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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:
- they are heavily manufactured, and I prefer to avoid this,
and
- 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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