As more people become aware of the role that medicinal herbs can play in improving health, many want to know about herbs that increase testosterone.
Herbs that Increase Testosterone
There are many herbs that have been used by various cultures throughout history to increase libido and to aid in fertility.
Maca Root
Maca is a root that grows in Peru and is soaring in popularity. While the scientific evidence is still preliminary, it suggests that maca root may help to improve male infertility issues by increasing testosterone, sperm production, and sperm motility. Maca is usually sold in dehydrated powder form and can be easily added to smoothies and milkshakes.
Nettles
Nettles are often suggested by naturopathic physicians to help increase testosterone production in men. Nettles are often sold as an extract and can be found in stores as a tincture or in capsules. Wild nettles can also be juiced, cooked in soups, or steeped into a tea.
Oat Straw
Avena Sativa, also known as oat straw, is believed to increase testosterone production in both men and women. This herb is typically made into an extract and consumed as either a tincture or in capsules. It has long been thought to have aphrodisiac qualities.
Puncture Weed
Tribulus Terrestris, whose common name is puncture weed, has been used in Chinese medicine to treat various ailments for centuries. This herb is believed to increase testosterone by stimulating the production of luteinizing hormone. Luteinizing hormone is responsible for instructing your body to make testosterone. However, the scientific evidence behind the use of puncture weed for testosterone production is still lacking.
Saw Palmetto
Supplementation with saw palmetto is thought to help free up testosterone, which makes it available for the body to use for fertility purposes. According to MedicalNewsToday, the reason for this may be the result of the prevention of conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. Saw palmetto extract is often found as a tincture or in capsule form. Saw Palmetto should be used with care, as there are many possible side effects.
Other Tips to Consider
In addition to taking medicinal herbs to help increase testosterone production, there are other lifestyle changes than can help to improve infertility in men and in women.
Lifestyle Changes
Medications can Interfere with Fertility
Some pharmaceutical medications can affect fertility. If you are currently taking prescription medication, talk to your doctor to see if this may be interfering with testosterone production.
Quit Smoking Cigarettes
Smoking cigarettes can decrease sperm quality. It is a good idea to quit smoking in order to improve infertility issues.
Improve Your Diet
Improving your diet can play an essential role in improving fertility problems. Work towards consuming a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, legumes and beans.
Supplements for Increasing Testosterone
Vitamin C
A vitamin C deficiency may contribute to male fertility issues. Many doctors recommend taking a daily vitamin C supplement in order to improve sperm quality and motility. Taking one gram of vitamin C daily is the typical recommendation for men wishing to improve fertility.
Zinc
A deficiency of zinc can cause a decrease in testosterone levels. Scientific studies suggest that taking a daily zinc supplement of at least 25 mg three times per day may increase testosterone levels.
While there are many medicinal herbs that increase testosterone and improve fertility problems, they can also be quite dangerous if they are not used properly. In addition to this, many herbs can interfere with prescription medications which can result in health problems. Please speak to a licensed naturopathic doctor before taking any herbs. Naturopathic doctors are physicians who are trained in the use of medicinal plants. You can find a naturopathic doctor near you by visiting the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians website.
