Testosterone plays a vital role in the development of masculine characteristics such as facial hair, a deep voice, sperm production and libido. When your body does not produce enough testosterone, you develop hypogonadism. Hypogonadism can be developed as early as in the womb, puberty and any time throughout adulthood, according to the Mayo Clinic. Hypogonadism can lead to infertility, erectile dysfunction, decreased body hair and diminished muscle mass. There are certain herbs that can raise testosterone levels and are suggested to treat symptoms of hypogonadism. Before beginning any herbal regimen, consult your physician to make sure it's right for you.
Gingko
Gingko, also commonly known as ginkgo biloba, can increase blood circulation to your body’s extremities, according to the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has approved certain herbal supplements containing gingko biloba to improve male sexual function. PubMed.gov states that based on studies that were performed by the Department of Physiology at the National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, gingko raised testosterone levels in male laboratory rats. Gingko decreased the serum prolactin levels in the laboratory rats, while at the same time, gingko increased dopamine levels in the laboratory rats.
Horny Goat Weed
Epimedium frandiflorum is the scientific term for horny goat weed, according to Drugs.com. Horny goat weed is native to Korea, Japan and China and is typically grown on hillsides or in shady areas. According to Drugs.com, the Chinese use horny goat weed medicinally to improve sexual performance by raising testosterone production and boosting sexual energy. The Mayo Clinic states that there is not enough sufficient evidence about horny goat weed in regards to side effects or safety. The Mayo Clinic warns that excessive amounts of horny goat weed may cause difficulty breathing. Drugs.com discourages the use of horny goat weed by those who are pregnant. Drugs.com also states that as of 2010, there were no recommended dosages due to lack of clinical trials.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is another herb used to raise testosterone. According to PubMed.gov, the use of Tribulus terrestris was tested on both laboratory rats and laboratory rabbits to treat erectile dysfunction by the National University of Singapore. During the clinical trials, the National University of Singapore tested levels of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate. At the conclusion of the results, the National University of Singapore found that testosterone increased by 52 percent in both the laboratory rats and laboratory rabbits. Tribulus terrestris was also tested on primates who were castrated. Testosterone levels increased by 51 percent in the animals who were castrated. At the conclusion of the clinical trials, PubMed.gov reports that tribulus terrestris may be useful for patients who suffer from mild to moderate cases of erectile dysfunction due to the increase of testosterone. The FDA has approved the use of tribulus terrestris to increase testosterone levels and help sperm formation.
