How Effective is Ayurveda Treatment for Male Infertility?

 Written by Ben Bunting: BA(Hons), PGCert.

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Nowadays, the number of people affected by the problems of infertility is increasing exponentially.

It is becoming a very common occurrence in the modern-day due to changes in quality of lifestyle and exposure to factors that might lead to infertility in males which affects many couples.

These issues should not be ignored, as they get worse with time. These issues require immediate and timely intervention and treatment.

In this article we shall cover the following topics:

• What's infertility?
• How is male infertility diagnosed?
• The Ayurveda solution
• Tips to optimize fertility
• Conclusion

What is infertility?

Let's first start of with the definition of fertility. For men this means having a fully functioning endocrine system that allows for the production of healthy and abundant sperm, as well as being able to sexually perform. 

Infertility is the inability to conceive after almost a year of unprotected intercourse.

In half of the cases, the male partner is suffering from infertility, hence, no pregnancy occurs.

This might be due to insufficient sperm count, sperm quality, or sperm motility issues. Some major causes of male infertility have been noted as follows:

1. Congenital defects: defects such as undescended testes, or other anatomical abnormalities due to genetics.
2. Autosomal disease: chromosomal diseases like Cartagena syndrome that affect sperm motility and mobility.
3. Defective spermatogenesis: due to any reason or hormonal imbalance, disability of the body to produce sperm.
4. Urinogenital infections: the quality of sperm is affected by any viral or bacterial infection that might target the urinary tract.
5. General health and lifestyle problems: lifestyle problems like poor nutrition, lack of exercise, high sugar intake, smoking, drinking can have very adverse effects on sperm health.

How is infertility in men diagnosed?

Routine tests and investigations like blood and urine examination along with postprandial sugar checkups are done.

The most important test is the semen analysis which provides information about the number and functionality of the sperm and helps to rule out whether the person is fertile or not.

The ayurvedic solution to infertility problems in males

Ayurveda is a holistic approach to the scientific system of medication. [1] It is an alternative medical approach to issues for people who want to adopt natural and organic means to solve their health problems rather than going for western medication.

It is gaining popularity among people as the treatment method is old, tried, and tested with exceptional benefits, and scarce to no adverse effects have been seen. [2]

This treatment modality can be used as an adjunct to your normal medications or on its own with equally beneficial results.

The theory and science of Ayurveda have their roots in ancient Indian culture. This approach has been used for 1000's years successfully to treat a plethora of ailments. Male fertility is one of the many issues that can be managed efficiently through this natural approach.

This branch of Ayurveda that deals with sexual wellbeing is known as vajikarana. These treatments along with lifestyle modification aim to solve reproductive issues by:

• Boosting the production of semen and sperm.
• Optimize sperm health.
• Improving the quality of sperm produced.
• Improving the motility and mobility of sperm which enhances its fertilization capacity.

Ashwagandha

This herb is also known as rejuvenating herb or Rasayana. It has been known for its tremendous role in improving physical as well as mental health.

It has been used for, male infertility issues from the start of time and has proved its metal by exhibiting exceptional results in this regard. [3]

Ashwangandha has properties like immunomodulation, aphrodisiac ability, adaptogenesis, and anti-inflammation that make it ideal to help people suffering from anxiety, exhaustion, insomnia, general debility, fatigue, and weakness. [4]

Hence, improving the quality of life that plays an important role in improving sexual health. It is particularly very beneficial for sperm health issues like oligospermia and erectile dysfunction.

Aswagandha provides relief in case of chronic stress and anxiety which are known to be one of the leading causes of male infertility.

Chronic stress lowers the levels of testosterone which affects the development of sperms. Hence by managing stress it affects fertility issues positively.

Shilajeet

Found in the rocks of the Himalayas, this sticky substance is an excellent rejuvenating and restorative material.

It takes centuries to take form as it is made from decomposing certain plants and herbs. It cleans your body from toxins and gives your body tissues the nourishment they need. 

