More bush than tree, this graceful bush looks a bit like a cross between a buddleia and a hemp plant, with its purple flower cones, and soft, five-fingered leaves. Nomen est Omen, as the saying goes, and this is certainly true of this misconceived member of the Vervain family. Its common names, 'chasteberry', 'monkspepper' and 'chaste lamb tree', all suggest its virtuous nature and possible use to quench the desires of the flesh! Despite this 'chastity' connotation, Agnus Castus always enjoyed the reputation as a well respected woman's herb that was known to regulate the ups and downs of the monthly cycle. It appears that it does so by influencing the pituitary gland, which in turn regulates the reproductive hormones.
Agnus Castus can be used in the celebrations of the female mysteries and to honour the Goddess Demeter and Persephone. It can be used in fertility magic and initiation rituals or to reaffirm one's vows of commitment to the Goddess. It increases psychic receptivity and is supportive magical herb during times of spiritual transformation and renewal, where it will help the practitioner to get in touch with his/her core self.
Use in fertility Magick, whether as tea, incense, spell jar or poppet.
In Short
Planet: Pluto
Element: Water
Gender: Feminine
Powers: Fertility Magick, Goddess Energy, Protection, Sex Magick
Deity: Ceres, Demeter, Persephone
Sabbat: Mabon and Beltane
Folk Names: Monk’s Pepper, Chaste Berry, Mu Jing, Cloister Pepper
Comes in a sealed bag weighing approximately 25g.