Exploring the Mindfulness of Vitex Berry (Vitex agnus-castus)
By Tricia Ambroziak, NAHA Certified Professional Aromatherapist®
This article originally appeared in the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) Journal (Summer 2023.2) and it is re-published here according to the NAHA Writer Guidelines 2024 copyright statement. To learn more about NAHA visit: https://naha.org/
On a typical morning, I saunter into the kitchen enjoying the morning sun and playful chattering of birds as I boil water for tea. I retrieve my favorite, vibrant, red-flowered mug – first for a cup of green tea followed by an herbal tea blend that includes vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus).
Vitex berry, also known as Vitex agnus-castus, is an integral part of my own wellness journey. Known also as Abraham’s balm, chaste berry, lilac chaste tree, and monk’s pepper V. agnus-castus has a long history of use for women’s health. If you are not familiar with vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus), you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover the versatility and effectiveness of this herb, hydrosol, and essential oil for women’s health. But be warned, it is a plant that requires a good dose of mindfulness. It seeks to support and balance and requests our attention. And along the way we’ll also learn why it’s associated with monks and chastity. Please join me on a literary journey to explore this fascinating and beneficial plant.
Botany and Distribution
Vitex agnus-castus is a fragrant shrub of the Lamiaceae family (formerly the Verbenaceae family) native to the Mediterranean and Asia. Although it typically grows 10 – 15 feet (3 – 4.5 m) with 5 – 8 feet (1.5 – 2.4 m) spread, some cultivars can reach up to 20 feet (6 m) in height and width.1,2,3
Vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) has an open, erect, habit with gray-green fragrant leaves with gray undersides. The leaves are compound palmate with 5 – 7 lance-shaped leaflets that can grow up to 6 inches in length (15 cm). Loose panicles of lavender to pale violet flowers of up to 12 inches (30 cm) appear mid to late summer attracting butterflies and bees.2
The plant flourishes best in well drained, moderately moist, loose soil, with full sun in zones 6-9. In zones 5-6, plants may die during the winter, but the roots often survive to yield new growth the following year.1,2
This showy, late summer bloomer makes a lovely addition to landscaping and gardens, and its berries are best harvested in autumn when they are fully ripe.
Tales of Chasity, Lambs, and a Woman’s Best Friend: Ethnomedicinal, Traditional, and Modern Uses of V. agnus-castus
The Vitex genus includes some 250 species distributed worldwide, however only V. agnus-castus and V. negundo are typically used medicinally.4
The term “agnus castus” is Latin for “chaste lamb.” The berry was used to promote chastity among monks during the Middle Ages who used the ground herb to spice their food – not so much for the taste but rather to supposedly squelch sexual urges.
Branches were carried by virgins in Ancient Rome to symbolize their purity. It’s not clear why the herb had a reputation for promoting chastity, but as a drying and warming herb it was thought to “dry up the seed” in those with extra heat. Herbalist Christopher Hobbs also notes the leaves and branches of the plant are “foul-smelling.” A trait that would likely deter amorous advances when strewn on a bed or carried about.5
Traditionally the fruits or berries of V. agnus-castus have been used for a wide range of female conditions including amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual disorder, menopause discomforts, infertility, disrupted lactation, cyclic breast pain, inflammatory conditions, and digestive discomforts. The leaves and fruits have also been used to increase milk production in Iranian traditional medicine.4
Dioscorides (40 – 90 CE), an ancient Greek physician, suggested vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) to “expel the menstrual flow” and for a bath to quell hip and uterine inflammation and discomforts. He noted its warming, astringent, and galactagogue properties.5
Hippocrates’ writing reflects the herbs use in menstrual disorders: “If blood flows from the womb let the woman drink dark wine in which the leaves of the chaste tree have been steeped.” 6
The shrub has also been used traditionally to treat epilepsy, chastity, and spleen enlargement, but its modern use is primarily as an herb to normalize the menstrual cycle, balance hormones, ease PMS and dysmenorrhea, to enhance fertility, and as a galactagogue.7
Herbalist David Hoffmann notes V. agnus-castus works indirectly via the pituitary to normalize progesterone and estrogen although the exact mode of action has not been clearly established.8
Most modern herbalists use vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) for menstrual irregularities, PMS, and pain noting that consistent daily, long-term use of at least three months is needed to see results. Herbalists also find V. agnus-castus a powerful ally during menopause to help decrease hot flashes and reduce other menopausal symptoms as well as maintain regular cycles, reduce cramps, fibroids, and breast lumps.9
Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, chemist, aromatherapist, and founder of the Pacific Institute of Aromatherapy describes V. agnus-castus as a “women’s best friend” and notes that vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) has “shown to be a singularly effective agent to re-equilibrate progesterone and estrogen levels” and to have “pronounced benefits for PMS and menopausal complaints.”10 The essential oil reportedly can act as a dopamine agonist and its potential use for Parkinson’s disease and other central nervous system disorders holds potential for investigation.11
Aromatherapist Amy Kreydin shares that she uses the hydrosol to help ease clients’ hot flashes, night sweats, and ease mood swings in menopausal women. She also notes it may be a gentle support tool for women suffering with poly cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 12
Aromatherapist Linda Bosson recommends using the hydrosol for premenstrual syndrome, hormone-based migraines, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and weight gain linked to menopausal disorders. She also notes its use as an emotional balancer, appetite regulator, skin purifier, and overall support for issues linked to change.13
We’ll dive into more specific ways to use the herb, hydrosol, and essential oil below.
