Testosterone is a hormone produced in the testes and adrenal glands. It plays an important role in developing male reproductive organs, and in regulating muscle mass, bone density and hair growth. Testosterone deficiency may be associated with infertility, erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis and baldness. Natural herbs may help increase testosterone in men, but consult your physician before starting herbal treatment for testosterone.
Herbal Actions
Hormone balance is important for proper sexual and reproductive functioning. Herbs that increase testosterone are balancing herbs, such as tonics and adaptogens. These herbs work on the endocrine system. If your testosterone level is low, these herbs will increase it while maintaining a balance with other hormones. Check with a knowledgeable practitioner for advice about dosage and preparation of natural herbals that increase testosterone.
Tribulus
Tribulus, or Tribulus terrestris, is a crawling perennial with spiny fruits native to India. Ayurvedic practitioners use the fruits to treat urinary tract problems, and as an aphrodisiac and tonic for the reproductive system. The active ingredients include alkaloids and steroidal saponins. A study published in the January 2008 issue of "Phytomedicine" found that an extract of tribulus significantly increased testosterone in primate test animals and may be helpful in treating mild to moderate cases of erectile dysfunction. Do not use tribulus if you have a hormone-dependent cancer.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry, or Vitex agnus-castus, is a small tree that produces a berry used for centuries to treat gynecological and reproductive disorders. Herbalists use the fruits as aphrodisiacs, and homeopathic practitioners use them to treat impotence. In their 2001 book, "Herbal Remedies," naturopathic doctors Asa Hershoff and Andrea Rotelli state that chasteberry increases testosterone and sperm count, and they recommend it for male infertility and impotence. Chasteberry may cause mild stomach upset. Do not use this herb if you have a hormone-sensitive disorder.
Ginseng
Ginseng, or Panax ginseng, is a small perennial found throughout Asia. Traditional healers use the roots as an adaptogenic tonic. Ginseng is rich in saponins known as ginsenosides, which affect your immune and endocrine systems. Naturopathic doctors Asa Hershoff and Andrea Rotelli explain that ginseng stimulates your adrenal glands, and increases testosterone levels and sperm production. They recommend it for infertility, impotence, and to improve overall physical durability. Do not use ginseng for more than three months without consulting a health-care practitioner.
References
- "Phytomedicine"; The Hormonal Effects of Tribulus terrestris and Its Role in the Management of Male Erectile Dysfunction--An Evaluation Using Primates, Rabbit and Rat; K. Gauthaman and A.P. Ganesan; January 2008
- "Herbal Remedies"; Asa Hershoff, N.D., and Andrea Rotelli, N.D.; 2001
