Chaste Tree Berry, Young Plant
(also referred to as...)
Vitex
Latin Name: Vitex agnus cactus
Family: Familius
Description
This shrub is native to the shores of the Mediterranean and develops fragrant flowers during the months of September and October. The berries resemble peppercorns and were once said to be an anaphrodeisiac, being given to priestesses to ensure their abstinence. In Italy the leaves are still strewn before novices entering monasteries.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Today, the berries are used to regulate hormonal balance and the menstrual cycle. They work on normalizing estrogen and treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and symptoms that come along with it such as headaches, depression, cramps, edema, and breast sensitivity.
Chaste tree is wonderful in relieving symptoms of menopause. This herb works by acting on the anterior pituitary gland, reducing FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and increasing LH (luteinizing hormone). Essentially, this stimulates progesterone production and reduces estrogen. Due to the enhancement of the progesterone cycle, chaste tree can be used to treat painful menstruation and the emotional ups and downs associated with menopause. The berries can also be helpful in ammenorhea, irregular menstruation, heavy bleeding, short menstrual cycle and fibroid cysts. After many years of using the birth control pill it would be a good idea to take chaste tree berries to regain a proper hormonal balance.
Chaste tree can be given to teenage males and females in the treatment of acne and to nursing mothers to encourage breast milk production. Finally, chaste tree berries are an anaphrodisiac and are well known for their ability in lowering sexual libido.
