Vitex seed (Chastebeery Seed)-Unpeeled

Description

Vitex seed is the small, hard, brown-to-gray fruit (technically a berry) of the Vitex agnus-castus plant, a Mediterranean-native shrub often called the chaste tree. While many people are more familiar with vitex extract, the whole seeds themselves have been used for centuries in Western herbal medicine, traditional European healing, and ancient Greek medicine.

The seeds are known for their bitter, peppery flavor (which earned them the nickname “monk’s pepper” because monks historically used them to help maintain chastity). Unlike extracts that concentrate certain compounds, the whole seed offers a broad spectrum of its natural active components.

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Active Constituents (in the Whole Seed):
• Flavonoids (e.g., casticin)
• Iridoid glycosides (agnuside, aucubin)
• Essential oils (limonene, cineole, sabinene)
• Alkaloids
• Diterpenes

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Health Benefits of Vitex Seed (Whole Seeds):

1️⃣ Balances Female Hormones (Most Popular Use)
• Supports the pituitary gland to regulate the menstrual cycle.
• Eases symptoms of PMS, menstrual irregularities, breast tenderness, and mood swings.
• Traditionally used to restore menstruation after discontinuing birth control pills.

2️⃣ Supports Fertility in Women
• Helps regulate progesterone levels and supports ovulation, aiding fertility in women with irregular cycles.

3️⃣ Eases Menopause Symptoms
• Reduces symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.

4️⃣ Supports Male Reproductive Health (Traditional Use)
• Traditionally believed to reduce sexual desire (anaphrodisiac), though modern science does not strongly support this.
• Used in some old remedies for prostate health.

5️⃣ Supports Skin Health (Indirectly via Hormone Balance)
• Can reduce hormonal acne due to its effect on balancing estrogen and progesterone.

6️⃣ Mild Mood-Stabilizing Properties
• By regulating hormones, it helps with mood swings related to PMS and menopause.

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Traditional Uses of the Seeds :
• Chewed whole: Historically, monks chewed the seeds to reduce libido.
• Ground into powder: Used as a spice or in medicinal teas.
• Infused as tea: Steeped as part of hormone-balancing remedies.
• Tinctured: Whole seeds infused in alcohol or glycerin for hormonal support.

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How to Use Vitex Seed (Chasteberry Seed):

1. Tea / Infusion:
• Crush 1-2 teaspoons of seeds.
• Boil gently in water for 10-15 minutes.
• Drink 1 cup daily on an empty stomach, typically in the morning.

2. Powder:
• Grind seeds into a fine powder.
• Take 1-3 grams daily mixed into water, smoothies, or capsules.

3. Tincture (Homemade from Seeds):
• Soak crushed seeds in alcohol (vodka) for 4-6 weeks.
• Take 1-2 ml daily under guidance.

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Precautions / Side Effects:
• Hormone-sensitive conditions: Use with caution if you have PCOS, fibroids.
• Possible mild side effects: nausea, headache, upset stomach, rash, menstrual changes.
• May interfere with birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
• Not recommended during pregnancy unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Packaged in ziplock bags to prevent spillage.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place below 70°F. Shelf life stable for 24 months.

• Natural Product Note: No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Product is a natural botanical ingredient; color may vary depending on harvest lot and year.

• Product Representation: Images and packaging shown are for general representation. Actual product color and packaging may vary.

DISCLAIMER:
This product is a natural food supplement and not evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Consult a healthcare professional before use if you have allergies or medical conditions