Vitex agnus castus
(Chaste tree, Monk's pepper)

Therapeutic Actions:

• Anaphrodisiac
• Decreases FSH secretion
• Galactagogue - improves both quantity of milk and let-down mechanism
• Increases LH secretion
• Stimulates the corpus luteum

Clinical Indications:

• Amenorrhea
• Fertility/Infertility
• Fibrocystic breast disease
• Menopause
• PMS
• Uterine fibroids
• Acne, associated with PMS
• Insufficient lactation
• Menstrual cycle irregularities

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy due to emmenagogue effect but may be helpful in first trimester to prevent miscarriage

Drug/Nutrient Interaction:

• May counteract the effectiveness of birth control pills and other hormone therapy

Chemical Constituents:

• Castine, a bitter
• Flavonoids
• Glycosides
• Possible alkaloids
• Volatile oil

Toxicity:

• Generally regarded as safe - can use for months without any side effects

Copyright 1998 - 2008 by L. Vicky Crouse, ND and James S. Reiley, ND. All rights reserved (ISSN 1527-0661).