In Canada, fertility issues have increased from 5.4% in 1984 to 15.7% in 2017. In effect, 1 in 6 couples experience infertility with the prediction that it will become even more common. There are several causes of infertility and can affect both men and women.
In traditional cultures dating back hundreds to thousands of years, specific herbs and nutritional foods were used in fertility ceremonies, in the months leading up to conception, during pregnancy and in the months to years after childbirth. Modern research now shows the supportive actions of these herbs and foods, so we have a better understanding of what we can do to naturally support fertility.
Maca
This root vegetable was traditionally consumed in South America where it grows high in the Andes in harsh climates. The Inca farmers noticed that when their animals were eating Maca root right from the soil, they reproduced well with very healthy offspring. Recently, Maca has been described as nature’s “Viagra” in how it can promote both fertility and virility. Research has shown its effectiveness in balancing hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone in both males and females and as such, can help regulate the menstrual cycle and increase sperm count and motility. This super nourishing food is also well known to support balanced energy levels and mood especially in response to stress.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian Ginseng has evidence in helping balance hormones and increasing sperm count. That said, the true value of Siberian Ginseng in supporting fertility comes around issues of adrenal stress. Stress is a common factor in most of our lives and has a significant influence over fertility, as well as libido. Siberian Ginseng is the perfect adaptogen in supporting the stress response and helping balance hormones influenced by daily stress.
“There are many supportive herbs and foods to consider for fertility, however, it is recommended to use a combination rather than each on their own as they work on different levels and can support each other’s actions.”
Cordyceps
This highly valued medicinal mushroom is well known for its benefits on fertility. Cordyceps has been shown to increase sperm count by over 200 times as well as improving the life span and motility of sperm. Cordyceps can also regulate key hormones such as testosterone levels and acts as a vasodilator for both men and women. It has long been used for libido for both sexes and used in ancient fertility rituals.
Baobab
Baobab is more recognised for its high antioxidant levels, but it is revered in Africa for its fertility giving properties. In folklore, the Baobab tree represents life and fertility and is called “the keeper of the earth.” It was believed that women living closer to the Baobab tree gave birth to a greater number of children. Rich in vitamin C, magnesium, zinc and selenium, baobab certainly provides a great amount of nutrients for a healthy fertile body in both men and women.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a “super herb” supporting a wide range of health conditions. One of the many benefits of turmeric in supporting fertility is its mild phytoestrogen action that can help normalise menstrual cycles and help alleviate PMS symptoms. Turmeric can also help several conditions associated with infertility including endometriosis and fibroids. Since Turmeric is a warming spice that supports circulation, it can help move “stagnant” energy in the female reproductive system as well as promote a healthy inflammation response.
There are many supportive herbs and foods to consider for fertility, however, it is recommended to use a combination rather than each on their own as they work on different levels and can support each other’s actions. Our Warrior formula provides all these herbs and foods together in a long-fermented form that provides activated nutrients within a living food matrix for optimal bio-availability. Warrior can be used by both adult women and men in all phases of life.