Agnus Castus is a tree native to central Asia and the Mediterranean region. It is the fried ripe berries that are used in herbal medicine. Hippocrates, Dioscorides, and Theophrastus mention the use of agnus castus for a wide variety of conditions, including haemorrhage following childbirth and assisting with the “passing of afterbirth”. Decoctions of the fruit and plant were also used in sitz baths for diseases of the uterus. In addition, agnus castus was believed to suppress libido and inspire chastity, which explains one of its common names, chaste tree.
What it does
Agnus castus contains non-hormone compounds which act on the pituitary gland, specifically on the production of luteinizing hormone and is useful for female hormone health. It essentially raises progesterone levels and lowers oestrogen levels which are commonly out of balance and helps regulate the menstrual cycle. Agnus castus also keeps prolactin secretion in check. The ability to decrease mildly elevated prolactin levels may benefit some infertile women as well as some women with breast tenderness associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Potential Uses
| Amenorrhoea | Dysmenorrhoea | Endometriosis |
| Female infertility | Acne associated with the menstrual cycle | Fibrocystic breast disease |
| Menorrhagia | Premenstrual syndrome | Pregnancy & postpartum support |
| Polycystic ovary syndrome |
Other information
With its emphasis on long-term balancing of a woman’s hormonal system, agnus castus is not a fast-acting herb and is unlikely to give immediate relief to the discomfort associated with PMS. For premenstrual syndrome, frequent or heavy periods, agnus castus can be used continuously for four to six months.
Infertile women with amenorrhoea (lack of menstruation) can remain on agnus castus for 12 to 18 months, unless pregnancy occurs during treatment.
It can be used to rebalance hormones after pregnancy, but not if you are breastfeeding.
Cautions
- Side effects may include minor stomach upset and a mild skin rash with itching.
- is not recommended for use during pregnancy and should not be used concurrently with hormone therapy (e.g., oestrogen, progesterone).
- appears to reduce levels of the hormone prolactin, so should be avoided when taking drugs that have the same action eg bromocriptine.
- should not be used for children under the age of 12.
- When this article was written there were no other well-known negative drug interactions with Agnus Castus.
Main benefits of agnus castus (chaste tree)
The main benefits of agnus castus include:
- Reducing PMS symptoms: can help to reduce PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings, and cramping.
- Improving fertility: can help to improve fertility in women by regulating hormones and promoting ovulation.
- Relieving menopause symptoms: can help to relieve menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia.
Side effects of agnus castus (chaste tree)
It is generally safe for most people to take. However, there are a few potential side effects, such as:
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Skin rash
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular menstrual cycles
Vitex agnus castus supplements
Vitex agnus castus supplements are available in capsule, powder, and liquid form. They are generally safe for most people to take, but it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
The recommended dosage of agnus castus supplements varies depending on the individual’s needs and goals. However, most people should not take more than 1 gram of agnus castus per day.
