Organic Chaste Tree - Vitex Berries (Vitex agnus-castus)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Chaste Tree Berries (Vitex agnus-castus)

Common Names: Chasteberry, Monk’s Pepper, Vitex
Family: Lamiaceae (formerly Verbenaceae)
Origin: Mediterranean region, Central Asia
Parts Used: Berries (also known as fruit)

Botanical Description:

Chaste tree is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically grows 6-20 feet tall. It has palmate leaves with 5-7 lance-shaped leaflets, and produces fragrant lavender or violet flowers in summer, followed by small, dark purple to black berries.

Historical and Folklore:

Chaste tree has a long history of use, particularly in women's health. In ancient Greece and Rome, the berries were believed to reduce sexual desire, which is why monks used them in the Middle Ages to promote celibacy, hence the name "Monk's Pepper."

Habitat and Growing Conditions:

Chaste tree thrives in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and can be grown in USDA zones 6-9. It prefers warm climates and can be found in both wild and cultivated forms in Mediterranean regions.

Constituents:

The berries contain several active compounds, including flavonoids, iridoid glycosides (such as aucubin and agnuside), and essential oils. These compounds are thought to contribute to the herb's effects on the endocrine system.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Slightly warming and drying
• Taste: Bitter, pungent

Medicinal Actions and System Affinities:

• Primary Actions: Hormone modulator, galactagogue (promotes lactation), anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
• System Affinities: Endocrine system, particularly in relation to reproductive hormones

Primary Uses:

• Menstrual Health: Chaste tree is widely used to regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and manage conditions like amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
• Menopause: It can help balance hormones during menopause, reducing symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
• Infertility: Some evidence suggests it may improve fertility in women by supporting the balance of estrogen and progesterone.
• Acne: Due to its hormone-balancing effects, it is sometimes used to treat hormone-related acne.

Cautions and Interactions:

• Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy unless under professional guidance, as it can influence hormone levels.
• Medication Interactions: It may interact with hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, and medications for Parkinson’s disease. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Side Effects: Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal issues, headaches, or changes in menstrual flow.

Studies and Research:

1. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): A study published in "Planta Medica" demonstrated that Vitex agnus-castus extract significantly improved PMS symptoms in comparison to a placebo .
2. Menstrual Irregularities: Research in the journal "Phytomedicine" supports its use in treating luteal phase defects in women with irregular menstruation .
3. Menopause: A study in "Maturitas" found that chaste tree can reduce menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes.