Watch out for symptoms of overdose or toxicity. Typical symptoms include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or headache an hour or two after taking an herb. If you develop any suspicious symptoms after taking an herb, stop taking it and see if the symptoms disappear. If you have an adverse reaction, report it to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s MedWatch office at (800) 332-1088.
— Q & A —
Which herbs should I take?
All the herbs discussed in this chapter can help to enhance your fertility. However, different herbs address different fertility problems, so be sure to read the description of each herb carefully to see if it will help with your particular problem.
Most of the herbal treatments listed in this book involve single herbs, rather than formulas, or blends of herbs designed to act synergistically to achieve specific results for a specific individual. If you plan to experiment with herbal remedies on your own, try one or two of the herbs suggested in this chapter. If you are interested in a multiherb fertility formula, look in your local health food store, or consult a professional herbalist who can prepare a blend designed to meet your individual needs.
How much should I take?
Most of the remedies discussed in this chapter involve infusions made with loose herbs. The dosage is listed with the information on each herb. Some people prefer to use commercially prepared products. Of course, follow all package directions for dosage information.
Are the herbs listed here safe?
As mentioned earlier, herbs generally have fewer side effects than synthetic drugs, but they can be dangerous if misused. For each herb discussed in this chapter, there is a list of precautions, which describes who should not use a particular herb and what the possible side effects might be. Keep in mind, however, that the side effects tend to appear only at doses in excess of the amounts recommended here.
HERS
Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)
This herb is estrogen-promoting and anti-spasmodic. In fact, one of the nineteenth century’s most popular patent medicines contained black cohosh and was used to treat “female weakness” or menstrual cramps. The herb was used for centuries by the Algonquian Indians in the treatment of gynecological problems.
USAGE: For a decoction, simmer one-half teaspoon of powdered root in one cup of boiling water for thirty minutes. Cool. To improve flavor, add lemon or honey, if necessary. Take two tablespoons every few hours, up to one cup per day. As a tincture, take one teaspoon a day.
PRECAUTIONS: This herb should be avoided during early pregnancy, so do not use it if there is any chance that you are pregnant. Any woman who has been advised by her doctor not to use oral contraceptives should also avoid this herb.
Chaste-tree (Vitex agnus-castus)
This herb is often recommended when a woman’s body fails to produce a sufficient supply of progesterone; it helps to stimulate and normalize hormone levels. (Progesterone imbalances can be diagnosed using a blood test, or it may be indicated by a luteal phase dysfunction in the temperature chart; see pages 17-20 for information on temperature charting.) This herb is also used to prevent miscarriage and during recovery after hysterectomy.
USAGE: Take ten drops of tincture in a cup of water each morning in the second half of the menstrual cycle. Look for a commercial preparation and follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: This herb can cause the sensation of insects crawling on the skin (formication).
Chi Shao Yao (Paeonia lactiflora)
This herb is used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of female reproductive problems, including dysmenorrhea (lack of menstrual periods) caused by low levels of estrogen.
USAGE: Commercially prepared tinctures are available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Estrogen-promoting herbs, such as chi shao yao, should be avoided by women with a personal or family history of breast or reproduction system cancers.
Dong Quai or Dom Kwai (Angelica sinensis or Angelica polymorpha)
This Chinese herb contains plant substances similar to female hormones; it strengthens the female reproductive organs and helps regulate menstrual periods, in addition to boosting fertility. It is the female counterpart to ginseng.
USAGE: For a tea, boil six cups of water and add one medium to large whole root. (For additional flavor, as well as for the overall health-enhancing benefits, you may also want to add one tablespoon of licorice root, one tablespoon of freshly grated ginger root, and a one-half-inch piece of cinnamon stick.) Simmer for twenty minutes. Drink two to three cups per day. Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: It can cause breast tenderness.
Gota Kola (Centella asiatica or Hydrocotyle asiatica)
This herb helps to achieve hormone balance and promote fertility. It also helps relax the nerves, enhance the immune system, speed wound healing, and improve blood circulation to the legs (which helps prevent varicose veins).
USAGE: For an infusion, use one-half teaspoon of herb per cup of boiling water. Simmer for twenty minutes, strain, and drink up to two cups a day. (You may want to add sugar, honey, or lemon to disguise the bitter taste.) Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions. This herb is most effective when taken for four to six weeks, followed by a two-week break.
PRECAUTIONS: High doses can cause headaches, skin rash, or itching.
Nettle or Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Because of its high mineral and chlorophyll content, this herb is considered a powerful tonic for the hormone system. It also increases milk flow in nursing mothers. Native American women believed that drinking nettle tea during pregnancy would strengthen the fetus; they also used it to stop uterine bleeding after childbirth. Nettle is also used to treat hay fever symptoms, high blood pressure, and gout.
USAGE: For an infusion, add one to two teaspoons of dried herb to one cup of boiling water. Steep for fifteen minutes, strain, and drink up to two cups per day. As a tincture, use up to one teaspoon twice a day. Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Nettle can cause stomach upset, burning skin, and suppression of urine. Pregnant women should avoid this herb since it can cause uterine contractions; do not use it if there is any chance that you are pregnant.
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
In the body, red clover mimics the female hormone estrogen. It helps balance hormonal functions, and it is an excellent source of calcium and magnesium, which relax the nervous system and enhance fertility, in addition to offering a rich supply of many trace minerals essential for reproduction. In addition, red clover can help the body maintain a vaginal pH (acid/alkaline level) that favors conception. It is sometimes used to relieve menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings.
USAGE: Fresh red clover flowers can be added to salads, or a tablespoon of dried flowers can be added to rice during cooking. To prepare an infusion, add one to three teaspoons of dried flower to a cup of boiling water. Steep for fifteen minutes, strain, and drink up to three cups a day. (You may want to add one teaspoon of peppermint to improve the flavor.) Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Can cause stomach upset or diarrhea. Women with a history of breast or gynecological cancer should avoid red clover, as well as other herbs containing plant estrogens. Women with a history of heart disease or stroke should avoid this herb because it can increase the risk of developing blood clots.
Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus or Rubus strigosus)
The leaves of this herb are rich in calcium and can relax and strengthen the uterus. Red raspberry is also used to treat diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
USAGE: For an infusion, use one to two teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep fifteen minutes, strain, and drink up to three cups a day. The infusion is especially beneficial when combined with red clover (use one teaspoon of red clover and one teaspoon
of raspberry in two cups of water). Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: This is generally a safe herb. Avoid using it if you are pregnant, since it can stimulate the uterus during early pregnancy.
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
This herb is widely used as a sedative and treatment for insomnia and nervousness, as well as a treatment for infertility. It is high in minerals that support a healthy nervous system. It is sometimes used in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome.
USAGE: For an infusion, use one to two teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep fifteen minutes, strain, and drink up to three cups a day. (You may want to add sugar, honey, or lemon to disguise the bitter flavor.) Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Skullcap can cause confusion, muscle twitching, nausea, or diarrhea.
HIS
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
This East Indian herb is considered a sexual tonic; it is good for promoting fertility and overcoming impotence. It is often referred to as Indian ginseng.
USAGE: Add one teaspoon of root powder to boiled warm milk; take up to two cups a day. Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Ashwagandha is generally regarded as a safe herb.
Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)
This herb is known to promote overall good health, in addition to boosting fertility by strengthening the male reproductive organs.
USAGE: For a decoction, boil one teaspoon of root in three cups of water for thirty minutes. Drink up to three cups a day. In a tincture, take one-half to one teaspoon up to three times a day. Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions. Combination products often include damiana and sarsaparilla (see page 83).
PRECAUTIONS: Burdock root can cause stomach upset.
Damiana (Turnera diffusa aphrodisiaca)
This herb helps stimulate testosterone production, increasing fertility and helping with impotence. Some experts believe that the herb slightly irritates the urethra, making the penis somewhat more sensitive. It is often used in combination with other herbs.
USAGE: For an infusion, use one teaspoon of powdered herb in one cup of water. Steep fifteen minutes; drink up to one cup per day. For a tincture, take up to one-half teaspoon three times a day. Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: This herb should not be used by men with prostate problems, without a doctor’s supervision.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
This herb is recommended for the treatment of impotence; it also helps balance both high and low blood pressure, lower blood cholesterol levels, lower blood sugar levels, and clear respiratory and digestive infections.
USAGE: Use garlic liberally in cooking. For an infusion, chop six cloves of garlic per cup of cool water and steep for six hours. For a tincture, soak one cup of crushed garlic cloves in one quart of brandy; shake daily for two weeks, then take up to three tablespoons a day. Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Garlic has anti-clotting properties; it should be avoided by people with clotting disorders without a doctor’s supervision. It can also cause stomach upset.
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
This herb helps relieve impotence and erectile dysfunction caused by damage to the arteries in the penis because it is a peripheral vasodilator. (It increases blood flow to the penis—as well as other veins—without changing systemic blood pressure.) According to a study published in the Journal of Urology, half of the men taking 60 milligrams of ginkgo daily regained erections within a year.
USAGE: This herb is typically available only in commercial preparations; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Ginkgo can cause irritability and restlessness. Since it can inhibit blood clotting, it should be avoided by people with clotting disorders.
