Guest guest Posted May 13, 2004 Report Share Posted May 13, 2004 In response to several recent postings regarding Vitex agnus castus EO: I am concerned because there seems to be a great deal of interest in vitex EO lately, with little or no mention of its many contraindications and side effects. This is definitely NOT a beginner's essential oil, and should be used only under the direction of an extremely competent aromatherapist or herbalist, if at all. It is my understanding that there are a small number of estrogen-like phytochemicals in the EO, but it is predominantly progesterone-like. Vitex works by stimulating the pituitary/adrenal/ovarian axis (Sorensen, 2000). Analysis has indicated a number of trace phytochemicals that have not been found in any other EO, and we still don't know what these substances do. There appears to be significant difference in the action of vitex berry oil vs. leaf oil, with the former being very aggressive in its action. Known contraindications: pregnancy, birth control pills/patches/implants, HRT pills/patches/gels/implants, antidepressive meds, neuroleptic meds Possible side effects: headaches, nausea, formication, nightmares, increased hot flashes or night sweats, exacerbation of existing depression, breakthrough bleeding, resumption of menstrual cycle in fully menopausal women For some women, vitex may offer relief from perimenopausal symptoms, but users must be aware of potential consequences and take personal responsibility for their decision to use this EO. Katharine Koeppen Aromaceuticals Essential Oils from Artisan Distillers Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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