As I looked back over the last four years of writing for Natural Hope Herbals*, I realized one topic that has not been covered was men’s reproductive health. I suppose the main reason we haven’t covered it is because it is one of the least discussed health topics in our society as a whole. We have no qualms about discussing the health of our children or seeking out information to help them be as healthy as possible.
And while we may not openly discuss women’s health in mixed company, there are certain channels of discussion and learning among our female friends and family or with trusted healthcare providers such as our midwives. However, reproductive health is not something that men generally discuss among themselves and often their only options for healthcare are allopathic doctors which may not have a natural approach to taking care of the body. This leaves men to either keep quiet about the issues they are facing or try to ways to self-treat as best they can.
It is my hope to share a bit here in Hope for Health that can be of benefit to the men who are struggling with their reproductive health.
The Statistics
As I was doing research for this article, I came across a statistic that was really disheartening to me…40% of men have experienced or do experience some degree of impotency. The first question I asked myself was, “Why?” What is causing such a large portion of the male population to experience disharmony in their reproductive health?
Before I jump into the causes, I want to first take a look at something I found quite interesting. I looked up the word “impotent” in Webster’s 1828 dictionary. What I found was that in the early 1800’s, you were considered impotent if you were weak or feeble, if you lacked restraint, or if you were a male who was unable to propagate. When you look around our world today (the general population), there is a very large percentage (more than the 40% stated above) of men who are weak (physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually), who lack restraint in their lives, and (as the statistic above shows) lack reproductive vigor.
I looked at another study that showed a 15% decrease in serum testosterone levels in 60 year old men tested in 1988 and 60 year old men tested in 2003. Testosterone is utilized in many different functions in the body (both male and female, although males have much more). Male vitality depends upon adequate amounts of testosterone to provide stamina, endurance, and energy. Testosterone is a mood stabilizer and allows men to think and process more rationally. Physically, testosterone increases muscle mass and decreases fat production. Reproductively it is needed to ensure that the male reproductive system is functioning properly in the ways it was designed to.
Causes of Low Testosterone
Several of the causes of low testosterone are the same causes of many of our modern diseases: lack of quality sleep, high levels of ongoing stress, a nutrient-deficient diet, lack of exercise, and obesity. There are some causes that are unique to our times that are a bigger concern.
Prescription and over-the-counter medications – Many over-the-counter and prescription medications have a testosterone lowering effect, especially cholesterol lowering drugs, blood pressure lowering drugs, and antidepressants.
Xenoestrogens – Xenoestrogens are endocrine disruptors that mimic estrogen in the body. They are found largely in molded plastics. Avoiding foods that are packaged, served, or stored in plastics helps reduce xenoestrogen exposure. Other sources include hormone and antibiotic use on animals and commercial pesticide use on crops.
Viewing inappropriate materials – I am purposefully leaving this vague due to the family nature of our magazine, but I am sure most of you realize that this generation is experiencing a crisis when it comes to being exposed to inappropriate materials on the computer and through movies that are being watched. Addictions to viewing these materials produce physical ailments in the body just like other addictions do. In this case, testosterone levels in men are reduced.
Herbs that Promote Vitality, Stability, and Fertility
Milky Oats – Milky oats refers to the milky substance exuded by fresh green oat kernels. Milky oats have a great tonic affinity for the nervous system. If you have ever experienced a soothing oatmeal bath as a child, that is what I imagine milky oats do to our nervous system. They bathe our nerves in comfort and calm, reducing stress levels and allowing us to relax.
American Ginseng – American ginseng was a favorite male reproductive herb of Southern Folk Herbalist Tommie Bass. Ginseng enhances circulation promoting blood flow to the male reproductive organs. The Eclectic herbalists of the late 1800’s and early 1900’s prescribed American Ginseng for deficient insomnia, a condition that develops when a person is too exhausted to sleep.
Rhodiola – Rhodiola is a stimulating adaptogen which supports blood circulation and enhanced energy levels. According to herbalist David Winston, rhodiola was taken by the ancient Vikings “used it to enhance mental and physical endurance.” (Winston, 181)
Ashwagandha – Ashwagandha is one of my favorite herbs for both male and female reproductive support. Many adaptogens are at least slightly stimulating, but ashwagandha is both a calming adaptogen and relaxing nervine. Along with promoting restful sleep, it has a relaxing effect on muscles and relieves minor aches and pains.
Maca – Maca, a little South American cousin of the turnip, is highly nourishing with at least 18 important amino acids (including lysine and L. arginine) and 6 sterols. It has been noted to promote energy, stamina, and endurance. It has adaptogenic qualities that help regulate mood and reduce fatigue. Its super nourishing qualities are desired to improve both male and female fertility.
Epimedium – Epimedium has a long history of use as a kidney tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine and was used to support urinary and male reproductive disharmony.
Damiana – Damiana is a nourishing and relaxing aromatic nervine which helps to calm anxious minds and elevate the mood.
Resources:
Green, James. The Male Herbal: The Definitive Health Care Book for Men and Boys. Crossing Press, 2007.
Winston, David, and Steven Maimes. Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. Healing Arts Press, 2019.
*Originally published in Natural Hope Herbals’ Hope for Health magazine, May 2022.