The hormone testosterone affects several functions within a man's body. Low testosterone levels can lead to muscle weakness, reduced sex drive and infertility. Although no well-designed studies have investigated the use of medicinal herbs to increase testosterone levels, several botanical products may theoretically boost the quantity and effects of testosterone in the male body. Consult your health care provider before using any medicinal herb.
Safed Musli
This natural grain originates in South Asia and has a long-standing history of use as an aphrodisiac. Ayurvedic practitioners have traditionally recommended safed musli as a treatment for poor muscle growth, low sex drive and infertility in men. Safed musli contains a high concentration of natural compounds called saponins, which may act as precursors to the hormone testosterone. However, safed musli's effects on the endocrine system are under-researched and not well understood. Check with your health care provider before using safed musli.
Tribulus
Popular among competitive athletes and body-builders, tribulus is frequently hailed as a legal alternative to anabolic steroid drugs. Herbalists have traditionally attributed the muscle-enhancing effects of tribulus to its saponin content, believing that these compounds could elevate levels of testosterone and similar hormones. However, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology questioned this widely held assumption. The study found that tribulus had no statistically significant effects on testosterone levels in young, healthy men. However, its effect on middle-aged men and people with endocrine disorders is unknown. Check with your health care provider before using tribulus.
Tongkat Ali
Native to the rich rainforests of Malaysia, the medicinal herb tongkat ali may help to boost testosterone levels. Traditionally, tongkat ali has been used as an energy enhancer and aphrodisiac for men. A study published in the medical journal Phytomedicine found that tongkat ali supplements increased sexual behavior in middle-aged male rats, who typically experience lower testosterone levels than younger rats. Supplements containing tongkat ali may help to boost testosterone in humans, but there haven't been enough studies to conclusively prove its efficacy. Check with your health care provider before using tongkat ali.
