What is vitex used for?

People use vitex agnus-castus for conditions related to the menstrual cycle such as breast pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is also used for bone fractures, infertility, menopause symptoms, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

What are the benefits of chasteberry?

In the past, chasteberry extracts were used to treat a variety of gynecological disorders and skin conditions. Today, chasteberry is promoted as a dietary supplement for symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle, infertility, and other conditions.

How do you care for a vitex tree?

Inorganic mulch, such as pebbles or stones, allows the soil to dry between rains. Avoid using organic mulches such as bark, shredded wood, or straw. Fertilize the plant every year or two with general-purpose fertilizer. Chaste trees freeze and die back to ground level during severe weather.

Why is it called the chaste tree?

The plant gets its name from the belief that it is an anaphrodisiac (decreases libido). It is cultivated in warm climates for its foliage and showy flower spikes that attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Can vitex help get pregnant?

Vitex may improve female fertility due to its possible effect on prolactin levels ( 17 ). This may be especially true in women with luteal phase defect, or a shortened second half of the menstrual cycle. This disorder is linked to abnormally high prolactin levels and makes it difficult for women to become pregnant.

Is vitex the same as Chasteberry?

Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) is a large shrub native to the Mediterranean and Asia. There are a few different species of vitex, but Vitex agnus-castus is most commonly used as a herbal supplement. This plant is sometimes also called chastetree, chasteberry, or monk’s pepper.

Can chasteberry cause weight gain?

Uncommon side effects include upset stomach, nausea, itching, rash, headaches, acne, trouble sleeping, and weight gain. Some women notice a change in menstrual flow when they start taking vitex agnus-castus.

Who should not take chasteberry?

Chasteberry can affect levels of hormones that play a key role in pregnancy, breastfeeding, menstruation, and even some breast cancers. You should not take chasteberry if you: Are pregnant or breastfeeding. Have breast cancer.

Are vitex trees fast growing?

Like most shrubs, vitex is best planted in the spring to give it plenty of time to establish roots before winter dormancy. It is a fast-growing shrub that can shoot up as much as 7 feet in a single season, but most gardeners opt to keep this potentially invasive plant to 10 feet or less in height.

Is vitex tree invasive?

Vitex agnus-castus is a member of the Verbenaceae family, native to the woodlands and dry areas of Southern Europe and western Africa. We think you should also be aware that vitex is considered an invasive plant in several states.

Where does chaste tree grow?

Native to southern Europe and central Asia, chaste tree quickly grows into a multi-trunked tree about 10 to 20 feet tall and wide with a broad, spreading habit.

How long does it take chasteberry to work?

Irregular menstruation This condition is believed to be related to excessive prolactin release. After 3 months, the women who took chasteberry showed significant improvements.