Chaste-tree [Vitex agnus-castus] has the effect of stimulating and normalizing pituitary gland functions, especially its progesterone function. When working with Chaste-tree berries, I classify her as amphoteric type of herb, which means that she tends to have a balancing effect specific to the pituitary gland function, the reproductive system, and libido. An example of the amphoteric effects of Chaste-tree are best observed in libido changes: if the individual is prone to having a higher libido, one of the effects of using Chaste-tree that may be noticed is a decrease in libido, however, if the individual is more prone to a lower libido, Chaste-tree may act as a libido booster, which would then increase the activity desires of the user. It will always enable what is appropriate to occur in order to help restore the body or system back to homeostasis, which is the optimal balanced state.
Primarily, Chaste-tree is used to help normalize the activity of the female sex hormones but is also used regularly for assisting with symptoms like dysmenorrhea, PMS, and other disorders related to hormone function. It is especially beneficial during menopausal changes. In a similar way, it may be used to aid the body to regain a natural balance after the use of birth control pills or major changes in hormone levels. Chaste-tree may also be helpful with skin ailments like premenstrual herpes outbreaks or acne on the lower half of the face, premenstrual breast pain, fibrocystic breast disease, endometriosis, luteal-phase deficiency, infertility, spotting during ovulation, ovarian or uterine cysts or tumors, menopausal hot flashes, low progesterone, high prolactine, and low dopamine.
Recommended dosage: as an infusion – pour a cup of boiling water onto (1)tsp of the dried berries and let steep for 10-15mins. Drink 2-3 times per day. As a tincture – take one dropper full twice daily
ACTIONS:
--Warming
--Drying
--Hormone Balancing
--Galactagogue
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
-- concurrently with contraceptives, progestins, dopamine-receptor antagonists
--consult with a trained medical profession regarding use during pregnancy
--monitor usage and consult a trained professional if any abnormal changes occur with
menstruation (heavy flow, increased clotting, flooding, etc)
Luisa Evonne Valdez, AKA The Herbalista, is a formally-trained herbalist practicing in Phoenix, Arizona. She is a member of the inCYST Network and has conducted a training for our members about herbs for PCOS. She is on the schedule at Dr. Lundgren's upcoming PCOS Boot Camp. Visit her website and follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
--Tonic for the reproductive organs