Infertility is a condition of the reproductive system that completely impairs or hinders a person’s ability to conceive a child. Approximately 6.1 million Americans suffer from infertility, with almost 50% being a female fertility problem. The reasons and causes of infertility vary greatly, as do the treatments. Often times women who suffer from infertility will immediately seek medical help for the problem. Solutions such as in vitro fertilization, surgery, artificial insemination, donor eggs, and surrogacy are the most common treatments that women seek. However, there are methods that can be employed that actually increase fertility. Things such as lifestyle changes, diet, exercise, and weight management are all effective ways to naturally increase fertility. Another method that is gaining popularity is naturopathy.
Naturopathy is a form of alternative medicine that is based on the belief that the body has natural healing powers. The single most common form of naturopathy is herbs and herbal remedies. This specialized practice of healing can also be beneficial for increasing both male and female fertility. Below is a list of the top 10 herbs used to increase female fertility:
1. Black Cohosh – Found in the forests of the Eastern United States, this herb can help with many different types of infertility. Women who suffer from irregular menstrual cycles should take this herb because it is a uterine stimulant and will promote menstruation. Furthermore, women who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have issues with hormones and black cohosh has been proven to alleviate these fertility issues as well. Typically this herb is taken as a capsule or as an extract and the dosage varies from person to person depending on a myriad of factors such as age, height, weight, and condition being treated.
2. Evening Primrose Oil – Also known as EPO, this herbal remedy has been very successful in increasing fertility in women. A key factor in conception is the quality of the cervical mucus and EPO will increase the amount of quality cervical mucus thereby making the chances of conceiving better. Typically this should be taken anywhere from the time menstruation starts until ovulation begins but it is important to stop once ovulation has occurred because it can cause uterine contractions. The standard dosage is anywhere from 1500 mg to 3000 mg per day.
3. Vitex or Chaste Berry – This is probably the single most well known herb used for increasing fertility because it is great for treating hormonal imbalances as a result of PMS or irregular menstrual cycles. As with any type of herbal remedy, the dosage will very from person to person but the typical dosage should be 60 drops of the Vitex tincture form or 175 mg of the extract form.
4. False Unicorn Root – This is a rare herb because it is an endangered species but extremely beneficial for fertility. False Unicorn Root helps to regulate the ovaries, strengthen the uterine lining, and reduces uterine pain.
5. Red Clover – This is a plant that has bright pink blossoms but despite it is more than a pretty flower. In addition to its appealing appearance, it has many benefits for women who are trying to conceive. This tiny flower has many nourishing properties such as having an alkalinizing effect on the entire body, making the environment inside the body more sperm friendly. This herb can be taken in many different forms but the most effective form is to drink it as a tea.
6. Dong Quai – This herb has its roots in Chinese medicine and is known for its ability to balance estrogen levels and regulate menstrual cycles. Additionally, it can improve the likelihood of implantation in women.
7. Wild Yam – Known for its ability to increase the production of the hormone progesterone, this herb can increase the length of the luteal phase thereby making conception more likely.
8. Liferoot – Found mostly in Upstate New York, this plant can regulate hormone production, normalize menstruation, relieve the pain and discomfort associated with menstruation, and increase fertility.
9. Lady’s Mantle – Taken as a tincture once a day, this herb can regulate menstruation and build-up the lining of the uterus.
10. Stinging Nettle — This should be consumed as a tea once a day to regulate menstruation, ovulation, and hormones.