Overview of Agnus Castus (Vitex)
Agnus Castus (Vitex) is the premier herb for female hormonal balance in Western herbal medicine. It works on the pituitary gland to normalize progesterone and estrogen ratios, making it valuable for a wide range of menstrual and hormonal conditions.
Botanical Classification
| Latin Name |
Vitex agnus-castus |
| Plant Family |
Lamiaceae |
| Common Names |
Chaste Tree, Vitex, Monk's Pepper |
| Medical System |
Traditional European Herbal Medicine, Unani |
Indications & Uses
The following conditions are traditionally or clinically supported for Agnus Castus (Vitex):
- PMS
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Irregular menstruation
- Amenorrhea
- Menopausal symptoms
- Fibrocystic breast disease
- Uterine fibroids
- Female infertility
- Hyperprolactinemia
- Cyclic mastalgia
Medicinal Properties
- Hormonal regulator
- Dopaminergic
- Anti-prolactin
- Progesterogenic
- Anxiolytic
- Antispasmodic
Parts Used
Berries (fruits)
Preparation & Forms
Standardized extract capsules, Tincture, Tea from dried berries
Dosage & Administration
Standardized extract: 20-40mg daily in the morning; Tincture: 40 drops in water once daily
Active Constituents
Casticin, Agnuside, Aucubin, Iridoid glycosides, Flavonoids, Volatile oils, Diterpenes
Clinical Evidence
Multiple clinical trials demonstrate significant improvement in PMS symptoms. Evidence for cyclic mastalgia and corpus luteum deficiency supported.
Cautions & Contraindications
Do not take with hormonal medications, dopamine antagonists, or oral contraceptives. Avoid in pregnancy. May reduce effectiveness of birth control pills.