Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as monk’s pepper or vitex, is a Mediterranean shrub used since Ancient Greece for women’s wellbeing — Hippocrates was already recommending it more than 2,400 years ago. Its key active compound is agnuside, an iridoid glycoside that is understood to interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, notably influencing dopamine receptor activity in the pituitary gland and, in turn, prolactin secretion. This is the traditional basis for chasteberry’s use in supporting menstrual cycle regularity for women with irregular periods, premenstrual comfort (tension, irritability, bloating before periods), comfort during menstruation, and as traditional support during the early hormonal fluctuations of perimenopause. Chasteberry contains no hormones and is not a phytoestrogen — it is traditionally understood to work indirectly by supporting the body’s own hormonal regulation mechanisms, a gentle approach that appeals to women seeking natural alternatives.

The 0.6% agnuside titration is the standard used in the main clinical studies on chasteberry. Each 250mg capsule contains exactly 1.5mg of agnuside, ensuring consistent strength from capsule to capsule — a meaningful difference from plain plant powder, where agnuside content per capsule is variable (0 to 1mg) and inconsistent between batches, unlike the guaranteed, standardised, study-aligned dosing of a titrated extract.

Dosage: 1 capsule a day, in the morning with a glass of water, at a consistent time. A minimum duration of 3 complete menstrual cycles (around 3 months) is generally suggested for meaningful results — some notice initial effects from the first cycle, but the most marked results tend to appear after 2 to 3 months. A 60-capsule bottle covers a 2-month course.

Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, for teenagers before their cycle has stabilised, or for women on hormonal treatment (hormonal contraception, fertility treatment). Consult a healthcare professional if in doubt, and before combining with hormonal contraception. Food supplement. Not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of children.

How long does it take for chasteberry to show effects?

Initial effects may be noticed from the first menstrual cycle, but the most meaningful results tend to appear after 2 to 3 cycles of regular use. A minimum 3-month course is recommended.

What is the difference between chasteberry and borage oil?

Chasteberry is traditionally understood to act on hormonal regulation via the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Borage oil provides essential fatty acids (GLA) that contribute to prostaglandin balance. The two are complementary and can be combined.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.