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| A mature vitex shrub |
The precursor to the modern system of pharmaceutical
healthcare was based on traditional herbal medicine. As ancient nomads and
hunter-gatherers began to settle in geographically regular locations they
became familiar with the plants, herbs, and other natural forms of life endemic
to those areas. Living so closely among nature resulted in the eventual
discovery of the medicinal qualities of various plants. Particular plants were
revered as being useful in the treatment of a variety of ailments. One such
plant is vitex, a shrub native to Greece and Italy whose berries and leaves
have been used in herbal medicine for over 2000 years.
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| A bee pollinating a vitex flower |
First conceived of as an herbal boon in ancient Greece,
vitex was recognized as a resource for women experiencing gynecological issues.
The berries of the tree, brown in color and about the size of peppercorns, were
originally brewed and blended into teas and tinctures. The reputation of vitex
made it well known throughout the Mediterranean region, and eventually the
Roman empire introduced the herb to Silk Road trading routes. The shrub
travelled throughout the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia.
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| The berries of a vitex shrub |
Often referred to as “women’s herb,” vitex exerts a powerful
influence on the female hormonal system. Although it contains no hormones
itself, vitex contains dopaminergic compounds (organic molecules closely
mimicking the naturally produced neurotransmitter dopamine) which act upon the
pituitary gland and hypothalamus. In women, this has the effect of increasing
luteinizing hormone, modulating prolactin, and inhibiting the release of
follicle-stimulating hormone, all of which contributes towards increasing the
ratio of progesterone to estrogen in the body. The hormonal balancing potential
of vitex helps to relieve PMS symptoms, reduce uterine fibroid, improve
fertility, treat endometriosis, remedy amenorrhea, promote lactation, and
decrease menopause symptoms.
The secondary benefits of vitex apply to both men and
women’s health. Vitex has been found to aid in the clearing of acne, treatment
of depression and mood swings, reduction of fevers, stimulation of
perspiration, alleviating insomnia, and fighting snake venom. Vitex has been
used to prevent and treat prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement) and
prostate cancer in men. In addition, vitex has long been associated with the
reduction of sexual appetite, earning it the name “chastetree” or
“chasteberry.”
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| Dried vitex berries |
Vitex should be taken daily for best results, however it may
not be several months until hormonal imbalances associated with menstrual
issues find relief. Vitex essential oil is the perfect purveyor of this
powerful herb. The concentrated oil may be mixed with a carrier oil (we prefer
Jojoba oil!) or lotion and applied to the pulse points on the body for relief
from PMS and menopausal symptoms. Use a diffuser or directly inhale from the
bottle for hormonal balance and stability. Vitex can even be used as a sleep
aid by placing a few drops of oil on fabric and placing that fabric underneath
your bed pillow.
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| The purple vitex flower |
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