Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2003; 111(1): 44-46
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-37500
Short Communication

J. A. Barth Verlag in Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Dose-Dependent Stimulation of Melatonin Secretion after Administration of Agnus Castus

J. S. E. Dericks-Tan 1 , P. Schwinn 1 , C. Hildt 2
  • 1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, J. W. Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Germany
  • 2Department of Internal Medicine, Stadtkrankenhaus Hanau, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Received: February 14, 2002 First decision: March 27, 2002

Accepted: May 20, 2002

Publication Date:
26 February 2003 (online)

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.

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PD Dr. Jeanne S. E. Dericks-Tan

Universitäts-Frauenklinik

Theodor-Stern-Kai 7

60590 Frankfurt am Main

Germany

Phone: +49/6963015534

Fax: +49/6963015522

Email: Dericks-Tan@em.uni-frankfurt.de