It's also known to help increase the production of reproductive fluid, boosting the stamina and strength of the person along with it.

Evidence shows that shilajeet not only improves the motility in sperms but also boosts the production of testosterone that plays its part in improving the quality of sperm produced. [5] 

Tongkat Ali

This is a shrub used in Ayurveda for a variety of health issues.

It also improves sperm quality, motility, and sperm count. Hence playing a vital role in solving infertility issues in males. [6]

Safed Musli

Musli or asparagus in form of dried roots has been an integral part of ayurvedic medicine for a long time period.

Due to its, miraculous effects on the general and reproductive health of both,  males and females, it is very popular as a supplement among people who are experiencing issues with their fertility. [7]

It improves the quality and quantity of sperm due to its spermatogenic properties coupled with antioxidant and anti-stress effects.

It also improves the production of testosterone that in return improves the circulation to make genitals making the person more fertile. Safed musli also boosts vitality and vigor while restoring energy levels in males.

Gokshura

Active phytochemicals in this compound make it an excellent aphrodisiac.

It improves the quality of sperm and boosts the level of testosterone in the body. these traits help to counter infertility problems in males. [8]

Kaapikachchhu (Mucuna Pruriens)

This herb is also known as the cowhage plant.

It is a very popular treatment of male infertility with its beneficial effects on stress reduction, sperm quality, and an increase in the amount of semen. [9] It also acts as an aphrodisiac.

➡️READ: Natural treatments for male infertility

Amalaki

This herb mitigates the level of sperm count and motility as well as works on increasing the amount of testosterone production.

It solves a lot of sperm abnormalities and is shown to give good results when used against testicular damage and heavy metal mutagenesis. [10]

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a very powerful medicinal plant with its unmatchable health-promoting qualities and ability to treat ailments from skin issues to digestive problems.

Recently it has been reported to show great results in solving male infertility problems after a number of studies. 

It has a boosting effect on testosterone levels. It contains components like furostanolic saponins that increase testosterone production.

Taking fenugreek has shown an increase in the testosterone level and improvement in related symptoms.

A particularly beneficial compound in fenugreek is known as protodioscin which has shown exceptionally good results in boosting T hormone levels.

Other positive effects like improvement in general mood, libido, and increase in sperm count were also observed. [11]

Ayurvedic medical practice not only suggests treatment of ailments through natural and organic means it also emphasizes the importance of lifestyle change to enjoy the optimum benefits of the treatment being followed.

Tips to optimize fertility

Some of the tips to improve your chances at treating fertility issues are:

Avoid toxins

Men are more exposed to environmental toxins due to their occupation etc. This toxin exposure affects sperm health greatly. It might not be easy but avoid taking in substances known to be harmful to your body and reproductive system.

Get enough sleep: sleep duration and quality affect the quality of sperm and male libido greatly according to a lot of studies. So if you want an improved, healthy libido and good sperm mobility you need to focus on getting enough sleep.

Quit smoking

A multitude of studies have shown the detrimental effects of smoking on the reproductive health of a male. For better sperm health you need to quit smoking as hard as it might sound.

Consume antioxidants

Fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidants are highly advised. So take your antioxidants from natural sources or supplements to improve sperm health.

Avoid sugar

Sugar has a very detrimental effect on sperm. It damages the quality of sperm. Diabetes is one of the causes of infertility in men so the more you avoid sugar intake, the better.

Start exercising

Being physically active is very important for a healthy body and mind. The positive effects of exercise are bound to affect your reproductive health in a positive manner.

Conclusion

If you are looking for natural treatments to improve your reproductive health, be it sperm count, mobility, or quality you need to give ayurvedic medical modality a chance.

A lot of studies have established wonderful results in this regard and support the use of ayurvedic herbs to treat infertility.

The only thing you need to keep in mind is that as with any other natural supplement, consistency is the key.

