Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus Verbenaceae)

Other Names: Chaste Tree, Monk's Pepper

Vitex, native to the Mediterranean and now grown in subtropical climates worldwide, is a shrub reaching 3–5 meters in height. Its elegant leaves consist of 5–9 long, thin leaflets. In autumn, purple flower blooms produce yellow-red fruits with a sage-pepper flavor, giving it the name "monk's pepper."

Parts for Use

Fruits

1. Harvested when ripe in September and October, then dried.
2. Used for liquid and dry extracts, requiring at least 0.2% active ingredients for efficacy.

Ingredients

Contains essential oils, labdanes, iridoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, plant steroids, and fatty acids, contributing to its hormonal and therapeutic effects.

Use in Treatment

Vitex supports pituitary function, which regulates hormones involved in the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and sperm production. It is used to treat premenstrual tension, PMS, absence of menstruation, infertility due to irregular or absent ovulation, and breast pain. Studies in Germany and the Czech Republic confirm its effectiveness in relieving PMS and breast pain. Homeopathic vitex preparations have restored menstrual cycles in women with conception issues caused by irregular or absent menstruation, improving fertility.

Cultivation

Grow in rich, moist to dry soil in a warm, sunny location.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Pituitary Problems, PMS, Menstruation Issues, Infertility, Breast Pain)

1. Capsules (250 mg dry extract): Take 2 capsules in the morning and 2 in the evening with water.
2. Tincture (1:3 in 25% alcohol): Take 30 drops in cold water every morning for up to 6 months; effects may take 12 weeks to appear.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
3. Prolonged use may cause tingling sensations on the skin.
4. May cause allergic reactions.
5. Avoid with psychotherapeutic drugs or medications for Parkinson’s disease.