When you're trying to have a baby, every month that passes without getting pregnant can be a disappointment. As a natural alternative to conventional infertility treatments, some herbs may help you conceive, but the FDA does not endorse the production and sale of herbal remedies, and there is no guarantee of effectiveness or safety. Use herbal remedies under a doctor's supervision.
Infertility
If you're experiencing infertility, defined by Johns Hopkins Fertility Center as having unprotected sexual intercourse for at least one year without conceiving, you may need medical assistance. See your doctor to rule out an underlying disorder before using herbs.
Causes
Infertility has many causes. Menstrual disorders and hormone imbalances are two causes that may respond positively to some herbal remedies, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Consult your doctor before using herbs to treat infertility.
Menstrual Cycle
If your menstrual cycle is irregular, it can be difficult to estimate ovulation, which is the time when it's the most likely that you will become pregnant. The "Gale Encyclopedia" lists dong quai and pomegranate essence as two herbal remedies you can use at home to encourage regular menstrual cycles, but there is no guarantee that these herbs will be effective for every woman.
Hormone Balance
Hormonal imbalances may hinder your chances of getting pregnant, reports the "Gale Encyclopedia." Herbs that may be beneficial in regulating hormones include licorice root, red clover, chasteberry, ladies mantle, false unicorn and nettle. Use these herbs under the direction of a certified herbalist or a doctor of naturopathy.
Chinese Herbal Remedies
Chinese medicine has a long history in the combination of herbs and other substances to treat many medical conditions, according to Subhuti Dharmananada, director of the Institute for Traditional Medicine in Portland, Oregon. These remedies are available in health food stores or online, and they include such herbs as ginseng, lycium fruit, eclipta, epmedium, cuscuta, astragalus and eucommia. Chinese herbal remedies sell as dietary supplements in the U.S., but clinical studies confirming their effectiveness are lacking.
References
- Johns Hopkins Fertility Center: Infertility Defined
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Institute for Traditional Medicine: Chinese Herbs and Fertility
