Reproductive

Fertility

Trying to conceive, or concerns about fertility in men or women. Fertility problems have many possible causes and need a medical assessment. Herbs are not a reliable way to prevent pregnancy, and some can harm a pregnancy.

Many herbs affect hormones, and several aren't safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding or with hormone-sensitive cancers. These herbs are listed because of traditional use or research, not because they're proven treatments. Check with your doctor, midwife or pharmacist before using them, especially if you're pregnant, trying to conceive or taking hormonal medicines.

10 herbs

Each note says whether the link comes from traditional use or research, and what the research found.

AshwagandhaWithania somnifera
Limited evidence suggests taking it for 2 to 4 months may improve testosterone levels and sperm quality in men. There isn't enough evidence for female infertility.
CeraseeMomordica charantia
Not a fertility herb. In animal studies, bitter melon leaf juice reduced fertility in female mice.
ChasteberryVitex agnus-castus
There's little evidence that it helps infertility.
CuscutaCuscuta chinensis
Traditionally used for infertility; formulas containing it improved sperm quality in trials of uncertain quality. Not tested on its own.
Devil's HorsewhipAchyranthes aspera
Used for fertility control in Ethiopia. In pregnant rats, high doses harmed developing babies.
Lesser GalangalAlpinia officinarum
In one trial, lesser galangal extract improved sperm count and shape in men with unexplained infertility.
MacaLepidium meyenii
Traditionally used to boost fertility. Studies on sperm quality have mixed results.
MucunaMucuna pruriens
Traditionally used for male infertility. In one study, mucuna seed powder improved sperm count and movement in stressed infertile men; there was no placebo group.
Queen Anne's LaceDaucus carota
Traditionally used to prevent pregnancy. It's not a reliable form of birth control, it hasn't been shown to be safe, and it should be avoided by anyone pregnant or trying to conceive.
Tiger FlowerTigridia pavonia
Traditionally used in Mexico to promote fertility. Not studied in people.