Piping Rock Vitex Chaste Tree

 is a fertility-supporting herb that helps balance hormones and promote normal hormone function in women. Also known as agnus castus, it gives you the holistic support you need to help with periodic discomfort, mild mood changes, cramps and breast tenderness associated with menstrual cycle and menopausal changes.

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is important to a healthy reproductive system and largely responsible for triggering ovulation in the body. Studies on chasteberry show that the herb supports LH production, which in turn boosts and the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This is valuable if it corrects a luteal phase defect, which may contribute to infertility and even miscarriages. It is especially helpful for those with irregular cycles since it helps balance female hormones. This applies also to those coming off hormonal birth control, as it can take years for the cycle to completely regulate on its own.

Chasteberry’s balancing action on hormones makes it useful for some women during menopause. A 2015 study found that giving rats a Vitex extract orally improved memory and learning. The thinking is that Vitex protects against “menopause-related cognitive decline” with fewer side effects than other forms of estrogen replacement.