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DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-37500
J. A. Barth Verlag in Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York
Dose-Dependent Stimulation of Melatonin Secretion after Administration of Agnus Castus
Publication History
Received: February 14, 2002
First decision: March 27, 2002
Accepted: May 20, 2002
Publication Date:
26 February 2003 (online)
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Abstract
The circadian rhythm of melatonin secretion was measured in 20 healthy males (20 - 32 yrs.) after intake of placebo or various doses of a special extract of Agnus castus (AC: 120 - 480 mg/die) for 14 days. A significant (p < 0.05) dose-dependent increase of the area under the melatonin secretion curve (AUC) was found. The pattern of circadian rhythm of melatonin secretion was, however, not influenced. It remains to be elucidated whether the AC-stimulated increase of melatonin secretion is suitable for treatment of sleep disturbances.
Key words
Melatonin - Agnus castus - Circadian rhythm
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