by Erin Stokes, ND

Today, in our modern herbal Materia Medica, we are able to draw on the wisdom that has been handed down to us from a rich botanical medicine tradition around the globe.

Chaste Tree, also known by its scientific name, Vitex agnus-castus, is a flowering shrub with a fascinating and long history.  It is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically Greece and Italy.  Chaste Tree Berry has been used as a medicinal plant since the days of Hippocrates.  Early physicians from over 2000 years ago recognized its supportive effect on the female reproductive system.*  The Greeks and Romans thought it was capable of warding off evil and the plant was an important part of festivals.

In modern times, the German Commission E has approved the use of Chaste Tree Berry for irregularities of the menstrual cycle and premenstrual complaints.*   Slender spikes of beautiful lavender blue flowers bloom on this shrub in the summer and early fall.  The berries then appear, and are similar in appearance to black peppercorns.

Chaste Tree Berry is an important component of the MegaFood Women’s Multi-Vitamin line  and MegaFood Skin, Nails and Hair.

By Kristy Erickson

We’ve all been there: 3 o’clock rolls around and you’re sitting at your desk trying to focus. But you yawn, stretch, and daydream about how glorious it would be to close your eyes for just 10 minutes. Fatigue and lack of energy are all too common, and after juggling the day-to-day responsibilities of family, work, chores, and a jam-packed calendar of commitments, it’s no wonder our energy is flagging. Rather than looking to caffeine and sugar for a boost, consider an option that will provide energy that’s longer lasting and comes from within—a daily multivitamin. In addition to supporting overall wellness, a multi contains a variety of key energizers.

B-complex vitamins top the list of energy boosters. B1, B2, and B3 are vital for cellular energy, while B5 is needed to produce adrenal hormones and helps to convert fat, carbohydrates, and proteins into energy. It may also increase stamina.

Vitamin C is famous for its effect on immunity, but it’s also needed to make adrenaline and other neurotransmitters that keep the brain energized. It plays a part in producing energy in the cells and may also benefit physical endurance.

Antioxidant vitamins A and E plus the minerals selenium and zinc protect us from the harmful effects of stress, impurities in our food, and everyday pollutants, which all contribute to fatigue. Selenium is key for healthy thyroid function—and a well-nourished thyroid is essential for maintaining energy.

These are a few standouts, but rest assured that your multi is providing the nourishment you need to support healthy energy levels throughout the day—and before you know it you’ll be powering through that midday slump.

References:

No More Fatigue by Jack Challem (Wiley, 2011)

Prescription for Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC (Avery, 2010)