Nothing can be achieved in a day or two. You have to take these supplements consistently for a long time to finally see the results you desired.

Before taking these supplements it is advised to consult your doctor and understand the effects and results these supplements might have on you.

They are very well tolerated by the human body. Being natural, they are hardly toxic, but if you are already undergoing some treatment it is better to consult your doctor before adding these herbs to your regimen.

 

References:

1. Payyappallimana, U. and Venkatasubramanian, P. (2016). Exploring Ayurvedic Knowledge on Food and Health for Providing Innovative Solutions to Contemporary Healthcare. Frontiers in Public Health, [online] 4. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4815005/ [Accessed 8 May 2019].

2.  Narayana, D.B.A. and Durg, S. (2020). Ayurveda: (W) Here is the evidence. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0975947620300590

3.  Mahdi, A.A., Shukla, K.K., Ahmad, M.K., Rajender, S., Shankhwar, S.N., Singh, V. and Dalela, D. (2011). Withania somniferaImproves Semen Quality in Stress-Related Male Fertility. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, pp.1–9. Available at: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2011/576962/

4.  Sikandan, A., Shinomiya, T. and Nagahara, Y. (2018). Ashwagandha root extract exerts anti‑inflammatory effects in HaCaT cells by inhibiting the MAPK/NF‑κB pathways and by regulating cytokines. International Journal of Molecular Medicine. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29620265/

5.  Biswas, T.K., Pandit, S., Mondal, S., Biswas, S.K., Jana, U., Ghosh, T., Tripathi, P.C., Debnath, P.K., Auddy, R.G. and Auddy, B. (2010). Clinical evaluation of spermatogenic activity of processed Shilajit in oligospermia. Andrologia, [online] 42(1), pp.48–56. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20078516/ [Accessed 21 Feb. 2022].

6.  Bin Mohd Tambi, M.I. and Imran, M.K. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian Journal of Andrology, [online] 12(3), pp.376–380. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3739276/ [Accessed 13 Oct. 2019].

7.  Rath, S. and Panja, A. (2013). Clinical evaluation of root tubers of Shweta Musali (Chlorophytum borivilianum L.) and its effect on semen and testosterone. AYU (An International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda), 34(3), p.273. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3902593/

8. Sellandi, T.M., Thakar, A.B. and Baghel, M.S. (2012). Clinical study of Tribulus terrestris Linn. in Oligozoospermia: A double blind study. Ayu, [online] 33(3), pp.356–364. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23723641/ [Accessed 24 Aug. 2020].

9.  AHMAD, M., MAHDI, A., SHUKLA, K., ISLAM, N., JAISWAR, S. and AHMAD, S. (2008). Effect of Mucuna pruriens on semen profile and biochemical parameters in seminal plasma of infertile men. Fertility and Sterility, 90(3), pp.627–635. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18001713/

10.  Baliga, M.S., Meera, S., Shivashankara, A.R., Palatty, P.L. and Haniadka, R. (2015). Chapter 16 - The Health Benefits of Indian Traditional Ayurvedic Rasayana (Anti-aging) Drugs: A Review**Modified from an earlier publication: The health benefits of the Ayurvedic Antiaging drugs (Rasayanas): an evidence based revisit [In: Watson RR and Preedy VR (eds.) Bioactive Food as Dietary Interventions for the Aging Population, Academic Press. San Diego, USA]. pp. 209–226. [online] ScienceDirect. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780124186804000166 [Accessed 21 Feb. 2022].

11.  Maheshwari, A., Verma, N., Swaroop, A., Bagchi, M., Preuss, H.G., Tiwari, K. and Bagchi, D. (2017). Efficacy of FurosapTM, a novel Trigonella foenum-graecum seed extract, in Enhancing Testosterone Level and Improving Sperm Profile in Male Volunteers. International Journal of Medical Sciences, 14(1), pp.58–66. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5278660/‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