Vitex Tincture (Chaste Tree Berry)

Vitex – Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex agnus-castus)

Traditionally used to: encourage cycle rhythm and hormonal harmony through the pituitary-ovarian axis | balance mood, skin or breast tenderness during cycles. 

Contains Certified Organic Vitex agnus-castus in a base of purified water and sugarcane alcohol. 

Overview

Vitex is a classic European herb traditionally used to encourage cycle rhythm and hormonal harmony by working gently through the pituitary–ovarian axis. Rather than supplying hormones, it’s understood to nudge the body’s own regulatory signals—especially useful where mood, skin, or breast comfort fluctuate with the cycle.

Active Constituents

• Iridoid glycosides: agnuside, aucubin (signature markers; anti-inflammatory, trophorestorative)
• Diterpenes (clerodane-type): rotundifuran, vitexilactone (dopaminergic activity at D₂ receptors)
• Flavonoids: casticin, kaempferol, quercetin (antioxidant; contribute to pituitary modulation)
• Essential oils (trace): 1,8-cineole, sabinene, limonene (aromatic, antimicrobial)
• Phenolic acids: caffeic, chlorogenic acids (antioxidant)

Medicinal Properties (as described in herbal literature)

• Endocrine modulator (pituitary-ovarian axis)
• Dopaminergic / prolactin-modulating
• Emmenagogue (supports cycle regularity)
• Thymoleptic (traditionally mood-steadying in cyclical contexts)
• Mastalgia-relieving (traditional use for cyclical breast tenderness)
• Anti-inflammatory & antioxidant (mild)

Traditional Uses

• To encourage regular cycles after periods of irregularity (e.g., post-stress or post-pill)
• For premenstrual tension with irritability, low mood, or breast fullness
• To support the luteal phase where there is a tendency to short cycles
• As a gentle harmoniser during the perimenopausal transition
• Historically used postpartum once breastfeeding is established to help the return of natural rhythm (note: may influence milk supply)

Scientific Insights

• Standardised Vitex extracts have shown benefits in clinical studies for premenstrual symptoms (mood, breast tenderness, fluid balance).
• Mechanism is thought to involve dopamine D₂ receptor activity in the pituitary, which can lower prolactin, indirectly supporting luteal progesterone balance.
• Constituents such as rotundifuran and casticin are associated with these pituitary effects; agnuside is commonly used as a quality marker.

• Antioxidant flavonoids and phenolic acids may contribute to tissue comfort and overall balance.

Energetic / Spiritual Qualities

Vitex is a plant of rhythm and patience—encouraging steady, incremental change. Energetically, it’s centring and clarifying, supporting clear boundaries and cyclical steadiness.

Adult Dosage 16 years and older:  20 drops in a small amount of water 3 x daily. Take for 8 to 10 weeks and then evaluate effects, as changes are gradual.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy: Not recommended.
• Lactation: May alter milk supply—use only with professional guidance.
• Hormonal meds: Use caution with hormonal contraceptives, HRT, fertility treatments; seek professional advice.
• Dopamine-active drugs: Caution with antipsychotics or dopamine agonists/antagonists.
• Discontinue if unusual headaches, rash, or digestive upset occur.

Disclaimer

Provided for educational purposes, reflecting traditional use and contemporary research. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified practitioner before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition.