The quality and quantity of sperm is affected by several factors, according to the Mayo Clinic. While some causes may be out of your control, certain lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking may prevent sperm count from declining unnecessarily. Some herbs are touted as having the ability to improve sperm production.
Astragalus Extract
Astragalus, or astragalus membranaceus, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, often in combination with other herbs, to strengthen the body against disease, says the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). One teaspoon of astragalus extract three times a day is the dosage suggested by Baby Zone.com to stimulate sperm production.
Maca
Maca is regarded as nutritionally valuable Peruvian plant, according to the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Maca has historically been used to improve fertility and sexual performance in both men and women as well as to ease the symptoms of menopause.
A Peruvian study of nine men ages 24 to 44 who were given maca tablets for a period of four months concluded that the herb improved both sperm production and sperm mobility. The findings of the study were published December 2001 on the website Pubmed.
Saw Palmetto
More than a century ago, men used saw palmetto berries to increase sperm count, improve libido and treat urinary tract conditions, according the UMMC. Baby Zone.com recommends taking up to three saw palmetto tablets per day to boost sperm production.
Panax Gingseng
Panax, or Asian ginseng, is native to Korea and China. This herb has been used medicinally for hundreds years. Panax ginseng is purported to treat erectile dysfunction, improve stamina and enhance physical and mental performance, according to The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine.
Baby Hope.com says panex ginseng is the first herb that may stimulate sperm mobility while increasing sperm count.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is a tall, flowering plant found in shady woods in eastern sections of North America. Black cohosh is perhaps most commonly regarded as an herbal treatment for the hot flashes associated menopause, according to UMMC. It also is suggested as a herbal remedy to boost sperm count by Baby Zone.com. The recommended dosage is a ½ teaspoon of black cohosh extract three times daily.
