Tag: Vitex agnus castus

A case report published in the Journal of College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan details a patient who developed a colonic obstruction after ingesting Vitex seeds. While some herbal lore and online shops mention the possibility of chewing the seeds, modern medical evidence and expert consensus point to serious risks associated with this practice. Before considering chewing Vitex seeds, it is critical to understand the potential health dangers and why standardized extracts are the recommended option.

While often used in capsules and extracts, chasteberry has a long history of being brewed as a medicinal tea, dating back to ancient Greece. This guide will show you how to make chasteberry tea from the dried berries, ensuring you get the most from this powerful herb.

Historically, monks allegedly used chaste tree berries, also known as monk's pepper, to reduce sexual desire. While this ancient tradition suggests a form of consumption, the question remains: are chaste berries edible for general consumption today? The answer is nuanced, depending on context, form, and intended use, with significant differences between culinary and medicinal applications.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, some preclinical studies suggest that chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) supplementation may not be safe for women with hormone-sensitive conditions. While often praised for its herbal benefits, understanding what are the negative effects of chaste trees is crucial before using this plant or its supplements. These effects range from mild side effects in some individuals to more significant contraindications related to hormonal health and medication interactions.