Vitex agnus-castus
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 Vitex agnus-castus flowers with halictid bee, Hemingway, South Carolina
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Vitex agnus-castus (commonly called just Vitex but also called Chaste Tree, Chasteberry or Monk's Pepper) is a native of the Mediterranean region. Refer to Vitex for other species in the genus.
[edit] Cultivation and uses
Vitex agnus-castus is widely cultivated in warm temperate and subtropical regions for its aromatic foliage and flowers. It grows to a height between 1-5 metres. It requires full sun or partial shade along with well-drained soil.
It is sometimes used for the treatment of PMS. It is believed to be an anaphrodisiac, hence the name "chaste tree", and is used as a medicinal plant by many herbalists. The parts used include the chaste tree's leaves, flowers, and berries. The berries are considered a tonic herb for both the male and female reproductive systems. The leaves have the same effect, but to a somewhat lesser degree. It is used in some supplements for male bodybuilders as a secondary component, as some studies suggested that it may decrease the prolactin levels, which, in turn, may increase LH (luteinizing hormone); increased LH triggers an increase in the testosterone levels which is beneficial for increasing muscular mass and strength.[citation needed] It probably does not have the same effect on the female metabolism.
The leaves and tender stem growth of the upper 10 cm (4 inches), along with the flowers and ripening seeds, may be harvested for medicinal purposes. The berries are harvested by gently rubbing the berries loose from the stem. The leaves, flowers, and/or berries may be consumed as a decotion, traditional tincture, cider vinegar tincture, syrup, elixir, or simply eaten straight off the plant as a medicinal food.
[edit] References
- Hartung, T., 2000. Growing 101 Herbs That Heal. Storey Books. ISBN 1-58017-215-6
- Chevallier, A., 2000. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Dorling Kindersley. ISBN 0-7894-6783-6
