Description

A common name for Agnus castus is Chaste tree. Also known as Vitex Agnus Castus and used to create Organic Agnus Castus Tincture. Agnus castus is a large shrub that is related to Vervain.  Used in herbal medicine Agnus castus helps regulate the female hormones.  Thus Agnus castus exerts a positive effect on the balance of female hormones via the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is one of the body’s master glands, that assesses the healthy production of the body’s systems. So, the pituitary gland signals the system to increase the production of some hormones and restrict others, according to the current balance.

Regulates the cycle

This helps to regulate the cycle. However, many factors can disrupt the menstrual cycles and the hormonal balance and this creates various  physical and emotional symptoms.  Also Agnus castus, with its balancing action can be helpful for symptoms connected with female hormones. Accordingly it has proved useful for PMT, with the symptoms of emotional instability, breast tenderness and bloating. Also infertility, menstrual problems and flushes, discomfort and anxiety.

History

Agnus castus is a shrub, almost as high as a tree with long sprigs. It grows in damp fields and rough places.  It is hard to break, and the leaves are similar to those of the olive, yet more tender and bigger.  Also some of them bear white flowers inclining to purple, other’s purple flowers and the seed is like pepper.

The Persians knew of vitex, as seen in two of the translated works on Materia medica. These were The Medical Formulary of Al- Kindi from 9th century and The Medical Formulary of Al-Samarquandi from about ad1200.  Thus Vitex was revered for ailments, like colic, gas and other problems in areas where it grew. Primarily around the Med.

Science

Research trials from Germany and England have shown good results for Organic agnus castus tincture as a treatment for PMS, showing it to be better than a placebo.   Agnus Castus is also used for acne, pimples and spots, often during youth in both males and females, particularly when the cause is hormonal.

General

Common names: Chaste tree
Family: Vervain family
Habitat: Med
Parts used: Fruit, bark
Strength: 1:3

Dose
Add 1tsp to water and take once a day or as instructed by your health care provider.  Agnus castus usually requires three cycles to show results, though many women report improvements very quickly.