Description

Three-Leaved Chaste Tree (Vitex trifolia) is a large coastal shrub or small tree, less than 5 m in height with the stems covered by soft hairs (tomentose). The leaves are oppositely arranged along the stems and are usually compound, composed of 3 linear leaflets which range between 1 –12 cm in length. The upper surface of the leaves are green and the lower surface grayish green.

Characteristics:

Three-Leaved Chaste Tree is a large coastal shrub or small tree, less that 5 m in height with the stems covered by soft hairs (tomentose). The leaves are oppositely arranged along the stems, simple or trifoliate with 3 linear leaflets which range between 1 -12 cm in length. The upper surface of the leaves are green and the lower surface grayish green. The flowers are born in panicles or clusters up to 18 cm in length. Individual flowers have purple to violet two-lipped corollas that are approximately 5 mm long. The stamen are in two pairs and the ovary is superior, or develops above the corolla. The fleshy fruits are about 6 mm in diameter and contain 4 small black seeds.

Medicinal Uses:

The leaves are used to treat female ailments in the Cook Islands, and used to relieve fever in Samoa. Additionally in Samoa, the dried leaves are burned to deter mosquitos. The roots are diaphoretic and diuretic. A decoction is used in the treatment of fevers and liver diseases. It is also taken after childbirth. The fruit is said to be nervine, cephalic, and emmenagogue. It is prescribed in the form of powder, an electuary, and a decoction. A decoction of the dried fruits is given in the treatment of common cold, headache, watery eyes and mastitis.