FERTILITY HERBAL MEDICINE

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the beauty lies in the individualised approach to treating infertility, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. There are many Chinese herbs known for their potential to improve fertility, yet the efficacy of these herbs is enhanced when they are combined into formulas that are tailored to the unique health circumstances of each individual.

A skilled fertility Chinese herbalist will create a personalised herbal formula based on a thorough assessment of the individual’s constitution, the nature of their infertility, and their overall health. Some of the many Chinese herbs known for their fertility-enhancing properties include:

-Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis): Known for its ability to enrich the blood and promote circulation.

-He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum): Valued for its potential to nourish the liver and kidneys.

- Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa): Renowned for its ability to nourish the blood and yin.

-Gou Qi Zi (Goji berries): Believed to nourish the liver and kidneys and enrich yin.

-Tu Si Zi (Cuscuta Seed): Often used to support kidney yang and improve reproductive vitality.

It is important to note that these herbs are rarely used alone; instead, they are combined into formulas that treat each individual’s specific fertility challenges. For instance, a formula might be crafted to improve egg quality, regulate menstrual cycles, enhance sperm quality, or address other specific fertility concerns. The precise combination of herbs and their dosages are meticulously tailored to meet the individual’s needs, making Chinese herbal therapy a highly personalized approach to improving fertility.

Chinese herbs operate on a holistic level, aiming to rebalance the root causes of infertility from a Chinese medicine perspective which looks at the body differently from Western conventional medicine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), infertility is often viewed as an imbalance or obstruction of Qi (energy) and blood, and/or a disharmony of yin and yang. The harmonisation of these elements aims to improve fertility.

Through a personalised combination of herbs, TCM practitioners aim to restore balance to the body's organ systems, especially the liver, kidneys, and spleen, which are considered crucial for reproductive health. By nourishing the body, enhancing blood circulation, and regulating menstrual cycles, Chinese herbs work to create a conducive environment for fertility.

In addition to the traditional understanding, modern research has shown promising results regarding the efficacy of Chinese herbs in treating infertility.

A meta-analysis published in 2015, for instance, found that Chinese Herbal Medicine could significantly enhance pregnancy rates, showing a two-fold increase compared to Western medical fertility drug therapy over a 3-6 month period, raising pregnancy rates from 30% to 60%. This research suggests that Chinese herbs could offer a substantial benefit for individuals facing fertility challenges, providing a complementary or alternative approach to conventional fertility treatments.

References:

Ried, K. (2015). Chinese herbal medicine for female infertility: An updated meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 23(1), 116-128.

Chinese herbal formulas are meticulously crafted by skilled practitioners. Herbs are selected based on the patient's individual needs and within an established diagnostic framework that has been empirically tried and tested over centuries.

Herbs can be prepared in various forms including decoctions, powders, tinctures, or capsules.

The modern way of taking herbs

As a modern practitioner, I usually prescribe what are called ‘concentrated powders,’ which are a form of herbal preparation where raw herbs are decocted, then dried and ground into a fine powder. These concentrated herbal powders retain the potency and therapeutic properties of the original herbs, while offering a more convenient and easy-to-use form for patients.

The powders can be easily measured, mixed with warm water, and consumed, making them a time-saving option for many individuals. Moreover, the process of concentration enhances the effectiveness of the formula, ensuring that patients receive a potent and efficacious dosage of the herbal remedy, thus aligning with the holistic and individualised approach inherent in Chinese medicine to address various health concerns including fertility.

It is vital to use a practitioner to organise good quality powders. As a member of the RCHM I would only use herbs from their recommended and approved suppliers such as Herb prime.

Yes, Chinese herbs and acupuncture work really well together to enhance fertility as they are just different treatment tools from the same holistic health framework – Traditional Chinese medicine.

Both treatments aim to balance the body's energy (Qi) and improve organ function, creating a optimised environment for fertility.

They can be tailored to meet individual needs, addressing specific fertility issues and promoting overall well-being.

You could think about it like this; acupuncture works from the outside inwards to support fertility and health and Chinese herbs provide nourishment and direction to the bodies energies from the inside.

There are many herbal formulas that help support fertility, but the choice depends on the imbalances the practitioner aims to correct. For example, if a practitioner wants to:

Move blood, they might consider formulas such as Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang, which translates to "Drive Out Blood Stasis from the Lower Abdomen Decoction."

Harmonize hormones and alleviate irritability, they might use Xiao Yao San, known as the "Free and Easy Wanderer Decoction."

