Up to 15 percent of couples experience infertility, according to MayoClinic.com, and it can be a highly frustrating experience. Infertility is a complex situation with a myriad of possible underlying causes. Certain herbs may help boost fertility when they are a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that evaluates and addresses the fundamental cause. Before taking herbs to enhance fertility, consult a botanically-trained health care provider for a diagnosis and personalized advice on herbal combinations, forms, dosage and safety.
Balance Hormones
Hormonal imbalance can contribute to infertility. That is why infertility treatments for women often involve hormonal medication. Hormonal imbalances can also play a role in male infertility. Several herbs interact with the body's hormones and may help return the appropriate balance that increases fertility. For instance, chaste tree, dong quai, black cohosh and alfalfa balance female hormones, according to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth." For men, hormonal balancers include panax ginseng, also called Asian ginseng, as well as saw palmetto and sarsaparilla. Of course, the exact hormonal effects of each herb varies, so the most helpful one depends on the individual's hormonal status.
Regulate Menstrual Cycles
Menstrual cycle irregularity is related to hormonal imbalance in women. Normal ovulation is required for pregnancy. Women may have conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome or endometriosis, which alter her periods, rendering them irregular, absent or heavy and painful. Other conditions may also cause absence of periods, irregular periods, abnormal periods or abnormal ovulation. Certain herbs may help normalize the menstrual cycle, thereby promoting ovulation and increasing the chances of pregnancy. Herbs that may be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, according to Dr. Tilgner, include chaste tree, black cohosh, dong quai, fennel, alfalfa, sarsaparilla, wild yam and fenugreek. As with the hormonal regulating herbs above, different herbs are appropriate for different women.
Increase Sperm Count and Quality
A common cause of male infertility is diminished quantity or quality of his sperm. Sperm count may be low, or the sperm themselves may be abnormally shaped or unable to swim correctly. Any of these factors diminish the chance of a sperm fertilizing a female's egg. A common cause of low sperm count is a varicocele -- enlarged veins in the scrotum -- which can be corrected surgically. In the absence of a physical cause, herbal remedies may be helpful for increasing the numbers and quality of sperm. For instance, Dr. Eric Yarnell, a naturopathic physician and author of "Naturopathic Urology and Men's Health," states that panax ginseng helps increase sperm count, and astragaulus, also called huang qi, improves sperm motility.
Enhance Resistance to Stress
Poor stress management can contribute to infertility for both women and men. High levels of stress can reduce sexual functioning and negatively impact overall health. Herbal medicine can help the body and mind adapt to stress, while minimizing cellular damage and optimizing tissue repair. Herbs that may help increase the ability to cope with physical, mental and emotional stress include licorice, ginseng, ashwaganda, rhodiola and holy basil. Note that all herbs can have powerful effects on the body and can interact with prescribed medication, so consult a qualified health care professional for herbal guidance.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Infertility
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Naturopathic Urology and Men's Health"; Eric Yarnell, N.D., R.H.; 2001
