Monk's pepper – Vitex agnus castus
In colloquial language, monk's pepper is also called ‘chaste tree’. The name is based on the use of the plant in the Middle Ages. At that time, nuns and monks used the plant to make it easier for them to keep their vows of chastity.
Regulates hormone levels
Fields of application
The ingredients of monk's pepper include essential oils, flavonoids, iridoid glycosides and agnuside. The medicinal plant is used primarily for premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It has been confirmed to have a soothing effect on irritability, mood swings, anger, headaches and breast tenderness. It can also be used to successfully treat skin problems, abdominal discomfort, nervous tension, mood swings, fatigue and sleep problems associated with premenstrual syndrome and menstrual disorders. Monk's pepper is also regularly used to treat menopausal symptoms because it regulates hormonal balance. It balances out cycle fluctuations and is often used in pre-menopause for irregular monthly cycles.
Botanical characteristics
The deciduous shrub can grow up to 6 metres high. Its light brown branches bear pinnate leaves up to 10 centimetres long, which resemble hemp. Its dense inflorescences with pale blue flowers are striking. The fruits of monk's pepper, which are used to make medicines, are small reddish-black stone berries. The plant originates from the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. From there, it spread as far as Northwest India. The shrub thrives best in humid coastal areas and on the banks of rivers and streams.