Holland & Barrett Femlieve (Vitex Agnus-Castus Fruit Dry Extract (7 - 13 : 1), Extraction Solvent Ethanol 60%)

Femlieve is positioned for women who experience hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle. Clinical and traditional use suggest it may be helpful for the following conditions:

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterised by mood swings, breast tenderness and bloating.
• Irregular menstrual cycles, including delayed or missed periods.
• Luteal phase support to promote a more stable post‑ovulatory phase.
• Mild menstrual discomfort such as cramps or lower‑back pain.
• Hormonal imbalances that may affect skin or hair health.

• Vitex agnus‑castus fruit extract contains flavonoids and iridoid glycosides that act as a dopamine D2 receptor agonist in the pituitary gland. By stimulating D2 receptors, prolactin secretion is reduced, which can indirectly modulate the release of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle‑stimulating hormone (FSH). This shift may help restore a more typical luteal phase hormonal profile and support overall menstrual cycle regularity.

Adverse reactions to Femlieve are generally mild, but users should be aware of both common and less frequent serious events.

Common

• Mild gastrointestinal upset such as nausea or stomach discomfort.
• Headache or transient dizziness.
• Slight fatigue or drowsiness.

Serious

• Allergic skin reactions including rash, itching or swelling.
• Signs of hormonal disturbance such as unexpected breast enlargement or galactorrhoea.
• Severe abdominal pain that persists.
• Any indication of liver dysfunction (e.g., jaundice).

Before starting Femlieve, consider the following precautionary points to minimise risk.

• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without professional guidance.
• Individuals with known hypersensitivity to Vitex or ethanol should avoid use.
• Those taking hormonal therapies (e.g., contraceptives, hormone replacement) should consult a healthcare professional.
• Patients with endocrine disorders such as prolactinoma or thyroid disease need medical advice prior to use.
• Persons scheduled for surgery should discontinue use several weeks beforehand due to potential hormonal effects.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Femlieve may interact with certain medicines or supplements; awareness of these interactions can help prevent adverse outcomes.

Avoid

• Dopamine antagonists (e.g., antipsychotics such as haloperidol) that could counteract Vitex’s dopaminergic activity.
• Hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, where combined use may alter hormone levels.
• Antidepressants that affect serotonin or dopamine pathways (e.g., SSRIs, MAO inhibitors).

Use with caution

• Anticoagulant or antiplatelet agents, as Vitex may have mild effects on platelet aggregation.
• Herbal products with similar hormonal activity, such as chasteberry or black cohosh.
• Medications metabolised by CYP450 enzymes, pending further evidence.