Chaste Tree
(Vitex agnus-castus)
Synonyms: Vitex robusta, Angus-castus vulgaris
Common Names: Chaste Tree, Monks Pepper, Texas Lilac
Family: Verbenaceae
Personality: Performs under pressure
Description: Origins are believed to be a native of China, India and Southern Europe, but has been cultivated in the southern portion of North America for over 300 years. This large shrub is drought and heat tolerant and does flourish in the Texas climate. It bears the name Texas Lilac even though it is not native to Texas. Crushed leaves are aromatic and have a spicy smell.
Uses: Chaste tree berries are commonly utilized by women for its many beneficial activities. Chaste tree is often used by women with breast tenderness before their cycle. It has been used to stop heavy menstrual bleeding and duration. It also supports the progesterone levels produced in the ovaries. Moderating progesterone levels can help with anovulatory cycles, infertility, and other problems associated with low progesterone. Its use can alleviate some symptoms of PMS including anxiety and irritability. For men, it is an anaphrodisiac, reducing arousal and amorous sensations. This is where it gets the name monk’s pepper.
References:
Kane, Charles W. Medicinal Plants of the American Southwest. Lincoln Town Press, 2019
https://texasinvasives.org/plant_database/detail.php?symbol=VIAG
https://dcmga.com/north-texas-gardening/perennials/master-gardener-favorites/texas-vitex/
http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-213297
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