Agnus Castus
Also called: Chaste tree, monk's pepper, vitex.
Source: Native to south-western Europe;
Grown commercially in Europe.
Medicinal uses: Premenstrual tension, heavy or frequent menstruation,
spotting impaired menstrual flow, swelling and tenderness of the breasts,
infertility, menopausal symptoms, and other women's conditions requiring hormone
regulation.
Part used: Fruit (berries).
Forms available: Teas, capsules, tinctures, tablets, combination
products.
Caution: Do not use agnus castus if taking hormone replacement
therapy or birth control pills.
Generally not recommended for use if you're pregnant; however, in cases of
progesterone deficiency, it has been administered under medical supervision
to prevent miscarriages in the first trimester.
Some minor skin irritations have been reported.
