There are a large variety of herbs used to support the reproductive system of both men and women. Some are general tonics to support and maintain healthy reproductive function, while others heal and treat specific reproductive problems. Most if these herbs are readily available as whole herbs, powders or tinctures. Seek the advice of a professional herbalist for dosage information and consult your physician before taking any herbs.
Herbs for Men
According to "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies," diuretic herbs--such as couchgrass and horsetail---encourage urination, which helps open a blocked prostate. For erectile dysfunction, try damania and saw palmetto. These herbs stimulate and tone the male reproductive system through hormone-like action. Herbs that relax the nervous system-- including ginseng, peppermint and valerian--may help relieve erection or ejaculation problems caused by anxiety.
Menstruation
Many traditional herbs treat problems and abnormalities of menstruation. Emmenagogues---such as pennyroyal, aloe and rosemary---can stimulate a blocked menstrual flow. Herbs that decrease an excessive flow include thyme, lady's mantle, yarrow and raspberry. Crampbark, peppermint, catnip and angelica relieve painful cramps and bloating associated with premenstrual syndrome and menstruation. For regulation of an erratic or irregular menstrual cycle, use celery seeds or strawberry leaves. Talk to your doctor before using any herbs and avoid emmenagogues if you are pregnant.
Herbs for Pregnancy and Childbirth
For women's infertility issues, take false unicorn root to strengthen the ovaries and endometrium. Red raspberry leaf tea tones the uterus in the last trimester of pregnancy. However, it is not recommended while the pregnancy is first establishing itsself, so avoid it during the first trimester. Blue cohosh root, castor oil and cotton bark help stimulate stalled labor. Try catnip and motherwort to relieve afterbirth pains. Comfrey root, slippery elm and aloe vera help heal a torn perinium, says "Wise Woman Herbal for the Chilbearing Year." Consult with a certified practitioner before using any of these herbs and do not use labor stimulants or false unicorn during pregnancy.
Galactoglogues
Galactoglogue herbs stimulate lactation. Most of them also aid digestion and also pass on to the baby in the mother's milk to help treat infants' digestive problems. Traditional galactoglogues include fennel, hops and fenugreek. Take them in an herbal infusion to help your milk flow and relieve tummy troubles for both mother and child. If you are pregnant, use caution with galactoglogues, since many of them also promote menstruation.
Ayurvedic Aphrodisiacs
Ayurvedic aphrodisiacs nourish, strengthen and build the reproductive organs to enhance fertility as well as to regenerate the entire body. According to "The Yoga of Herbs," the creative energy of healthy reproductive tissues can support the regeneration and renewal of the entire mind and body. Ayurvedic aphrodisiacs include angelica, ginseng, licorice, garlic and saffron. Shatavari is the most important herb for the female reproductive system, while ashwaganda is the most important for the male system.
References
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies"; Norman Shealy 1998
- "Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year"; Susun Weed; 1986
- "The Yoga of Herbs"; David Frawley and Vasant Lad; 2001