Some of the Science Surrounding V. agnus-castus
In a review of the genus Vitex, the authors noted that “clinical studies demonstrated that extracts of the dried fruits of V. agnus-castus are beneficial in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome, abnormal menstrual cycle, amenorrhea, mastodynia, and hyperprolactinemia…” 4
Dr. Jean M. Bokelmann from the Department of Family Medicine at Idaho State University notes that V. agnus-castus may be beneficial for women having trouble conceiving due to its ability to reduce the hormone prolactin, which is elevated in times of stress. She also notes its benefits for premenstrual syndrome and perimenopause.14
In a review of herbal treatments for premenstrual symptoms V. agnus-castus appeared to “consistently ameliorate PMS better than the placebo.”15
The herb also has opioidergic, dopaminergic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative properties. Its efficacy is attributed to its agonist activity on dopamine-2 receptors.14
Low doses of V. agnus-castus may enhance milk production in nursing mothers.4
Studies of the essential oil demonstrated that it offers significant anti-bacterial activity as well as relief from common menopausal symptoms.16
Overall, there is good clinical evidence that supports the effectiveness of V. agnus-castus herb, essential oil, and hydrosol for women’s health.
The Chemistry of V. agnus-castus
The constituents of the berry include iridoid glycosides, labdane diterpenes, flavonoids, and essential oils.8
The essential oil from the berry typically contains significant amounts of sabinene, 1,8 cineole, α and β-pinene, γ-elemene, β-farnesene, β-caryophyllene, α -terpineol, and limonene along with lesser amounts of numerous other aromatic compounds.17
Although gas chromatography, mass spectrometry (GCMS) data for the hydrosol is not readily available, one might guess the hydrosol to contain aromatic compounds that typically make their way into hydrosols such as 1,8 cineole, α -terpineol, and limonene.
How to Incorporate V. agnus-castus Herb, Hydrosol, or Essential Oil into Your Routine or Practice
Herbalist David Hoffman describes the actions of vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) as a “hormone normalizer, uterine tonic, and galactagogue” (enhances milk production). He notes that it can stimulate and normalize the pituitary gland particularly as it relates to progesterone function. The herb seems to help the body do what it needs. It is particularly useful for dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and may help restore balance after stopping oral contraceptives. It is quite beneficial during menopause.8 I have personally found V. agnus-castus berry to be quite helpful when used as a tea for both myself and others.
Herbalist David Hoffman suggests using 1 tsp. of berries per cup of boiling water steeped for 10 – 15 minutes and drunk three times a day.8
Herbalist Richard Whelan notes that the herb has been “a tremendous ally to [a] great many women” in his practice but that it may not be the right herb for every woman and that getting the dosing right is important.18 If you are interested in using a tincture or dried herb it is best to consult an herbalist or used a prepared tincture or capsule as directed.
The hydrosol I use is distilled from ripe berries and leaves. It has a floral, woodsy, slightly camphoraceous aroma to me. It is not as readily available as other hydrosols.
Aromatherapist Lydia Bosson suggests adding 1 tsp. (5mL) of hydrosol per 1 liter of water to drink before and during periods to counter PMS and acne breakouts or ease menopausal discomforts. She also suggested adding 1-2 tsp. (5- mL to 10-mL) to a bath for menopausal problems.13
Aromatherapist Amy Kreydin reaches for vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) hydrosol to ease mild mood swings, hot flashes, and night sweats in clients. She adds equal parts V. agnus-castus hydrosol and either lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) or sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana) hydrosol and instructs clients to store the bottle in the fridge and spritz their bed sheets where their chest and hips lay.12
It can also be spritzed directly on the face and back of neck when hot flashes occur.
