Agnus castus or Chaste Berry (Vitex agnus-castus L.)
Parts used:
dried fruit
Constituents: diterpenes, iridoid glycosides, flavonoids (including casticin), triglycerides, volatile oil
Pharmacopoeia Standard: the dried material should contain no less than 0.08 per cent of casticin.
Actions: dopaminergic, prolactin inhibiting
Indications: premenstrual syndrome, irregular or absent periods, breast tenderness
Applications: Increased levels of the hormone prolactin are often responsible for menstrual irregularities and pre-menstrual syndrome; agnus-castus has been shown to inhibit its production and clinical trials have demonstrated that this can help regularise the menstrual cycle, improving symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings, fluid retention and headache. Agnus-castus may also be used to treat acne with a hormonal cause.
Combinations: with Black Cohosh for premenstrual and menopausal problems; with Echinacea for acne; with feverfew for menstrual migraine.
Safety: Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Dosage: 400mg twice a day. Treatment should be continued for at least 3 months.
Bibliography
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