In this modern age, more and more women have slowly been turning to alternative treatments to aid them in their quest for fertility. Chinese herbs for fertility are now popular and is usually one of the first alternative options tried by couples trying to get pregnant. But just how effective is this type of fertility treatment? What type of Chinese herbs are best to use?
The Use Of Chinese Herbs for Fertility
History tells us that in China, the use of herbs in treating infertility dates all the way back to the time of Christ. Unlike western medicine, which tends to focus on men as subjects of medical research, the annals of Chinese medicine tell us that even before that time, treatments for gynaecological diseases have been recorded. The use of Chinese herbs commonly involves non-invasive procedures that deal with improving energy flow and balancing hormones and other elements throughout the body.
Studies show that a woman’s chances of getting pregnant are significantly increased by the use of Chinese medicine. The use of Chinese herbs is directed towards restoring health especially where structural issues are involved. Structural issues can include fibroids in the uterus, blockages in the fallopian tubes, and more.
Some popular Chinese herbs used for fertility include:
Best Chinese Herbs for Fertility
He shou wu (Polygunum multiflorum) – The literal translation of this Chinese herb in English is “black-haired Mr. He”. This herb makes the back stronger and nourishes the nails, teeth, skin and hair. It is also especially effective in cleansing the blood. He shou wu is also known as the “longevity” herb as it has the ability to restore a person’s youthfulness.
Dang shen (Codonopis pilosula) – Dang shen is one of the most widely used Chinese herbs in the market. With no known side effects, it provides support for lung and spleen functions and is said to replenish one’s “energy”. Dang shen also serves as a tonic for blood and the immune system. Similar to ginseng in function, it can be taken daily without worry for side effects.
Jiao gu lan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) – There is no shortage of benefits with this herb: improved digestion and sexual functions, sharper mind, reduced fatigue, improved vigour and it is also used to prevent senility and feebleness. Jiao gu lan is celebrated in Asia as an “all-around” curing herb. It is also used to reduce blood fat and moderate blood sugar levels.
Nu zhen ni (Ligustrum lucidum) – Known as a blood and liver tonic, the Chinese claim that this herb prolongs one’s life span and remarkably enhances the immune system.
Suo yang (Cynomorium) – This herb is used in a number of tonics for both men and women. As with he shou wu, it is also considered a superb longevity herb as well as a sexual stimulant and tonic. Its other benefits include reversal of motor impairment and stronger joints and bones.
Wild lettuce (lactuca spp.) – This Chinese herb is said to have the power to calm down a foetus in the event of a threatened miscarriage. It also provides a soothing effect to the nervous system and is said by the Chinese to be excellent at reducing pain and promoting restful sleep. This herb is extremely useful for both getting pregnant and staying pregnant.
Ling zhi/Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) – Ling zhi has a stellar reputation in the East for being the quintessential herbal supplement. For thousands of years, it has been in demand by Chinese emperors and mountain sages alike. It said to make one’s body “lighter” and younger. Traditionally, ling zhi is known as “the mushroom of immortality”.
Aside from their all-around beneficial effects on the body, these Chinese herbs have seen surging popularity throughout the years among women with fertility problems because of their effectiveness at addressing mechanical issues such as endometriosis and other hormonal and ovulation issues. Older women are particularly aided by Chinese herbs as are they helpful for solving unknown or mysterious causes of infertility.
Advantages of Using Chinese Herbs for Fertility
The use of traditional Chinese herbs in improving fertility offers several advantages:
1. Chinese herbal therapy aims to treat root causes by stimulating the body’s natural healing potential as opposed to just addressing symptoms.
2. When participating in medical fertility programs, Chinese herbs can often be combined with Western treatments to aid in strengthening and balancing the body so that TET, GIFT, AHT or IVF procedures are more effective. The health benefits and system-balancing that results from the use of Chinese herbs often increases the chances of a woman getting pregnant.
3. As opposed to western medicine, Chinese herbs leave you with virtually no side effects. Unlike drug therapy and invasive procedures, there are also no toxicity levels to be worried about.
