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Also known as:
Chaste Tree
Uses:
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
• Period pain
• Teenage acne
Description:
This herb has a long tradition of use as a general balancer for the female
hormones. Despite its common name, Chaste Tree, Agnus castus is actually a
shrub found in the Mediterranean. The fruit of the plant is used in phytotherapy
and gives off a pleasant peppermint-like smell.
How it works:
Agnus castus acts on the pituitary gland to increase the secretion of luteinising
hormone, which leads to an increase in the production of progesterone during
the second half of the menstrual cycle. It has also been reported to inhibit
prolactin.
Both these actions are thought to be important in PMS, particularly as many
who suffer with the problem have a greater sensitivity to prolactin. Agnus
castus has also been found to be beneficial in the treatment of acne in both
men and women.
Additional advice:
Do not take if using oral contraceptives or HRT.
