Herbal medicines provide fertility support by regulating and promoting the body's natural ovulation and fertility process. Effects are often seen after at least two months of treatment. Most types of infertility conditions, including advanced maternal age, hormone imbalances and male problems, may be treated by herbal medicines. The use of herbs to treat fertility disorders should be discussed with a medical health professional.
Chaste Tree Berry
Chaste tree berry is a well-known herb used in the treatment of infertility. The herb, also known as vitex, improves fertility by regulating the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The herb is primarily useful in cases that involve progesterone deficiency, according to Drugs.com. Women consuming the berries often experience the balancing of imbalanced progesterone and estrogen released from the ovaries and regulated menstrual cycles. A physician's advice should be factored into any decisions made to use herbal medicine.
Asian Ginseng
Twenty-five percent of all men trying to conceive are successful one year after they first begin treatment under a physician's care. Some male fertility treatments include herbs such as Asian ginseng that reportedly increases sperm levels and activity. The herb also may improve libido and decreases erection problems, which improves opportunities for conception.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is an effective herb for improving fertility in women. Dong quai is often referred to as "female ginseng" in reference to its strengthening and adaptogenic effects on the female reproductive system. The herb's use for female health in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years has been successful, according to anecdotal reports.
Maca
Male fertility is enhanced by the use of maca, according to a 2005 review of maca studies by researchers from the FDA. The report found that maca improves male fertility and energy. The herb also confers aphrodisiac benefits in men and women. Discuss maca with a physician before using it.
References
- The Herb Companion: In The News: Vitex for Fertility
- American Pregnancy Assocation: Treating Infertility with Herbal Medications
- Drugs.com: Chaste Tree
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asian Ginseng
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing": Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Toxicological Reviews": Toxicological Aspects of the South American Herbs Cat's Claw and Maca; Valerio LG Jr., et al.; 2005
