Agnus Castus, otherwise known as Monk’s Pepper or Abraham’s Balm, is considered to be a “Chaste tree” (meaning it propagates without any interaction from other plants or animals). This herb is never put into a love potion, as it has been ritualistically used to cool the passions of lust. When a couple has trouble having children, however, the berries of this tree are given in a juice to rejuvenate the reproductive system. (Teas may be used to the same purpose but the juice is more effective). Early Herbologist writings record that this is because true love is more conducive to having children than the abasement of lust.

The herb is used in the several conditions women suffer from. These include: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)/premenstrual tension (PMT), mastalgia, hyperprolactinaemia (outside of pregnancy and child caring), luteal phase defect, uterine fibroids, Polycystic ovarian syndrome, and to ease the transition of menopause. Specifically, Agnus Castus is good for restoring absent menstruation, regulating heavy menstruation, re-balancing hormones causing infertility, and relieving premenstrual tension.

Cautionary warnings: it may cause headaches, cramps, diarrhea, pruritus, and rashes. Menstruation may be heavier after consuming.