Chasteberry

Chasteberry for horses

(Vitex agnus-castus)

Chasteberry is a plant-based feed ingredient used as part of a balanced diet for horses. It is incorporated into a balanced feeding regime particularly on a seasonal basis, when you want to add plant-based variety to the diet in connection with the natural annual cycle and seasonal changes.

Seasons, variations in daylight, and environmental changes can affect an animal's physiology and behaviour. During these periods, many horse owners review the overall diet and the role of plant-based feed ingredients as part of the daily routine. Chasteberry is one of the traditionally used plants in such feeding regimes.

The plant has a long history of use, particularly in Central Europe, and is also known as the chaste tree.

Dietary use

Suitable for use as part of the daily diet or periodically during seasonal transitions as needed. Incorporate as part of a balanced total ration.

Dosage:

Horse (approx. 500 kg):
1–2 tbsp / day for continuous use
For seasonal use 2–3 tbsp / day

Dogs:
⅓ tsp – 1,5 tsp / day
For seasonal use up to 2 tsp / day

1 tbsp ≈ 8 g
1 tsp ≈ 2,7 g

Not for pregnant, breeding, or lactating animals.

Natural composition

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) seeds contain flavonoids, iridoids, and other polyphenolic compounds that are part of the plant's natural chemical profile. In the dried seed, polyphenols are typically present at approximately 0,5–1,5 % of dry matter, depending on variety and processing.

Combinability

Can be used together with devil's claw or combined with chamomile or raspberry leaf.

Further information and references

The references listed below are used as background information for understanding the research history, phytochemical composition, and traditional use of the raw material, not as a basis for any efficacy claims made for the feed.

• McCue, P.M. et al. (2003). Use of the chasteberry preparation Corticosal® for the treatment of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction in horses.
  Journal of Equine Veterinary Science.

• Fitzmann, V., Weiss, R.F., Kuchta, K. (2017). Textbook of Phytotherapy, 13th revised edition.
  Karl F. Haug Verlag, Stuttgart.
  – Chapter: Mönchspfeffer (Vitex agnus-castus).

• Zheng, C.J., Li, H.Q., Ren, S.C. et al. (2015). Phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Vitex species.
  Phytotherapy Research, 29(5): 633–647.
  

* Bioactive plant components refer to compounds naturally found in plants as part of their nutritional composition.