vitex tree problems

Can Vitex be harmful?

Vitex agnus-castus, or chasteberry, may boost fertility and reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause. It may also repel certain insects. Most other uses are currently unsupported by science. It may cause stomach discomfort and other mild side effects, but it's considered safe for most people.

Do Vitex trees lose their leaves?

Chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus) is a deciduous (loses its leaves in the fall), multi-trunked shrub or small tree that is native to southern Europe and western Asia. ... The leaves, flowers, and seeds are aromatic with a spice-like scent similar to crushed sage.

How do you take care of a Vitex tree?

Inorganic mulch, such as pebbles or stones, allows the soil to dry between rains. Avoid using organic mulches such as bark, shredded wood or straw. Fertilize the plant every year or two with general-purpose fertilizer. Chaste trees freeze and die back to ground level during severe weather.

How long do Vitex trees live?

Fast growers grow old fast, too: average life span is 15 to 20 years. Being an average, that means yours might live to 40 or beyond if it is in well-drained soil and you are in a less humid part of Zone 7, 8 or 9. Mild winters, hot summers and dry air are the chaste tree trifecta.

Can Vitex cause weight gain?

Uncommon side effects include upset stomach, nausea, itching, rash, headaches, acne, trouble sleeping, and weight gain. Some women notice a change in menstrual flow when they start taking vitex agnus-castus.

Does Vitex make your breasts bigger?

These changes don't enlarge breasts, but they help treat premenstrual syndrome. In fact, chaste tree has become THE herb for PMS. ... Vitex agnus-castus may be helpful for some health conditions, but consult a doctor before starting any supplement program.

Should you prune Vitex?

For Vitex, pruning is generally done to accomplish a few goals – keep the plant healthy and shapely, with a great show of flowers the upcoming year. ... Weak growth will not be able to support a flower or fill out the main framework, so it's best to direct the plants energy into stronger branches.

When should I prune my vitex tree?

Trim Vitex in late winter to early spring. Thin out older canes to encourage new growth from the base. It blooms on new wood so prune before foliage emerges in the spring. Deadhead spent spikes to encourage continuous flowering.

Is Vitex tree messy?

Unfortunately, this tree is fairly messy, shedding all of its leaves in the fall, and dropping old flowers and seeds throughout the year. However, its aromatic green leaves and long, profuse bloom period go a long way toward making up for the litter!

Are Vitex trees fast growing?

As a tree, expect it to be multi-trunked and vase-shaped, similar to crape myrtle. Native to China and India, V. agnus-castus has been planted in the United States for many years, and this fast-growing and deer-resistant plant has even naturalized in the southern United States.

How do you prune a Vitex tree?

Extensive, heavy pruning to reduce the size of a chaste tree should be done in late winter, before new growth has begun to emerge. At this time, you can cut branches to a desired length or to a point where they intersect another branch. If you are just shortening a branch, cut just above a twig or bud.

Are vitex roots invasive?

Vitex agnus-castus is showing invasive tendencies in areas where it has been planted extensively in landscaping, as in Texas. It can now be found in limestone outcrops and dry creek beds throughout Central Texas.

How big do Vitex trees get?

Chaste Tree Plant Profile. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is a deciduous shrub that bears clusters of purple flowers in the summer. Left unpruned, it can become a sprawling, vase-shaped shrub that grows to 20 feet tall with an equally wide spread. It is sometimes trained as a single-trunk small tree.

Do deer eat Vitex trees?

The Texas Department of Transportation recognizes its toughness, and plants Vitex in highway medians. It is a spectacular butterfly-attracting plant and is deer resistant in that deer will not eat it, although they can damage it with their antlers if it is allowed to grow very large.

Is Vitex and butterfly bush the same?

The Vitex is also known as the Chaste Tree, Chasteberry, Sage Tree, or Monk's Pepper and is similar in looks to Butterfly Bush (Buddleia). It is known to be a hardy woody plant which resists cold, drought, and advances from deer. The long, cone-shaped blooms of the Vitex will add color and texture to your garden.

Does Vitex increase estrogen?

Vitex significantly increased the estrogen level in the Vitex + d-galactose group, compared to the d-galactose group (p < 0.05). Vitex also significantly increased the estrogen level in the Vitex + Aging group, compared to the Aging group (p < 0.05; Fig. 1C).

Does Vitex make you ovulate early?

I took Vitex 2x a day before ovulation, and ovulated about 5-6 days sooner the first month taking it. I really recommend this product if you're concerned about ovulating too late in your cycle (for TTC purposes).

How do I get rid of hormonal belly fat?

20 Effective Tips to Lose Belly Fat (Backed by Science)

Eat plenty of soluble fiber. ...
Avoid foods that contain trans fats. ...
Don't drink too much alcohol. ...
Eat a high protein diet. ...
Reduce your stress levels. ...
Don't eat a lot of sugary foods. ...
Do aerobic exercise (cardio) ...
Cut back on carbs — especially refined carbs.

How long does it take for Vitex to regulate hormones?

It may take up to three months of treatment before there is a noticeable improvement. Chasteberry may not be as effective for women who have the type of PMS that has food cravings, dizziness, sweating, and rapid heartbeat as its main symptoms.

Does Vitex regulate your period?

Vitex does not contain hormones. The benefits of vitex stem from its actions upon the pituitary gland—specifically on the production of a hormone called luteinizing hormone (LH). This indirectly increases progesterone production and helps regulate the menstrual cycle. Vitex also keeps prolactin secretion in check.

How can I grow my breasts in 2 days?

Push-Ups: Push-ups are an easy and efficient way to increase breast size. They can also tone your muscles and give your body a good shape. You can also modify these push-ups to achieve quick results. Chest Press: Pressing a chest against dumbbells or exercise balls can increase breast size in 2 days.