Vitex
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Vitex agnus-castus
Verbenaceae
Chasteberry, monk's pepper
South-West Turkey
Wild harvested
Steam distillation
Gökova, Turkey
October 2024
Berries
Middle/top
5 years
Description
Native to the Mediterranean and Central Asia, Vitex, also known as chasteberry, is a shrub that stands tall at 5-6 meters. With its long leaves, vibrant blue, violet, pink, or white flowers, and rich purple berries, it embodies beauty and tradition. Its botanical name (Vitex agnus-castus) derives from the Greek “agnos” and Latin “castus,” both meaning “chaste” or “pure”—a reflection of its historic significance.
A Time-Honored Remedy with Mythological Roots
Vitex has been celebrated in folk medicine for centuries, appearing in the works of ancient healers like Dioscorides and Hippocrates, and even in Greek mythology. Legend has it that Hera, the queen of the gods, was born under a chasteberry tree. In medieval times, Vitex was prized for its ability to suppress desire, earning it the nickname “monk’s pepper” as monks relied on its anaphrodisiac qualities to maintain chastity.
Pure, Potent, and Rare
Goya Botanicals Vitex Essential Oil is produced through unpressurized steam distillation of hand-harvested berries from the mountainous regions of southwest Turkey, this rare and precious oil offers a sweet, floral, and spicy aroma. Rich in sabinene, 1,8-cineole, and caryophyllene, it is a powerful, natural oil that brings both ancient wisdom and modern wellness together in every drop.
Uses & Benefits
In ancient Greece, vitex was believed to possess healing properties for those bitten by animals and for women experiencing cyclical menstrual pain and inflammation of the womb. Since the 17th century, it has also been widely used as a folk remedy. Extracts of vitex berries is commonly used in modern medicine, with clinical studies confirming its effectiveness in treating various menstrual disorders.
While different form of vitex has been in use for centuries, the application of its essential oil is relatively recent. However, research indicates that vitex essential oil demonstrates similar balancing effects to those associated with dried berries and extracts from both the berries and leaves.
In addition, biological activities of vitex essential oil have been identified, including insecticidal, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, molluscicidal and acaricidal.
Technical Documents
References & Disclaimer
Essential oils are highly concentrated, powerful herbal extracts derived from various plant sources. Due to their potent chemical compositions, they may exhibit strong biological and physiological effects on the body. The above information is drawn from available scientific research and traditional knowledge, as referenced in the accompanying list of sources. It is important to note that this content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any health condition.
While essential oils have been used for centuries in wellness practices, their effects can vary widely depending on factors such as individual health, application methods, and the specific oil in question. Therefore, Goya Botanicals does not assume responsibility for any adverse effects or harm that may result from the use of, or reliance upon, the information provided here. We strongly encourage users to consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating essential oils into any health regimen, especially in cases of pre-existing medical conditions, pregnancy, or for use with children.
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Hobbs, C. (1991). The chaste tree: Vitex agnus-castus. Pharmacy in History, 33(1), 19–24
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Neumann-Kuhnelt B., Stief G., Schmiady H., Kentenich H. (1993). Investigations on possible effects of the phytotherapeutic agent Agnus-castus on the follicular and corpus luteum phases. Human Reproduction 8, 110.
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Lucks, B. C., Sørensen, J., Veal, L. (2002). Vitex agnus-castus essential oil and menopausal balance: A self-care survey. Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery, 8(3), 148–154.
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Omikorede, O., Lawal, O.A., Iresemowo, A.O. (2012). Volatile constituents, antibacterial and insecticidal activities of essential oil from the leaves of Vitex agnus-castus L.(Verbenaceae).Can.J.Comp.Math.Nat.Sci.Eng. Med., 3, 256-260.
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Saraç, N., Uğur, A. & Şen, B. (2015). The cytotoxic activity of Vitex agnus-castus L.essential oils and their biochemical mechanisms. Ind. Crop. Prod., 63, 100-103.
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Duymuş H.G., Çiftçi G.A., Yıldırım Ş.U., Demirci B., Kirimer, N. (2014). The cytotoxic activity of Vitex agnus-castus L. essential oils and their biochemical mechanisms. Ind Crop Prod, 55, 33-42.
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Ntalli, N.G., Ferrari, F., Giannakou, I., Menkissoglu-Spiroudi, U. (2010). Phytochemistry and nematicidal activity of the essential oils from 8 Greek Lamiaceae aromatic plants and 13 terpene components. J. Agric. Food. Chem., 58, 7856-7863.
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Elgengaihi, S.E., Motawe, H.M., Omer, E.A., El-Bazza, Z.E. (1992). Chemical and biological studies on Vitex agnus-castus L. volatile oils. Indian Perfumer, 36, 293-296.
