Agnus castus

A.Vogel Agnus castus is a licensed herbal remedy which can be used to help relieve symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) such as menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, bloating, irritability and mood swings. Always read the leaflet.

Each ml of oral liquid contains 895mg of tincture and is an extract of the fruit of Agnus castus (Vitex agnus-castus L.) (1:10). Ethanol 69.5% V/V

Women experiencing premenstrual symptoms: 15 to 20 drops in a little water twice daily.

Taking the maximum daily dose, you get 1,000 mg of Agnus castus extract, equivalent to 100mg dried berries.

The effects of this product may not be felt immediately. For best results you may need to take this product for up to 3 months.

Do not take more than 40 drops a day. Not for use in children or those under 18 years of age. Do not use if you have a pituitary gland disorder.

*Do not use if pregnant, breast-feeding or on hormonal contraceptives including the pill, implant, injection or the Mirena coil.

See your doctor before taking any form of Agnus castus if you are suffering from an oestrogen-sensitive cancer, have suffered from a pituitary disorder or are taking dopamine agonists, or  antagonists, oestrogens (such as hormonal contraceptives) or anti-oestrogens.

As with all herbal products or supplements, side effects can occur with use of Agnus castus. The frequency of these side effects is not known – this means it is not known how often these reactions occur as there have not been enough reports to allow this information to be calculated.

Possible side effects resulting from use of Agnus castus are:

• Headaches, dizziness, acne or menstrual disorders
• Digestive symptoms such as nausea or abdominal pain
• Allergic skin reactions
• Other allergic reactions – severe swelling of the face, breathlessness and difficulty swallowing. If these occur, stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical advice.

Agnus castus is also sometimes known by scientists as Vitex agnus castus and because of this, some refer to it simply as Vitex. It is a shrub which grows up to 5m in height with delicate lavender or violet flowers. The plant grows mainly in the Mediterranean, although it also thrives in sub-tropical regions of Africa and the USA.

It is the fruit from the plant which is used medicinally. This use has been recorded since the time of Hippocrates. It was believed to be an anti-aphrodisiac, which explains some of the common names applied to Agnus castus including ‘Chaste Tree’, ‘Monk’s Pepper’ and ‘Chasteberry’.

1. How long will I need to take Agnus castus before I see an effect?

This varies from one person to another. Some women report an improvement in symptoms within the first month, but you may need to take Agnus castus for 3 months for the best results to be evident.

See your doctor if your symptoms persist, worsen or do not improve after 3 months.

2. I am on the Pill – is it ok for me to use Agnus castus?

No, anyone using hormonal contraceptives, whether the Pill, an injection, an implant or the Mirena coil, should not use herbs such as Agnus castus that affect hormone levels.

3. Is there anyone else who can’t take Agnus castus?

• Agnus castus is not suitable for women under 18 years of age
• It should not be taken by those allergic to any of the ingredients of the product
• Do not use if you have a pituitary disorder
• Do not use if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breast-feeding.