Ginseng (Panax quinquefoliaus/American ginseng; Panax ginseng/Chinese ginseng; Eleutherococcus senticosus/Siberian ginseng)
This herb boosts sperm counts by helping men manage their stress and anxiety; it also helps promote overall health and normalize blood pressure. Ginseng has a long history as a male “tonic,” and American Indians used to mix ginseng into love potions. Animal studies have found that this herb can promote growth of the testes, increase sperm formation, raise testosterone levels, and increase the frequency of sexual activity.
USAGE: To make a decoction, add one-half teaspoon of dried root powder to one cup of boiling water. Simmer ten minutes; drink up to two cups a day. Commercial products are widely available; look for products made of whole, unprocessed roots that are at least six years old (the medicinal properties are found only in mature roots). Follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Ginseng can cause insomnia or breast tenderness. Since it has anti-clotting properties, ginseng should be avoided by people with clotting disorders.
Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha)
This herb helps to strengthen the cardiovascular and circulatory systems, improving blood flow to the penis and throughout the body. The Greeks and Romans associated this herb with marriage and fertility.
USAGE: For an infusion, add two teaspoons of crushed dried leaves to one cup of boiling water. Steep twenty minutes. Strain and drink up to two cups a day. (You may want to add lemon, sugar, or honey to mask the bitter flavor.) Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Can cause low blood pressure and fainting; people with heart problems should consult a physician before using hawthorn.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
This herb boosts sperm counts by helping men manage their stress and anxiety; it also helps promote overall health, normalize blood pressure, and heal ulcers and other gastrointestinal-tract problems.
USAGE: To make a decoction, add one-half teaspoon of powdered herb to one cup of boiling water. Simmer ten minutes; drink up to two cups a day. Licorice—also known as “sweet root”—is fifty times sweeter than sugar, so you shouldn’t need to enhance the flavor. As a tincture, use one-half to one teaspoon up to two times a day. Commercial products are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Licorice can cause stomach upset or diarrhea. It is not recommended for people with high blood pressure.
Pygeum (Pygeum africanum)
This herb may be helpful when diminished prostate secretion plays a role in male-factor infertility. Pygeum has been shown to increase the volume of prostatic secretions and to improve the composition of the seminal fluid.
USAGE: For an infusion, add one teaspoon of herb to one cup of boiling water. Steep for twenty minutes. Strain and drink one cup per day. Commercial products are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Pygeum is generally considered a safe herb.
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
This herb strengthens the male reproductive system and enhances the male sex hormones. It also improves overall health.
USAGE: For an infusion, add one teaspoon of herb to one cup of boiling water. Steep for twenty minutes. Strain and drink one cup per day. Commercial products are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Saw palmetto is generally considered a safe herb.
Yohimbe (Pausinystalia yohimba)
The bark of the evergreen African yohimbe tree has earned a reputation as an herbal aphrodisiac, and it can be very effective in the treatment of impotence and erectile dysfunction. In fact, yohimbe is the source of yohimbine, a prescription drug used to treat impotence. Yohimbe should not be used on a regular and ongoing basis because it can elevate blood pressure; do not use this herb for more than two weeks at a time. This herb has been found to be ineffective when impotence stems from organic nerve trouble.
USAGE: For a decoction, simmer one ounce of bark in two cups of water for five to ten minutes. Strain and dri
nk one to two cups 15 to 30 minutes before making love. (You may want to add 1 gram of vitamin C per cup of decoction to reduce the likelihood of stomach upset.) Commercial preparations are also available; follow package directions.
PRECAUTIONS: Yohimbe can cause dangerous low blood pressure; this herb should not be used by people with hypotension. It can also cause nausea.
COUPLES
False Unicorn Root (Chamaelirium luteum)
This herb has earned a reputation of being very effective in the treatment of infertility by correcting hormone imbalances. It is a uterine stimulant that can be useful in the treatment of irregular periods in women; it is also useful in treating impotence in men. It is believed to have a beneficial effect on the ovaries, kidneys, and bladder, and it is sometimes used to prevent miscarriage. Commercial products often combine false unicorn root with black cohosh (see page 68) and wild yam (see page 84).
USAGE: It is available in commercial combination tinctures and capsules; follow package directions. (Herbalists have been known to warn couples taking this herb for other medical conditions of its potency in promoting fertility.)
PRECAUTIONS: False unicorn root can cause nausea and vomiting.
Sarsaparilla (Smilax officinalis and Smilax febrífuga)
This herb boosts fertility by stimulating the production of progesterone in women and testosterone in men. It also has diuretic properties. Caribbean and North American Indians used the herb to keep people young, vigorous, and potent.
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