DOSAGE
Raw herb (powdered whole berry): 1-2 grammes (2-4 capsules) daily.
Fluid Extract: 20-40 drops,
Tincture: 60-120 drops (about 1-2 teaspoonsful, or 3-6ml).
Or follow the instructions on any proprietary pack of an Agnus Castus product being used.

A Note On "Standardized Extracts"

Concentrated "standardized extracts" are available; but I don't generally recommend these, because: 

1. they are heavily manufactured, and I prefer to avoid this, and
2. being standardized for one chemical, they could easily leave many other out - and I am sure they do.

No - I prefer the "whole herb" to standardized extract in almost all cases. Either use the whole berries of agnus castus in capsules, or the whole of the berries extracted into either a tincture or (more conveniently) a fluid extract - agnus castus drops.

(Tincture vs. Fluid Extract: The label tells you if it's tincture or fluid extract. Another clue: a fluid extract will always say it's a "1:1" extract ("one to one"), whereas a tincture is weaker - it can be 4:1, 5:1 or sometimes even 10:1. This means 4, 5 or 10 litres of the tincture are made from 1 kilo of herb. This is why you only need a few drops of a fluid extract, as opposed to a teaspoon or more of a tincture.)

When To Take Agnus Castus

Agnus Castus is usually taken as a single dose first thing in the morning. This is the best time to influence the Pituitary gland - which appears to be the main target of the herb.

Results of using Agnus Castus are often seen within a few weeks. However, if you see no change, don't give up until you have taken it through two periods, if taking it for PMT; or for two months otherwise.

If you begin to obtain benefits, continue using Agnus Castus for 4-6 months, then reduce the dose by half for a few weeks. If the improvement is maintained, leave off altogether. If symptoms return, go back to the previous dosage, and continue for a further 2-3 months.

If the symptoms keep returning when you try to wean yourself off the herb, see a qualified practitioner in alternative therapy. The Agnus Castus may be a useful 'crutch' for you - but you probably need professional help in treating a more fundamental imbalance.

(Read on for some useful information about how agnus castus can help when in combination with other herbs...)

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