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Maria Treben's AuthenticTMDescription
Latin (botanical) name: Vitex agnus castus
Common names: Chaste Tree Berry, Chaste Berry
Plant Description: The Chaste Tree, or hemp tree, is actually a shrub and can be found throughout southern Europe and western Asia. The leaflets are in groups of five to seven and are greenish-gray in color on top and grayish on the bottom with fuzzy properties. They bear a remarkable resemblance to the hemp or cannabis plant, which is why it is sometimes referred to as "hemp tree". It grows to a height of 10-20 feet and its clustered bloom is a very attractive purple which emits a very pleasant fragrance.
Use: Make a tea by pouring approximately 2 cups of boiling water over 2 heaped tsp of herb. Let steep for 3-5 minutes. In general, sip a cup before breakfast, and another 2 hours after dinner.
Cautions & Interactions: Though traditionally used to promote lactation during nursing, current studies suggest that there are contraindications during pregnancy and nursing. Keep out of reach of children.