As early as in the fourth century B.C., Hippocrates used Vitex as a sitz bath for diseases of the uterus. Vitex is probably one of the most important plants used in Herbal Medicine to treat diseases caused by female hormonal disorders. With proven results in the treatment of diseases such as PMS, menopause symptoms and infertility problems, Vitex is definitely a great women's green ally.

The species name Agnus castus originates from the Greek agnos castus, meaning chaste, as the Greeks thought the plant calmed sexual passion. Its common name of caste berry and monks pepper algo fives some indication of its historial usage.