- Lamiaceae
- Fruit (berry)
- Mediterranean · central Asia
- Whole dried berries
Vitex
Vitex agnus-castus
Select sizeThe plant
Vitex is an aromatic shrub with purple flower spikes. Its dried fruits are also called chasteberries.
What's in it
Iridoids and diterpenes are groups of natural plant compounds in the fruit. Flavonoids are another group present.
Casticin
A flavonoid used as the principal marker for standardisation.
Vitexin
A flavone glycoside named for the genus.
Diterpenes
Including rotundifuran, characteristic of the berry.
Volatile oil
Carrying cineole and sabinene — the peppery note.
How it works
Monthly-cycle tradition: Vitex is used in women’s herbal routines for symptoms before a period. Premenstrual means the days leading up to menstruation. Hormone context: Some preparations can influence hormonal signalling through the pituitary gland, a small gland beneath the brain. This explains the importance of choosing an appropriate preparation.
In the tradition
A Mediterranean plant used in European women’s herbal practice.
Its peppercorn-like fruits are also called monk’s pepper.
- 1Steep 1–2 tsp dried vitex berries in 250ml hot water for 10–15 mins.
- 2Drink 1 cup daily in the morning — consistent morning dosing aligns with pituitary rhythms.
- 3Mild, slightly peppery, aromatic flavour.
- 4Best used consistently for 3–6 months for full hormonal effect — this is a slow-acting, deep-acting herb.
- 5Often combined with red clover or raspberry leaf for women’s blends.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
- Check hormonal contraception, fertility treatment and dopamine-related medicines.
- Avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding unless specifically advised.
- On hormonal contraceptives or HRT: may interact with pituitary hormones; check with your doctor.
- On dopamine-related medication (antipsychotics, Parkinson’s drugs): dopaminergic activity; check with your doctor.
- Hormone-sensitive cancers: check with your doctor.
- Men: traditionally used as an anti-libido herb; may reduce testosterone.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare vitex?
Vitex is steeped as an infusion. Steep 1–2 tsp dried vitex berries in 250ml hot water for 10–15 mins. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is vitex?
Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) belongs to the Lamiaceae family; the fruit (berry) is used. Origin: Mediterranean, central Asia. A well-known berry traditionally used for premenstrual wellbeing.
How should I store dried vitex?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
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