VITEX AGNUS CASTUS So named because the seeds reputedly subdue the sexual urge and have long been used by monks to produce this effect. But be forewarned: some suggest the aromatic seeds have exactly the opposite effect! Whatever the effect on the libido, it is clear that it has an effect on hormonal balance. Recent German studies indicate that seed extracts regulate menstrual bleeding or too frequent menstruation, and may do this by stimulating progesterone and regulating estrogen. In Germany, women who are stopping oral contraception, use chaste tree to help reestablish normal menstruation and ovulation.

The overall effect is to regulate the menstrual cycle and slightly increase the production of progesterone in women who otherwise have irregular cycles. Many menstrual complaints are known to result from a relative lack of progesterone. When progesterone levels are low relative to estrogen, the result is often infertility, heavy bleeding, lack of periods, too-frequent periods, irregular periods, and premenstrual syndrome. Because it helps normalize LH levels, chaste tree alleviates these complaints. It can normalize and regulate menstrual cycles, reduce premenstrual fluid retention, and treat some cases of acne that flare up during menstruation.

Chaste tree's berries also can be used for menopausal bleeding irregularities, such as frequent or heavy bleeding; it is often combined with hormonal herbs such as black cohosh or soy. Therapy of six months to one year is usually recommended.

Chaste tree is a slow-acting herb and can take months to produce effects. When treating infertility, chaste tree is continued for one to two years; it is discontinued if pregnancy occurs. Because the constituents in chaste tree -- including flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, and terpenoids -- gradually normalize FSH and LH levels, it helps allow for normal ovulation and pregnancy. Chaste tree also lowers the hormone prolactin, produced during stressful periods, which also may cause tender breasts and uterine cramps associated with PMS.

Hardy to zone 6. Seeds require stratification.

Cultivation:   Sow in spring . Stratification needed. Sun dryish soils .

50 seeds