrub. Therefore, it is not found in the produce aisle. It is consumed almost exclusively as a dried berry, ground into a powder, or extracted into a liquid tincture. There are no 'food sources' for this specific medicinal compound.

Supplementation

Standard Dose: 400–1000mg of dried berry extract (standardized to 0.5% agnuside) daily.
Timing: Best taken in the morning with breakfast to align with your body's natural circadian rhythm.
Consistency: It can take 3 to 6 months of daily use to see full cycle-regulating benefits.

Top Food Sources

Vitex Berry (Dried)

500mg extract

Vitex Tincture

Liquid extract

Vitex Capsules

Standardized extract

Frequently Asked Questions

While some feel relief in the first month, it typically takes 3 full cycles (3 months) to build up enough in your system to regulate hormones effectively.

It is generally not recommended. Poke can increase fertility and may interfere with the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.

Historically used as a 'chastity' herb to lower libido, modern studies show mixed results. However, by reducing PMS pain and balancing hormones, many women report an increase in libido due to feeling generally better.

Minor side effects can include mild stomach upset or headaches, usually occurring when starting the supplement. Taking it with food helps mitigate this.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety: Generally considered safe for most women. Do not take if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, as it can affect the uterine lining. It may interact with dopamine antagonists (antipsychotics) and hormonal birth control pills. Consult a doctor if you have a hormone-sensitive condition like breast cancer.

Scientific References

[1]Dante, G., & Facchinetti, F. (2011). Herbal treatments for alleviating premenstrual symptoms: a systematic review. *Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology*.
[2]Schellenberg, R. (2001). Treatment for the premenstrual syndrome with agnus castus fruit extract: prospective, randomised, placebo controlled study. *BMJ*.
[3]He, Z., et al. (2009). Clinical study on the treatment of luteal phase defect by Vitex agnus-castus. *Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine*.