THE HERBWIFE SPEAKS: CHASTEBERRY
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Latin Name:
VitexAgnus-CastusWhere Found:Mediterranean and Central Asia
Parts Used: Dried Berries
Used As: Tincture, powdered berries, infusion
When To Use:Vitex is a plant I have recently started working with regularly because menopause is stirring every so slightly. Vitex is a hormone balancing herb so it is quite valuable in regulating the hormones during menopause. Vitex has also been found to increase fertility in women and is a useful plant to use when attempting in-vitro fertilization. In cases of homone triggered acne vitex may help. Every woman should know about vitex. It regulates menstrual cycles, will relieve cramping, PMS, breast pain and fribrocystic breast issues, stop bloating and generally help most reproductive hormone related complants. The only drawback in using vites is it takes a very long time to begin working. Vitex should be used daily for at least three months before imporvement may be noticed. One dropperful of ticture should be taken twice a day or 20mg of powdered berries would be the usual amount to taken. Vitex has no side effects that are known so it can be used daily for years (menopause does take YEARS)without a problem. I have been taking vitex for about two months and have found that my PMS surges of tension and anger have calmed down alot. I just generally feel better and don't dread every months cycle. I have replaced evening primrose oil with vitex because of its known safety for long term use. Hippocrates suggested eating the berries for spleen problems.
Magickal Associations
Planetary Association:
Elemental Association:
Influences: This herb is funny to find associations for. Seems the common name Monk's Pepper has left this herb ignored by male "authorities". Vitex is called Chasteberry for it's reputation as an anti-aphrodisiac for men. Monks would use the ground berries like pepper on their food to avoid temptation. Ironically vitex is an aphrodisiac for most women and is for men too in larger doses. Young greek women wore the flowers of vitex around their necks during the festival for Demeter to signiify the remain chaste. In Athens women put the leaves of vitex in the beds of virgins during the feast for Ceres.
written at 11:26 a.m.
March 06, 2005
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