Nourish yin and blood, they might choose a formula such as Gui Shao Di Huang, or to tonify yang, formulas like You Gui Wan or Yu Lin Zhi might be used.

The wonderful aspect of Chinese herbal medicine is that these formulas can be crafted to support the individual patient's health and fertility needs. However, it is vital to find an experienced practitioner for Chinese herbal medicine, as herbs are potent and should be used correctly.

Numerous studies have been conducted on the efficacy of Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) in enhancing fertility, although many are written in Chinese and hence may not be easily accessible in other countries. Nevertheless, a growing body of evidence translated or conducted outside China has showcased the potential benefits of CHM for fertility.

General Fertility Studies:

A notable meta-analysis discovered that managing female infertility with Chinese herbal medicine could double pregnancy rates within a 3-6 month period compared to Western medical fertility drug therapy (1).

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS):

A study explored the effect of CHM on subfertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, a common reproductive endocrine disorder (2).

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Support:

Research has delved into the potential of CHM as an adjunctive therapy to improve outcomes when undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) (3).

Endometriosis:

Several studies have highlighted the benefits of CHM in treating endometriosis, which could potentially impair fertility (4),(5).

Improving Ovulation:

Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) has been shown to be potentially beneficial in improving ovulation rates, which is a critical aspect of enhancing fertility (1).

Alleviating Symptoms of Adenomyosis:

CHM has also been explored for its efficacy and safety in the treatment of adenomyosis, a condition that could potentially affect fertility (6).

References:

Ried, K., & Stuart, K. (2011). Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine in the management of female infertility: A systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 19(6), 319-331.

Zhang J, Li T, Zhou L, Tang L, Xu L, Wu T, Lim CE. (2010). Chinese herbal medicine for subfertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 10. Art. No.: CD007535.

Li J, Ng EH, Stener-Victorin E, Hu Z, Shao X, Wang H, Li M, Lai M, Wu T. (2013). Polycystic ovary syndrome: Effect and mechanism of acupuncture for ovulation induction. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Volume 2012, Article ID 543924.

Flower A, Liu JP, Lewith G, Little P, Li Q. (2012). Chinese herbal medicine for endometriosis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 5. Art. No.: CD006568.

Zhou J, Qu F. (2009). Treating gynaecological disorders with traditional Chinese medicine: a review. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, 6(4), 494-517.

Li J, Zhang JH, Yi T, Tang W, Wang SW, Dong JC. (2018). Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of adenomyosis: a systematic review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 18(1), 290.

Whilst Chinese herbs are used to complement conventional fertility treatments like IVF in some countries, I do not use them during this time due to lack of understanding of TCM by most IVF clinics. However, they may help improve the uterine environment, enhance blood circulation, and alleviate stress, potentially improving the outcomes of IVF treatments.

The duration to see fertility improvements can vary widely among individuals but it does take time and commitment. In my experience (which is also supported by research studies) improvements can be seen after about a 3-6 month period of consistent treatment with Chinese herbal medicine​.

Chinese herbs work to restore hormonal balance by nourishing the body, balancing specific organs, moving energy (qi) improving blood circulation, and regulating the menstrual cycle. Through these actions, they aim to create a conducive environment for fertility.

While Chinese herbs are generally considered safe when prescribed by qualified practitioners, there can be risks or side effects, especially if taken without proper guidance. Potential side effects might include gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions, or interactions with other medications.

Therefore it is vital to use and experienced practitioner and to tell them all the medication you are on.

Chinese herbal medicine practitioners diagnose fertility issues based on a comprehensive assessment including a thorough history, pulse, and tongue diagnosis. Treatment plans are individualised, often incorporating a combination of Chinese herbs and acupuncture to address underlying imbalances and promote fertility.

In my experience Chinese herbal medicine can be of great help in this instance. So lets have a look in more detail.

How does Traditional Chinese medicine view recurrent miscarriage?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), recurrent miscarriages are often viewed through a lens that assesses the balance and flow of Qi (energy) and blood within the body. Several patterns of imbalance can contribute to recurrent miscarriages.

For instance (remember these are TCM terms), Kidney deficiencies, particularly in Kidney Yang or Kidney Yin, are commonly implicated in reproductive issues. Blood stagnation or phlegm stagnation can obstruct the flow of Qi and blood to the uterus, while blood heat can create a hostile environment for embryo implantation and growth. Additionally, deficiencies in the heart and spleen Qi could also play a role in recurrent miscarriages by affecting the overall blood quality and emotional stability of the individual.

