herbs - Agnus castus (Chaste tree or vitex)

What is it?

Agnus castus is a tree native to central Asia and the Mediterranean region, it is the dried ripe berries that are used in herbal medicine.

Action

Agnus castus – contains non-hormone compounds which act on the pituitary gland are and useful for female hormone health. It essentially raises progesterone levels and lowers oestrogen levels which are commonly out of balance.

Uses

Our experts recommend agnus castus for the following disorders:

Other information

Agnus castus is one of the most useful herbs for female reproductive system health and menstrual problems. It is sometimes used to rebalance hormones after taking the pill and after childbirth (but not if you are breast-feeding). It may also be useful to balance hormones in male and female teenagers to help with symptoms such as teenage Acne and mood swings. Agnus castus is a very effective herb, but takes a few weeks to take effect, so be patient.

Cautions

• Generally, there are no side effects from using Agnus castus supplements.



• Agnus castus should not be used during pregnancy or lactation.



• It should also not be taken by women whilst on the pill or taking oestrogen or progesterone containing drugs.



• Agnus castus should not be used for children under the age of 12, unless advised by a qualified herbalist.



• When this article was written there were no other well-known negative drug interactions with agnus castus.

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