Chasteberry/Vitex Berry (Vitex agnus-castus) – Dried Herb, Organic

Vitex agnus-castus is native to the Mediterranean area but now grows in many temperate regions of the world. Chasteberry is also called Chaste Tree, from the name of Greek legends meaning chastity and faithfulness. Another common name for Chasteberry is Vitex Berry and Monk’s Pepper.

Chasteberry belongs to the plant family called Vebenaceae. Chaste Tree is a small shrub with narrow leaves and purple flowers. The fruit has been used for more than two thousand years. The Greek physician Dioscorides recommended to the wives of soldiers to help keep them chaste while their husbands were in battle. Monks of the Middle Ages used these berries to curb desires and similarly was used by both women and men of Ancient Greece for the same purpose.

Chasteberry has been used in traditional European herbalism for the reproductive support for thousands of years. It has the effect of stimulating and normalizing pituitary gland functions, especially the progesterone function. The greatest use of Chasteberry lies in normalizing the activity of female sex hormones. It may also be used to normalize the balance after using the birth control pill or when approaching menopause.

Properties: 

The flavours of Chasteberry are sweet, pungent and bitter and the energetics are warming and drying. Vitex has an affinity for the reproductive system. It has also been used to support a variety of inflammatory conditions.

Chasteberry may be blended with Dandelion Leaf and Red Clover to help promote balance and nourishment of the reproductive system.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Chasteberry to one cup of boiling water. Steep for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Cautions & contraindications:

Consult your health practitioner before using during pregnancy, breastfeeding or if taking birth control pills.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.