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Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Verbenaceae
  • Common Names: Chaste Tree, Monk’s Pepper, Chasteberry, Agnus Castus
  • Parts Used: Berries

Description

Chaste tree is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region and western Asia. It is well-known for its role in balancing female hormones, supporting reproductive health, and alleviating symptoms of menstrual and menopausal disorders.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by ancient Greeks and Romans to regulate menstruation and reduce sexual desire in monks, giving it the name “Monk’s Pepper.”
  • Employed in traditional European medicine for infertility, PMS, and menopausal symptoms.
  • Historically taken as a remedy for hormonal imbalances and gynecological conditions.

Constituents

  • Iridoid glycosides (agnuside)
  • Flavonoids
  • Diterpenoids
  • Essential oils
  • Tannins

Actions

  • Hormone regulator
  • Dopaminergic (affects dopamine levels)
  • Galactagogue (promotes lactation)
  • Antispasmodic
  • Anti-inflammatory

Medicinal Uses

1. Hormonal Balance:
Chaste tree helps regulate the menstrual cycle by influencing the pituitary gland and balancing progesterone and estrogen levels.

2. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
It is effective in relieving symptoms of PMS, including mood swings, breast tenderness, and bloating.

3. Menstrual Disorders:
Chaste tree is used to treat irregular periods, amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), and dysmenorrhea (painful periods).

4. Menopausal Support:
It helps alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and irritability.

5. Fertility Support:
By promoting hormonal balance, chaste tree can improve fertility, particularly in cases of luteal phase deficiency.

6. Lactation Support:
Traditionally used to increase milk production in nursing mothers.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried chaste tree berries per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of chaste tree tincture, taken 1-2 times daily.

Capsules:

  • 300-600 mg of standardized extract, taken 1-2 times daily.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy: Avoid use during pregnancy unless under medical supervision.
  • Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Use with caution in conditions like breast cancer or hormone-dependent disorders.
  • Medication Interactions: May interact with dopamine-related medications or birth control pills.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Medicine: Cooling and drying, chaste tree is used to reduce heat and regulate hormonal imbalances.
  • Ayurvedic: Helps balance excess pitta and kapha while supporting reproductive health.

Combinations

  • For PMS Relief: Combine with black cohosh and evening primrose oil.
  • For Menstrual Irregularities: Combine with raspberry leaf and dong quai.
  • For Menopausal Support: Combine with sage and red clover.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Berries are harvested in late summer or early autumn when fully ripe.
  • Drying: Dry berries in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried berries or powdered extracts in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies have confirmed chaste tree’s effectiveness in managing PMS, menstrual irregularities, and menopausal symptoms. Ongoing research is exploring its role in improving fertility and regulating hormonal conditions.

Chaste tree remains a vital herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, offering effective support for hormonal balance, menstrual health, and reproductive well-being.