Agnus Castus is an aromatic shrub of the Verbenaceae family, native to Europe, North Africa and Central Asia. The berries of the plant are traditionally used in herbal medicine for a variety of health issues, particularly to support hormone balance in women.
Also known as:
- Vitex Agnus-Castus
- Abraham’s balm
- Monk’s pepper
- Lilac chaste tree
- Chasteberry
Available as:
- Capsule
- Tablet
- Liquid extract
- Essential oil
Chemical composition
There are numerous chemical components in Agnus Castus which support the biological activity of the herb – flavonoids, iridoids, terpinoids, and diterpene alkaloids… and many more but I won’t name them all here as I don’t want to bore you! Each of these chemicals act in specific ways to affect hormones.
How Agnus Castus works:
It’s not fully understood how this herb works, but studies have shown that it has a modulating effect on the hypothalamus-pituitary system, promoting hormonal balance and regulating the menstrual cycle. Here’s what the research shows:
- Agus Castus inhibits follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and increases progesterone.
- It stimulates the pituitary to produce LH which in turn signals the ovaries to produce more progesterone. Therefore, it may help to naturally increase the production of progesterone, improving the oestrogen to progesterone ratio, resulting in hormonal balance.
- It also increases dopamine (produced by the hypothalamus), which results in reduced prolactin levels.
When Agnus Castus may be useful?
- PMS
- Menstrual disorders or amenorrhea
- Menopause
- Fertility
- PCOS
When it shouldn’t be used:
- When undergoing fertility treatment or trying to conceive
- Whilst on birth control
- In pregnancy
- When breastfeeding#
- Hormone-sensitive conditions e.g. endometriosis, uterine fibroids, breast, uterine or ovarian cancer
- Parkinson’s schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, or when on medication that affects dopamine levels e.g. antidepressants
Important note: Please do not self-administer. Always refer to an experienced professional to understand how and when to use herbs.
