What is Vitex Agnus Castus?

Chasteberry, or Vitex agnus castus , is a plant that has long been used in traditional medicine.

The name Monk's Pepper comes from an old custom in the Middle Ages, where monks used the fruit of the plant to suppress their libido, which was seen as supporting their celibate lifestyle.

The herb was also called "the chaste tree" because of this effect.

Today, Chasteberry supplements are used to support hormonal balance, especially in women who suffer from complaints related to the menstrual cycle or menopause . (1)

The Monk's Pepper plant

Chasteberry is a herb with blue-purple flowers that thrives in sunny environments.

The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is cultivated for medicinal use as well as an ornamental plant.

The active parts are the leaves, flowers, and fruits. These contain substances that may influence your hormones.

The effects of Vitex agnus castus (Monk's Pepper)

Vitex agnus castus supplements may help lower prolactin production.

Prolactin is a hormone involved in milk production, but it can also affect the menstrual cycle.

When prolactin is too high, it can disrupt the balance of other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. (1)

Chasteberry can help support this hormonal balance. This may help alleviate menopausal and PMS symptoms , such as breast tenderness and mood swings. (2)

Good to know : Please note that the effects may vary from person to person and it may take some time before you notice results.

Active ingredients in Chasteberry

The main active ingredients in Vitex agnus castus are:

• Diterpenes (especially clerodadienols) : Have properties similar to dopamine, which helps regulate prolactin.
• Iridoid glycosides (especially agnusides and aucibine) : Support the balance of hormones that play a role in the menstrual cycle.
• Flavonoids : Work as antioxidants and protect the body from free radical damage.

The best dosage of monk's pepper

The recommended dosage of chasteberry supplements depends on the product, but it usually ranges from 20 mg to 40 mg per day of the standardized extract (usually 0.6% agnuside, an active ingredient).

Helpful Tip: It's important to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it depending on how your body responds.

Side effects of Chasteberry

Chasteberry supplements are generally well tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects, such as:

• Stomach complaints
• Changes in menstrual cycle

Helpful Tip: I recommend discussing the use of Chasteberry supplements with a doctor or healthcare professional if you are pregnant , breastfeeding , or taking other medications .

Sources used

1. Van Die, M., Burger, H., Teede, H., & Bone, K. (2012). Vitex agnus-castus Extracts for Female Reproductive Disorders: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. Planta Medica , 79 (07), 562–575. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0032-1327831
2. Souto, E. B., Durazzo, A., Nazhand, A., Lucarini, M., Zaccardelli, M., Souto, S. B., Silva, A. M., Severino, P., Novellino, E., & Santini, A. (2020). Vitex agnus-castus L.: Main Features and Nutraceutical Perspectives. Forests , 11 (7), 761. https://doi.org/10.3390/f11070761