Chaste Tree
Vitex agnus castus
Also known as Chaste Tree Fruit or Monk's Pepper
History: The Chaste Tree’s name originates from its use in Roman fertility festivals and its adaptation by the Catholic church as a sign chastity and celibacy. Traditionally, the berries are used to create a pulp and is used as a tincture for the relief of paralysis and limb pain and weakness. Chaste Tree extract has also been used to manage symptoms numerous gynecological issues such as premenstrual syndrome and menopause.
Uses
The Commission E approved the use of chaste tree fruit for irregularities of the menstrual cycle, premenstrual complaints, and mastodynia. The herb has been studied for use in cases of insufficient lactation.
Warning: Patients who have an allergy to or are hypersensitive to V. agnus-castus or patients who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid use. Safe use in children has not been established.
Uses: PMS, normalization of pituitary gland, dysmenorrhea
Active Ingredients: iridoids (agnuside and aucubin), flavonoids(kaempferol, quercetagetin, casticin), diterpenoids, progestins, essential oils, alkaloid vitricine and ketosteroids. Vitexlactam A, diterpene
Actions: Emmenagogue, tonic