What gives meaning to life is the creation of offspring. Sometimes, conceiving may take time. Despite remarkable advances in medicine, it is essential to acknowledge that natural methods also exist and can be beneficial in enhancing fertility.
Are there natural methods to increase fertility?
Throughout history, people have turned to nature to address various medical issues. The use of medicinal herbs is a fundamental aspect of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. The right herbs can have favorable, health-promoting effects on the body, including supplementing the diet with vitamins and nutrients and correcting imbalances. For instance, herbs like vitex and red clover have been proven to promote hormonal balance in women, increasing their chances of successful conception.
Another way to boost fertility is through the intake of vitamins and minerals. Studies indicate that one of the most crucial among them is the additional intake of folic acid, as it can increase the likelihood of successful conception. Biologically active folic acid (folate) is an excellent choice, as two key processes – egg cell formation and folliculogenesis – actively occur before conception, requiring increased vitamin B9 (folate) intake. This necessitates starting the intake at least two months before planned pregnancy. Although B9 can be found in many foods, even with a balanced diet, it cannot guarantee a sufficient daily intake of folic acid. For this reason, experts recommend taking folic acid as a dietary supplement. To maximize your chances, choose high-quality supplements that provide high bioavailability.
Helpers from Herbs to Support Pregnancy
Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
Punica granatum, or pomegranate, can be found in many parts of the world, including Asia, the Middle East, and Mediterranean countries. Pomegranate contains a high percentage of water and is rich in vitamin C and polyphenols such as anthocyanins, punicalagin, ellagic acid, and gallic acid. Its seeds contain phytoestrogens like genistein and daidzein. Pomegranate extract can regulate and reduce symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) due to its phytoestrogens. It also enhances the implantation rate during potential conception through anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Matricaria chamomilla, or chamomile, is a plant from the aster family and contains flavonoid compounds and antioxidants such as gallic acid, camazulene, farnesene, matricin, coumarin derivatives, and more. Chamomile intake can improve estrogen-dependent sexual parameters, including hair growth, temperature changes, and menstrual cycle.
Chaste Tree (Vitex Agnus-castus)
Traditionally used for alleviating menstrual issues, spastic dysmenorrhea, premenstrual symptoms, and insufficient lactation, Vitex agnus-castus from the Verbenaceae family has shown effectiveness in treating gynecological conditions and premenstrual symptoms such as depression, sadness, irritability, irregular menstrual bleeding, hyperprolactinemia, dysmenorrhea, and menopausal issues. The extract from this plant stimulates the regulation of the female cycle.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, belongs to the Solanaceae family and has shown beneficial effects in women facing fertility issues. Ashwagandha helps lower cortisol levels (stress hormone) and alleviate anxiety, essential for improving your chances of conception. A study involving men demonstrated the herb’s usefulness in promoting sperm count, quality, and motility. Ashwagandha may also impact autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and type 1 diabetes. It’s crucial to consult with your doctor before incorporating ashwagandha into your supplements, as it may interact with certain medications.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon extracts and their effective compounds are also used to treat asthma, bronchitis, diarrhea, headaches, inflammation, heart diseases, and PCOS. They are employed to enhance female/male sexual power and female sexual desire. Research indicates that insulin resistance plays a key role in the development of PCOS symptoms. Hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance not only contribute to metabolic problems but also play a significant role in the pathogenesis of fertility problems in women with polycystic ovaries.
Many couples have embraced parenthood by following various approaches and using different methods. Alongside the successes of modern medicine, nature continues to provide an abundance of natural remedies for effectively addressing various health challenges.
[1] Female infertility and herbal medicine: An overview of the new findings – PMC (nih.gov)
[2] https://mysolluna.com/2021/10/08/herbs-to-aid-conception/
