Agnuside (iridoid) assay

Agnuside is a glycosylated iridoid naturally present in the fruit of chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), a medicinal plant well-known for its regulatory effects on the female hormonal system. This plant-based active ingredient is primarily used in dietary supplements intended to relieve:

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS);
• Menstrual cycle disorders;
• Symptoms related to menopause;
• Mild hormonal imbalances.

Its mode of action, although complex, involves modulation of dopamine, thereby influencing prolactin levels and other key hormones of the female cycle.

Why measure agnuside?

Agnuside dosage is essential for manufacturers of chaste tree supplements. It allows:

• The standardization of dry extracts;
• Quality control of raw materials;
• Regulatory compliance in nutraceutical formulations;
• The assurance of consistent efficiency from batch to batch.

Agnuside is often considered a quality marker in pharmacopoeia monographs and good manufacturing practice guidelines.

Available analytical methods

At YesWeLab, agnuside analysis is performed using several analytical approaches, depending on the matrix to be tested:

• HPLC-DAD: liquid chromatography method with UV detection, suitable for standardized chaste tree extracts;
• LC-MS/MS: coupled mass spectrometry, ideal for complex matrices or very low concentrations;
• HPTLC (high-performance thin-layer chromatography): a rapid screening method used for production controls.

These methods are validated according to the quality standards required by ISO 17025 standards or applicable regulatory requirements.

Commonly analyzed matrices

We perform agnuside analysis in numerous pharmaceutical forms or industrial extracts:

• Dry extracts of Vitex agnus-castus;
• Capsules and tablets made from chaste tree;
• Mother tinctures and hydroalcoholic extracts;
• Plant-based dietary supplements with hormonal effects.

The analysis can also be adapted for multi-ingredient formulations, in which the identification and quantification of agnuside must be differentiated from those of other phenolic or iridoid compounds.

A strategic analysis for the nutraceutical sector

The measurement of agnuside is part of a transparency and promotion approach for natural products with hormonal effects. It reinforces:

• Marketing positioning based on proven effectiveness;
• Traceability of plant-based raw materials;
• Analytical reliability in regulatory dossiers or health claims.

Further analyses recommended

For a complete evaluation of your plant extracts, we recommend combining this test with other targeted dosages:

• Dosage of apigenin – flavonoid with a calming effect;
• Trigonelline dosage – neuroactive plant alkaloid;
• Dosage of theanine – an amino acid with relaxing effects;
• Assay of antioxidant activity – functional valorization of natural extracts.

These analyses ensure a comprehensive analytical approach, essential in the formulation of wellness or women's health supplements.

Have your chaste tree extracts analyzed with YesWeLab

At YesWeLab, we provide you with a network of accredited laboratories for your complex analyses. Through our digital platform, you benefit from:

• Personalized support;
• Access to cutting-edge analytical methods;
• Centralized and seamless management of your samples.

Get a personalized quote

Add this test to your online quote request or contact our scientific team to discuss your specific plant extract requirements.