Chaste Berry (A.K.A. Vitex)
(Vitex agnus-castus)
Energetics: Cooling.
Taste: Bitter. Acrid.
Tissue States:
Systems Affected: Reproductive system.
Parts Used: Fruit.
Key Components: Iridoid glycosides (Acubin, agnoside). Flavonoids (Casticin. Isovitexin. Orientin.). Volatile oils. Bitter principle (castine).
Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Tincture:
Actions:
Foundational:
Primary: Emmenogogue.
Secondary: Tonic. Amphoteric.
Uses:
Stimulates and regulates the pituitary gland, specifically progesterone production and function. Increases production of leutenizing hormones (progesterone). Enhances progesterone cycle and inhibits release of FSH. Normalizes estrogen.
Regulating and normalizing menstrual cycle, PMS. Endometriosis. Helps to maintain balance in the emotions before and during menstrual cycle. Excellent choice for normalizing the reproductive system after stopping birth control.
Stimulates prolactin which makes it valuable for nursing mothers who want to ensure a healthy supply of milk for their babies. Take for 1 week before expected birth and 10 days after (Rosemary Gladstar).
Has an amphoteric action and seems to normalize rather than raising or lowering anything, it will make happen what needs to be to regulate function.
For more chronic conditions, meant to be taken over a long period of time, up to a year or more.
Aphrodisiac AND an anaphrodisiac depending on what is needed.
Especially useful for changes associated with menopause.
Combines well with: Turmeric. Oregon Grape Root.
Identifying:
Growing:
Harvesting: Harvest the very dark blue/black berries when they are fully ripe around October/November.
Contraindications:
Sources:
The Complete Herbs Sourcebook: David Hoffman. Pg 239
Herbal Healing for Women: Rosemary Gladstar. Pg 257-258
The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 204-205
The Earthwise Herbal: Volume 1: Matthew Wood. Pg 523-526
Studies:
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor is it intended to replace medical advice. For educational purposes only.
Comments
Post a Comment