The essential oil I use is earthy, pungent, woodsy, and lightly camphoraceous and distilled from the berries and leaves of the plant.
Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt notes the essential oil has been helpful for a variety of symptoms related to hormonal imbalance such as menopause, PMS, andropause, and menstrual discomfort.11
Aromatherapist Barbara Lucks saw improvement of menopausal discomforts after 2 -3 months of using the essential oil in 80% of participants she followed in her research.11,19
Like the herb, the dosing of the essential oil will vary from person to person. Simple inhalation or diffusion may be enough for some while others may benefit from topical application of the essential oil (diluted in an appropriate carrier). Try adding the essential oil to a diffuser blend, inhaler, or simply inhaling from the bottle several times daily. Refer to the Calm and Cool Aroma Inhaler blend formulation in this article for inspiration. Add a drop or two to a sachet or cloth and tuck it into your pillow before bed or diffuse at bedtime. The important thing is to be consistent and note how you feel.
For topical use, start with a low dose of vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) essential oil diluted in a carrier oil or lotion and apply once or twice daily to pulse points, back of neck, or abdomen. Refer to the Calming and Cooling Roll-on blend formulation in this article for further information on how to do this.
Tisserand notes that when the essential oil was used topically at 1.5% daily, 5-7 days per week for three months, 23% of women experienced a worsening of symptoms.17
Thus, it seems wise to perhaps begin with inhalation and if there is no improvement in symptoms try using the essential oil topically at a low dose (diluted in a suitable carrier) or consider using the herb as a tea, tincture, or capsule.
Vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) has been a powerful plant ally for me personally as well as for my family and clients. My advice is to appreciate its potency, be consistent in use, and if it exacerbates symptoms reduce use or seek out another herb, essential oil, or hydrosol.
Vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) is an herb that reminds us to be mindful and in tune with the beauty and rhythms of our body.
Calm and Cool Aroma Inhaler
Vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) can be helpful in supporting a variety of women’s health issues and benefits can be seen with even low doses with consistent use. An aroma inhaler is a convenient way to enjoy the calming support of vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) essential oil as needed. This inhaler blend offers a calming and soothing floral aroma that will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Equipment:
· One aroma inhaler
· Gloves
· Ceramic or glass dish or bowl
· Tweezers
· Label
Essential Oils:
· 4 drops bergamot (Citrus × bergamia)
· 4 drops palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii)
· 4 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
· 1 drop ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata)
· 2 drops vitex berry (V. agnus-castus)
To Make: Place blank inhaler wick in dish or bowl. Drip essential oils onto the wick and allow to soak in. Use tweezers to mop up excess oils if needed. Use tweezers to place wick inside inhaler housing and snap on end cap to seal. Label inhaler with date, essential oil names, and purpose. Wash dish and tweezers with warm soapy water.
To Use: Uncap inhaler and place near one nostril with other lightly pressed closed. Inhale as needed (one to three minutes). Repeat with the other nostril. Cap inhaler until next use. Use several times daily for at least two to three cycles to ease symptoms of PMS or menopausal discomforts. If symptoms worsen discontinue use. If there is little to no relief a topical application or use of the herb internally may be needed.
Cautions: For adult use only. Avoid use during pregnancy, nursing, or while using hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement medications (HRT).
Calming and Cooling Roll-On
This roll-on blend is perfect for use on-the-go or to have handy at your bedside when uncomfortable flushes occur. Be consistent in the use of vitex berry (Vitex agnus-castus) essential oil to help create balance and ease uncomfortable symptoms of PMS or menopause. It has an uplifting floral-herbal aroma with hints of sweet grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi) and rosy notes of palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii). Peppermint (Mentha × piperita), palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii), and geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oils cool and calm while grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi) and peppermint (Mentha × piperita) essential oils refresh and boost mood.
Equipment:
· Three roll-on tubes with caps
· Gloves
· Small beaker (50 – 100mL)
· Glass or metal stir rod
· Funnel
· Label
Ingredients:
· 30mL jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis)
Essential Oils:
· 5 drops rose grapefruit (Citrus× paradisi)
· 4 drops palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii)
· 3 drops peppermint (Mentha × piperita)
· 1 drop geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
· 2 drops vitex berry (V. agnus-castus)
To Make: Add jojoba to beaker. Add essential oils to jojoba and mix well with stir rod to combine. Use funnel to add about 10mL of mixture to each roll-on tube. Cap and add label.
