July 2025 Full Moon Highlight

Tonight’s full moon is known as the Blessing Moon, and we’re going to highlight an herb that blesses us immensely in the garden and the Apothecary - Chasteberry Tree.

Chasteberry (Vitex angus-castus) is an absolutely stunning plant that is beloved by pollinators and song birds. The one in my yard (pictured here) hums with activity and seems to have its very own soundtrack of wings, clicks, and song. It is a favorite to include in home-gathered bouquets and puts a smile on my face every time I pass.

I find its common-name origin to be fascinating. Chasteberry was long believed to lower libido and was routinely given to women and girls. There are references to the berries being placed as symbols of faithfulness on the beds of wives of Roman soldiers going off to war. In the Middle Ages the branches were strewn on the ground as women entered convents and a tea of the ground berries was drunk to suppress sexual urges. Interestingly, there is zero science that shows the plant lowers libido. I think this might be yet another case in history of patriarchy fearing sexually empowered women!

What the science does clearly show is Vitex’s benefit for alleviating the symptoms of PMS to include breast tenderness, pelvic discomfort, fatigue, edema, tension, and constipation. It is a wonderful plant ally to reach for to regulate menstruation where there is excessive or heavy bleeding. It is often included in protocols for uterine fibroids. It has a regulating effect on the pituitary gland and is helpful in hormone-related acne. Vitex does come with a few cautions as well. It is not to be used by pregnant or lactating humans, or those with pituitary tumors or breast cancer. Due to its effects on dopamine it is not to be combined with some antipsychotic medicines.

I find it fascinating that magically Chasteberry is used to deepen the connection with the divine feminine and is often included in fertility spell work. My guess is the witches of past kept that little secret to themselves, ha! It makes me giggle to think of all the Middle Ages nuns being made to drink Vitex tea.

I hope that this moon brings many blessing to you and yours! If you see a Chasteberry today please go say hello from me!