Monk's pepper

The Monk’s pepper or Vitex agnus-castus, is native to the Mediterranean region, and is said to be an anaphrodisiac, yet this is unproven so far. The plant contains many essential oils, which can be beneficial for health such as antibacterial properties from the white flowering plants. The leaves, stems, flowers, seeds and fruit are used in decoctions which can affect both male and female hormonal circadian rhythms. Yet should be avoided during pregnancy due to possible complications and unknown effects of the oils on the body and the fetus.