Chaste-tree

(Vitex agnus-castus)

Part Used: fruit

Properties and Uses: Female aphrodisiac, male anaphrodisiac, pituitary stimulant, reproductive tonic

In recent years Vitex agnus-costus has become one of the most popular herbs for a range of gynaecological problems.
It acts on the pituitary gland to increase the production of female sex hormones involved in ovulation, so can help to regulate the menstrual cycle and also improve hormone production at the menopause.

The herb is known as chaste-tree and grows wild in Mediterranean areas including Greece and Turkey, where it is regarded in folk medicine as a potent female aphrodisiac.
Some argue that the common name is derived from its pure white flowers, although an equally likely explanation derives from its use as a male anaphrodisiac in medieval times.
Then, the herb was taken by celibate monks to reduce libido and lascivious thoughts - hence its alternative country name of monk's pepper
It is still sometimes prescribed for problems with premature ejaculation.

For women, it is considered best to take chaste-tree in the early morning when the pituitary gland is believed to be most active.
Low doses - 10-20 drops of a 1:5 tincture - are often preferred.
In higher doses it sometimes has the side effect of "formication" - a sensation generally described as ants crawling over the skin.