Through a detailed diagnosis, a TCM practitioner seeks to identify and correct these imbalances using Chinese Herbal Medicine, acupuncture, and other holistic approaches.

Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) holds a significant place in managing reproductive health issues including recurrent miscarriages. From a herbalist's perspective, the individualised approach of CHM aims to address the underlying imbalances that contribute to recurrent miscarriages, nurturing a more favourable environment for pregnancy continuity.

What the research says

Supporting this, various systematic reviews and studies have been conducted. A review aimed at evaluating the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicines for recurrent miscarriage found noteworthy insights regarding the potential benefits of CHM in such cases. Another review systematically summarised evidence from randomised trials, showcasing the effectiveness and safety of CHM in the prevention and treatment of recurrent miscarriage when compared with placebo or conventional medicine.

These studies affirm the therapeutic potential of CHM in managing recurrent miscarriages, underlining the importance of an individualized, holistic approach to treatment.

References:

Li L, Dou LX, Leung PC, et al. Chinese herbal medicines for unexplained recurrent miscarriage. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;(1):CD008510.

Liu JP, Yang H, Xia Y, Cardini F. Herbal preparations for uterine fibroids. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(4):CD005292.

Cao H, Han M, Ng EH, et al. Can Chinese herbal medicine improve outcomes of in vitro fertilization? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS One. 2013;8(12):e81650.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the health and vitality of sperm are often linked to the Kidney Jing (essence) and the balanced flow of Qi and blood throughout the body. The Kidney Jing is believed to be the foundation of reproductive health, providing the essential energy and material basis for sperm production and quality. Healthy sperm production and quality are seen as reflections of good Kidney Jing and a balanced internal environment.

Moreover, sperm production and quality can also be influenced by the state of Qi and blood circulation. Stagnation in these areas, whether due to Qi stagnation or blood stagnation, can potentially impair the nourishment and environment of the sperm, leading to issues with sperm count, morphology, and motility.

Chinese herbs can play a vital role in promoting healthy sperm production and quality by addressing these fundamental aspects. By nourishing the Kidney Jing, improving the flow of Qi and blood, and alleviating any stagnation, Chinese herbs aim to create a conducive internal environment for healthy sperm development. Additionally, certain herbs can work to balance hormonal levels which in turn can foster healthy sperm production and quality.

Through a holistic approach, Chinese herbal medicine seeks to address the underlying imbalances and promote overall reproductive health, thus supporting healthy sperm production and quality.

References:

Liang, L., & Chao, Z. (2015). Clinical observation on the treatment of male infertility with Kidney-tonifying and Blood-activating Chinese herbs combined with tadalafil. Zhonghua nan ke xue = National journal of andrology, 21(1), 60–63.

Qian, Y., & Mao, Z. (2019). Clinical study on the treatment of oligoasthenospermia with Kidney-tonifying and Blood-activating Chinese herbs. Zhonghua nan ke xue = National journal of andrology, 25(6), 515–519.

Wang, C., & Zhang, H. (2018). Effect of Chinese herbal medicine on male infertility. International review of neurobiology, 135, 297–311.

When seeking quality Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) products for fertility, it is crucial to consult a qualified practitioner of CHM. A practitioner will have the requisite knowledge and experience to provide personalised advice based on your unique health circumstances. Moreover, they can prescribe herbal formulas that are safe and appropriate for your situation.

Professional bodies such as the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM) ensure that high standards and quality are maintained in the practice of CHM and the products provided by its members. They enforce strict quality control standards and ethical guidelines that practitioners must adhere to, which ensures that you receive a high standard of care and products.

It's highly advisable to avoid purchasing Chinese herbal products off the internet as the quality, authenticity, and safety of such products can be questionable. Without the guidance of a qualified practitioner, you run the risk of choosing products that may not only be ineffective but could potentially harm your health.

In summary, always seek the advice of a qualified CHM practitioner, preferably one who is a member of a recognised professional body like the RCHM, to ensure you receive quality, safe, and effective Chinese herbal products for fertility.

Yes, Chinese herbs can be effective in regulating menstrual cycles and addressing hormonal imbalances, which in turn can enhance fertility. By nourishing the body and improving blood circulation, Chinese herbs aim to restore a natural, regular menstrual cycle conducive for fertility.