Scientific name: Vitex agnus-castus
Higher classification: Chaste tree
Rank: Species
Family: Lamiaceae
Order: Lamiales
Common Name: chaste tree
Used part: The dried peppercorn-sized fruit (seeds).
What is vitex agnus-castus?
Vitex agnus-castus is the most common vitex used medicinally.
The Vitex agnus-castus fruit, also known as chasteberry or monk’s pepper, is about the size of a peppercorn. It’s produced by the chaste tree, which acquired its name because its fruit was likely used to decrease men’s libido during the middle Ages (2Trusted Source).
This fruit — as well as other parts of the plant — are typically used as an herbal remedy to treat a variety of ailments.
Vitex's entire mechanism of action is unknown, but it may indirectly influence several different hormones, such as prolactin, progesterone, and estrogen. For example, it is thought that vitex reduces the release of prolactin by activating dopamine receptors.1 Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that helps promote breast development and milk production.
What does vitex agnus-castus taste like?
The most striking feature of agnus castus in its habitat is the powerful and very evocative pungent, warm, heavy scent that emanates from the trees in the hot sun, and which is also released when crushing the fruits in your hands. From time immemorial, perhaps in reflection of this quality, it has been claimed by women as their own.
When tasted agnus castus delivers a powerful kick. First up is a hot peppery taste, followed by a bitter taste that persists for some minutes and a subtle sweetness that is transitory. Next up the peppery turns to a tingle which over some hours turns back to a most persistent pepperiness.
What are the culinary uses for vitex agnus-castus?
Chaste berries are aromatic, have a peppery taste and can be used as a substitute for pepper.
It is used in Middle Eastern spice mixtures.
What are the Health benefits of vitex agnus-castus?
1. PMS
In many clinical studies, chaste berry reduced a variety of PMS symptoms including breast pain and tenderness, edema, constipation, irritability, depressed mood, anger, and migraines The existing evidence suggests that chasteberry may help with PMS. You may take it for this purpose if you and your doctor determine it may be helpful in your case. Never take chasteberry instead of what your doctor recommends or prescribes.
2. Female Fertility and Menstrual Cycle Disorders
In Germany, chasteberry is used to treat luteal phase disorders. This is the second half of the menstrual cycle, which is usually shortened in women with the disorder [1].
Luteal phase disorder is primarily caused by progesterone deficiency in the first phase of the menstrual cycle. Another menstrual cycle disorder, called amenorrhea, is the absence of menstruation. This may be caused by sustained hormone fluctuations, thyroid malfunction, pituitary tumor, premature menopause, and pregnancy [11].