<i>Vitex agnus-castus</i> L.: Main Features and Nutraceutical Perspectives

Abstract

Medicinal plants are used worldwide due to their lower risk of side effects and eco-friendly, cost-effective production when compared to chemical drugs, encouraging researchers to further exploit the therapeutic potential of the former. One of the most popular medicinal plants is Vitex agnus-castus L., grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions, to which different health benefits have already been attributed. In this perspective article, the in vitro and in vivo therapeutic properties of V. agnus-castus L. have been analyzed and reviewed with a special focus on its health-promoting effects and potential nutraceutical applications.

Keywords

• chaste tree
• <i>Vitex agnus-castus</i> L.
• bioactive compounds
• in vitro studies
• in vivo studies
• nutraceuticals