Becoming Fertile - The Natural Way
Infertility is often a source of stress and confusion for many couples. Doctors can offer fertility treatment options that usually involve hormonal drugs and can be quite expensive. The same effects attributed to synthetic drugs can often be achieved naturally with herbal supplements and proper diet. Such fertility herbs have been used for centuries by a wide range of cultures. When considering herbal remedies it is best to consult a Naturopath or other such expert in herbal remedies. They are natural substances, but should still be regarded as a type of medicine, and should be taken carefully and purposefully. It is possible to abuse herbal supplements and get adverse effects just as it is possible to abuse synthetic drugs.
The most important things to think about when considering an herbal fertility remedy are the vitamins and minerals that support reproductive health and herbs that stimulate and/or balance hormone production. Hormonal imbalances and vitamin/mineral deficiencies create problems for both male and female. Infertility is not necessarily just a woman's health issue!
Vitamin C and other antioxidants are important for sperm production and decreased stress on reproductive organs. A Zinc deficiency can lower testosterone and thus lower sperm production. Calcium and Vitamin D are important for relaxing the nervous system and promoting the health of the reproductive organs. These vitamins and minerals can be taken as supplements and (even better) found in many high quality fruits and vegetables. A few herbs contain a good combination of these nutrients.
Red Clover Blossoms
This flower (which you can often harvest and dry yourself) has a wide range of medicinal uses. It contains high levels of Isoflavones. This chemical acts as a natural estrogen and, as a result, this herb is most often used to combat menopause. In addition, red clover contains high concentrations of just about all the nutrients needed to support reproductive health and promote relaxation. The herb is usually taken as an infusion.
Nettle Leaves
Nettle leaves are readily familiar as a natural anti-inflammatory. It is also high in iron and Vitamin C, which means it is great for the reproductive system. Due to its high Iron content, it is also helpful during menstruation.
Raspberry Leaves
This popular fertility herb has the unique dual function of relaxing and toning (strengthening) the muscles of the pelvis and uterus at the same time. These functions promote conception and ease childbirth.
Using the Herbs
The above three herbs are best used in concert with one another. A simple tonic can be brewed using all three herbs simultaneously. Simply steep 1 oz. of each of the dried herbs in a quart of boiling water overnight, and then strain and drink. One cup a day is usually a sufficient supplement.
While it is difficult to "overdose" on vitamins and minerals, it is possible and especially dangerous, to consume too much Iron and Isoflavones--remember this becomes estrogen. Your body does not need much of either of these substances to stay in balance. This tonic is like your medication, and one or two cups a day is probably all you need unless you have a serious nutrient deficiency.These are not the only fertility herbs available. However, this threesome tonic is simple, effective, and inexpensive.
