Re: Melasma caused by Vitex?

I have been taking vitex and holy basil for the past month and over the past two weeks I started to notice dark spots in the skin above my upper lips. I had no idea this was actually a condition called melasma, which happens due to hormonal imbalances. I am stopping all supplements right now, but I am wondering if maybe the Vitex has anything to do with it. I am seeing my Dr. today for some blood test and to see what is happening with my hormones. But since my Dr does not know anything about herbal remedies, I'll like to know if anyone here has any theories.

Melasma is thought to be induced and aggravated by increases of estrogen and/or progesterone.  Vitex will increase progesterone, but it takes several months to build up enough to cause any significant rise.

The holy basil strengthens the adrenal glands that also produces hormones, but primarily after menopause, natural or surgical.

Certain ethnic groups are also more prone to this condition as well.