Agnus castus (Chaste tree)

Extract of Agnus castus fruit

Agnus castus, also known as the ‘Chaste Tree’, is actually a shrub with lavender or violet flowers. Sometimes it is referred to as Abraham’s Balm, Monk’s Pepper or Chasteberry. The use of Agnus castus has been recorded since the time of Hippocrates. It was believed to be an anti-aphrodisiac and hence the names ‘Chaste Tree’ and ‘Monk’s Pepper’.

Nowadays Agnus castus is recognised more for its ability to help maintain the normal balance of the female hormones in younger women. The berries are used in this tincture – these are reddish brown fruits which give off a pleasant peppermint-like smell.

Another botanical name for Agnus castus is (confusingly) Vitex agnus castus and because of this, it is sometimes referred to simply as Vitex.

The plant grows mainly in the Mediterranean, although it also thrives in sub-tropical regions such as in Africa and the USA. Agnus castus grows to a height of up to 5 metres and bears delicate leaves, flowering in late summer.

Ingredients:

Tincture of Agnus castus (Chaste Tree) dried fruit, extracted in alcohol (69% V/V).

Each ml of oral liquid contains 895mg of tincture and is an extract of the fruit of Agnus castus (Vitex agnus-castus L.) (1:10). Ethanol 69.5% V/V

Women experiencing premenstrual symptoms: 15 to 20 drops in a little water twice daily. Taking the maximum daily dose, you get 1,000 mg of Agnus castus extract, equivalent to 100mg dried berries.

The effects of this product may not be felt immediately. For best results you may need to take this product for up to 3 months.

Do not take more than 40 drops a day. Not for use in children or those under 18 years of age. Do not use if you have a pituitary gland disorder, are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breast-feeding.

See your doctor before taking any form of Agnus castus if you are suffering from an oestrogen-sensitive cancer, have suffered from a pituitary disorder or are taking dopamine agonists, or  antagonists, oestrogens or anti-oestrogens.