To Use: Uncap and roll onto wrists, temples (avoid eye area), or back of neck to cool flushes. Use once or twice daily on the wrists or back of neck for two to three months to support hormonal balance. If symptoms worsen discontinue use. If little change occurs you may need to increase use or add internal use of the herb to your routine.
Cautions: For adult use only. Avoid use during pregnancy, nursing, or while using hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement medications (HRT).
References:
1. Missouri Botanical Gardens website, Vitex agnus-castus, accessed from: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g290
2. North Carolina Extension Gardner Plant Toolbox website, Vitex agnus-castus, accessed from: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/vitex-agnus-castus/
3. Britannica website, Chaste Tree, accessed from: https://www.britannica.com/plant/chaste-tree
4. Rani A, Sharma A. The genus Vitex: A review. Pharmacogn Rev. 2013 Jul;7(14):188-98. doi: 10.4103/0973-7847.120522. PMID: 24347927; PMCID: PMC3841997.
5. Hobbs, Christopher. (1991). The Chaste Tree: Vitex agnus castus. Pharmacy in history. 33. 19-24.
6. Hechtman, L. (2013). Clinical Naturopathic Medicine. Elsevier. p.736.
7. The Herbarium website, Chaste Tree Berry Monograph, Accessed from: https://herbarium.theherbalacademy.com/monograph/chaste-tree-berry/
8. Hoffmann, David. (2003). Medical Herbalism. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press. pp. 595-596.
9. Weed, Susun. (1992). Menopausal Years. The Wise Woman Way. Woodstock, NY: Ash Tree Publishing.
10. Schnaubelt, K. (2011). The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Advanced Aromatherapy. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press. pp. 22, 86, 129, 134.
11. Kurt Schnaubelt Ph.D. Personal Blog website, Revisiting Vitex agnus castus: Woman’s Best Friend, accessed from: https://kurtschnaubelt.com/revisiting-vitex-agnus-castus-womans-best-friend/
12. Kreydin, A. (2017) Aromatic Waters: Therapeutic, Cosmetic, and Culinary Hydrosol Applications Austin, TX: The Barefoot Dragonfly. pp. 30-31.
13. Bosson, L. (2019), Hydrosol Therapy, London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers pp. 176-178.
14. Bokelmann, J. M. (2022) Medicinal Herbs in Primary Care: An Evidence-Guided Reference for Healthcare Providers, Elsevier, pp. 279-287.
15. Dante, G., & Facchinetti, F. (2011). Herbal treatments for alleviating premenstrual symptoms: a systematic review. Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics and gynaecology, 32(1), 42–51. https://doi.org/10.3109/0167482X.2010.538102
16. Senatore, F., Napolitano, F., & Dung, M. O. (2003). Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of essential oil from fruits of Vitex agnus-castus L.(Verbenaceae) growing in Turkey. Journal of Essential Oil-Bearing Plants, 6(3), 185-190.
17. Tisserand, R. and Young, R. (2014), Essential Oil Safety, China: Elsevier pp. 246-247.
18. Richard Whelan Medical Herbalist website, Vitex, accessed from: https://www.rjwhelan.co.nz/herbs%20A-Z/vitex.html#vit2
19. Chopin Lucks B. (2003). Vitex agnus castus essential oil and menopausal balance: a research update [Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery 8 (2003) 148-154]. Complementary therapies in nursing & midwifery, 9(3), 157–160. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1353-6117(03)00020-9
About Tricia Ambroziak
Patricia (Tricia) Ambroziak is a certified aromatherapist and cosmetic formulator with a background in biological science, education, and research. She has been blessed with 30 years of marriage and is mom to two amazing young adults. She enjoys exploring the wonder and power of plants, herbs, hydrosols, and essential oils and their role in supporting wellness. She is the owner of Aromatic Formulations by Tricia LLC and formulates products for several SoCal businesses, offer classes, as well as aromatherapy and cosmetic formulating and consulting services, and retails her own skin care, hair care, and aromatherapy products in stores and online. When she is not in the lab, she enjoys staying active in sunny, southern California. To learn more about Tricia visit her website at AromaticFormulations.com or connect on LinkedIn
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