CategoriesPlants and Active Ingredients Guide

Chaste tree: Benefits, origin and use as a dietary supplement

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Gattilier : Bienfaits, origine et utilisation en complément alimentaire

1. Introducing Gattilier

Le Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as "monk's pepper", is a Mediterranean shrub that has been used since ancient times for its effects on female hormonal balance. It is particularly renowned for its action on the menstrual cyclethe menopause and the premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

2. Origin and habitat

Originally from Mediterranean basin and Central Asiathe Chaste tree grows in dry, sunny soil, along the banks of the coasts, rivers and rocky areas. Its berries, which resemble peppercorns, are the part used in phytotherapy.

3. Composition and active ingredients

Le Chaste tree is rich in active compounds which act on the endocrine system:

  • Diterpenes influence the production of progesterone and dopamineregulating female hormones.
  • Flavonoids antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress.
  • Iridoids with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

4. Benefits and properties

🌿 Regulation of the menstrual cycle and PMS
  • Relieves menstrual pain and irregular periods.
  • Reduces bloating, migraines and mood swings related premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  • Helps to rebalance progesteroneoften unbalanced during the premenstrual period.
🌿 Menopause support
  • Reduces hot flushes and sleep disorders.
  • Promotes better emotional balance during the menopause.
🌿 Effect on fertility
  • Improveshormonal balance in the event of oestrogen/progesterone imbalance.
  • Can support anovulatory cycles in some women.
🌿 Soothing and relaxing properties
  • Positive effect on stress and anxiety thanks to its action on dopamine.
  • Helps reduce symptoms of hormonal depression.

5. Use as a food supplement

Le Chaste tree is available in several forms:

  • Dry extract in capsules → Dosed with active ingredients.
  • Mother tincture → Use in drops, diluted in water.
  • Infusion → Less concentrated, but effective with regular use.

📌 Recommended dosage

Dosages vary according to need:

  • PMS and cycle disorders 200 to 400 mg of dry extract per day.
  • Menopause 200 mg per day.
  • Infusion 1 teaspoon of dried berries for 250 ml of hot water, to be drunk 1 or 2 times a day.

6. Precautions for use and contraindications

⚠️ Le Chaste tree is a powerful plant that requires a few precautions:

  • Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women.
  • Do not combine with hormonal treatments without medical advice.
  • May interact with certain antidepressants and dopaminergic drugs.
  • Possible side effects digestive problems, headaches, slight skin rashes.

7. Suggested associations

For a enhanced effectChaste tree can be combined with :

Passionflower → Calming effect and hormonal relaxation.

Evening primrose → Relief from premenstrual syndrome.

Maca → Energy and hormonal support.