Chaste Tree or Monk's Pepper (Vitex agnus castus) - The Chaste Tree or Monk’s Pepper is a pre... | Classical Remedies

The Chaste Tree or Monk’s Pepper is a pretty deciduous small tree and belongs to the Verbena family and comes from the Mediterranean areas and areas of western Asia. It will grow to be around 4m tall and has attractive marijuana-like leaves. Masses of violet, blue or white flower spikes are borne in summer which are highly attractive to bees and butterflies.The flowers are followed by hard brown to black fruits containing 4 seeds. The fruit is used medicinally and in its ground form is called Agnus castus which has a very bitter taste apart from its medicinal value, it is an attractive garden specimen.

Cultivation

Chaste Tree's can be propagated by seeds laid in spring or by cuttings. It will grow in sun or shade and is drought tolerant. 

Health Benefits and uses of Chaste Tree
 

• was used to stop hemorrhaging
• treatment for a range of menstrual problems such as PMS 
• traditional use was as an an-aphrodisiac ( the opposite of aphrodisiac) reduces libido. 

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Chaste Tree

• This herb should not be taken by pregnant women

• Fast heartbeats

• Hair loss

• Bleeding between menstrual periods

• Dry mouth

• Headache

• Itching
• Nausea 
• Rash

• may effect female hormone levels