Vitex berry - Latin Name: (Vitex negundo)

Herbal Anecdote: Pliny, the Greek natural historian (AD 23-79) - It is said that those who keep a twig in their hand or in their girdle do not suffer from chafing between the thighs.

Traditional Uses: The ancients ascribed many magical powers to this plant, and it was considered an important healing herb among the common people during the following centuries. Throughout Europe, where herbal medicine has more of an unbroken tradition than it does in the United States, agnus castus or "vitex" as it is usually called here, is often used to help relieve the symptoms associated with female hormonal imbalances such as the depression, cramps, mood swings, water retention and weight gain associated with the menstrual cycle (PMS-associated symptoms). In European herbalism and medical practice, Vitex extracts are also prescribed for uterine fibroid cysts and to help alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of menopause.