All men experience occasional fluctuations in hormone levels, sexual response, muscle growth and mood. Factors like stress and andropause ("male menopause") can often worsen the physical and emotional problems unique to men. Several medicinal herbs can help to prevent or mitigate some of the common health problems seen in men. While most herbs for men's health are generally regarded as safe and associated with few side effects, some could potentially interact with other supplements or prescription medications. Consult a qualified practitioner before taking a medicinal herb if you have a serious medical condition.
Saw Palmetto
According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, saw palmetto is a highly effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement), a common problem in men older than 50. In addition to supporting the health of the prostate, saw palmetto may help to facilitate hormone balance and improve sexual vitality. National Institutes of Health says saw palmetto may be a viable treatment for male pattern hair loss. However, few clinical trials have fully investigated this effect.
Ginseng
Ginseng offers several important benefits to the male body. According to the National Institutes of Health, "good scientific evidence" supports the use of ginseng for heart conditions, immune support and diabetes. Additionally, some studies have suggested that ginseng can improve sexual vitality, fertility, mood and exercise performance. Herbs with similar effects include ashwagandha, rhodiola and eleuthero.
Tongkat Ali
The Malaysian herb tongkat ali has a long-standing traditional use as a male tonic. According to a report published in the medical journal "Phytomedicine", tongkat ali can increase testosterone levels and sexual response in male rats. Because of its reputation as a testosterone booster, tongkat ali is an increasingly popular supplement among body-builders and men coping with the effects of andropause.
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