Agnus castus (chaste tree) for fertility

On this page

1. What is agnus castus?
2. Function and how it works
3. Fertility benefits
4. Recommended daily dose
5. Sources
6. Cautions and contraindications
7. My Fertility Guide
8. Related pages

1. What is agnus castus?

Agnus castus — also known as Vitex agnus-castus, chaste tree or chasteberry — is a Mediterranean shrub whose dried berries have been used for centuries to support female reproductive health. The name comes from its historical reputation for decreasing sexual desire and "promoting chastity" in women, although in modern practice it is mainly used to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce premenstrual symptoms.

Reference ranges and recommended intakes vary from country to country — always interpret guidance against the recommendations of your own healthcare authority.

2. Function and how it works

Agnus castus supports fertility through:

1. Prolactin reduction. Agnus castus binds to dopamine receptors on the pituitary, gently lowering elevated prolactin levels that can suppress ovulation.
2. Cycle regulation. By balancing prolactin and supporting healthy LH release, agnus castus regulates the menstrual cycle, particularly when cycles are irregular or long.
3. Progesterone support. Agnus castus may modestly increase corpus luteum function and progesterone levels, supporting the luteal phase.
4. PMS relief. Multiple research studies have shown agnus castus reduces PMS symptoms, including breast tenderness, mood swings and bloating.

3. Fertility benefits

Agnus castus is most beneficial for women with:

1. Irregular menstrual cycles (oligomenorrhoea)
2. Mildly elevated prolactin
3. Luteal phase defect
4. PMS, particularly breast tenderness
5. Premenstrual spotting

4. Recommended daily dose

I recommend a daily dose of 10–15 drops of agnus castus tincture, taken in the morning with water. Standardised tablet preparations are also available. Allow at least three menstrual cycles for full effect.

5. Sources

Agnus castus is taken as a herbal extract, not as a food. It is available as:

1. Liquid tincture (the most common form)
2. Standardised tablets (e.g. 4 mg of dried extract)
3. Tea (less concentrated)

6. Cautions and contraindications

1. Discontinue agnus castus once pregnancy is confirmed.
2. Do NOT take agnus castus if you are taking the contraceptive pill, fertility drugs (Clomid), HRT or dopamine-active medications.
3. Agnus castus is not appropriate for PCOS with high LH:FSH ratio — it may worsen the imbalance.
4. Mild side effects can include headaches, nausea or skin rash — discontinue if these occur.
5. Always consult with a fertility specialist or your doctor before starting any new supplement regime.

7. My Fertility Guide

8. Related pages

• Fertility supplements directory
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) — works synergistically for PMS
• Dong quai
• Prolactin
• Progesterone
• Luteal phase defect
• Irregular menstrual cycle