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Men's Fertility

Ashwagandha: Ayurvedic Herb Reduces Stress & Immune-Related Infertility

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
September 7, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

The world we live in is fast-paced and demanding, at times requiring more of us than the body can handle. There are different kinds of stressors in life; from poor diet and lifestyle habits, to mental and emotional turmoil. Each of these stressors have the potential to impact the health of your body, inflicting cell damage and disrupting your natural hormonal balance when allowed to get out of hand.

People who live in a constant state of stress may find their body isn’t functioning as it once did. In fact, stress can lead to infertility in some cases. This is where the Ayurvedic herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) shines. It can support the body in recovering from stress by not only improving the body’s stress response, but also by increasing antioxidant levels, boosting the immune system and supporting endocrine system function, for proper hormonal communication.

How Ashwagandha Helps Improve Fertility

The root is the part of the Ashwagandha plant which proves to be most valuable in eliciting these stress relieving properties. Ashwagandha root has an adaptogenic quality. Adaptogens increase resistance to mind-body stress, enhancing overall vitality and health. Plants recognized as adaptogens help to normalize the body’s functions even during diseased states, are non-toxic, nutritive, and have been deemed safe for long term use. So, it covers many key areas that play a role in reproductive health. Most adaptogens are stimulating, but this herb is unique in that it is calming and restorative. This makes it effective for a wide range of stress and immune-related fertility issues.

Improve Your Body’s Response to Stress
It is simply amazing what the root of a plant can do. Ashwagandha has a special ability to have a calming effect on the nervous system. Nervine is the classification for herbs that have this type of action. The nervine action of this plant is helpful for depression, anxiety, fatigue, cloudy thinking, stress-induced insomnia, and nervous exhaustion; all of which are common in those individuals diagnosed with infertility. According to Ayurvedic herbalist K.P. Khalsa, Ashwagandha works better than the medication Valium for treating anxiety.

Increase Antioxidant Levels
This herb has been shown to reduce oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant levels in the body. Antioxidants are a family of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and other nutrients that help to protect the body from the damage caused by free radicals. One study showed that Ashwagandha has the ability to increase levels of lipid peroxide, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E. Each of these antioxidants rely on one another to protect cellular health for life longevity. You can find the results of this study at the end of this article.

Antioxidant levels play a critical role in the health of not only all of the cells that make up the body, but those of sperm and egg health as well. Increasing antioxidant levels has been shown to improve sperm and egg health.

Normalize the Immune System
Ashwagandha helps to normalize immune system responses. It is useful for those with overactive (hyper) and underactive (hypo) immune functioning.

It is often used to help people recover from any debilitating state. From chronic illness to mental and emotional breakdown, it increases strength and stamina over time.

Because it has a normalizing effect on the immune system, it may also be useful for those with autoimmune issues. Autoimmune diseases are a widely undiagnosed cause of infertility.

Endocrine System Support
This herb enhances endocrine function, focusing on re-regulating the thyroid, testes, and adrenal glands.

Ashwagandha has been used extensively for adrenal fatigue and is almost always part of adrenal nutrition and herbal formulas.

Learn more about how adrenal health effects fertility here…

It has been shown to stimulate the thyroid, which may be useful for those with hypothyroidism. Both animal and human studies have found similar promising results in this context. Some doctors will suggest Ashwagandha alongside thyroid medication for hypothyroidism, so check with your doctor if you are interested in this herb as a complementary therapy. Because it is stimulating to the thyroid, those with hyperthyroidism should avoid this herb.

Iron Deficiency
Ashwagandha is rich in the mineral iron. Iron deficient anemia can greatly impact a woman’s ability to conceive or carry to term. Being iron-rich also makes it wonderfully supportive for women with weakness during menstruation due to heavy menstrual bleeding.

Painful Menstruation
This herb is excellent for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) when combined with Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa).

Weak Uterus and Recurrent Miscarriage
Indigenous African peoples use it to tone the uterus for those who have recurrent miscarriages.

Libido
The reports are in; many people find that Ashwagandha makes them feel a little frisky. So if you are experiencing a lack of interest in bed and you have been suffering from the trying to conceive blues, you may want to give this herb a try.

Suggested Daily Use

Plant part used: Dried root
Tincture: 30-40 drops, 3 times a day
Capsules: One 400-500mg capsule, 2 times per day

Ayurvedic Herbalist Perspective on Use
According to herbalist K.P. Khalsa, higher doses produce better results. This is particularly true for Americans, who typically have poor diet and lifestyle habits, along with elevated levels of stress. He suggests starting at 15g per day for the first couple of weeks, and then reducing that to 1-2g per day long-term, noting that use long-term produces the best results. Khalsa finds that Ashwagandha blends very well with Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), for an overall balancing effect on the body. He also feels this herb shouldn’t be taken as a tincture, because its effectiveness as an alcohol extract hasn’t been widely researched as of yet. The powdered dried root has been used for thousands of years successfully through the traditional practice of Ayurvedic medicine.

Caution: Some reports say that excessive use in pregnancy may cause miscarriage. That makes this an herb best used for pregnancy preparation, but one you should consider discontinuing once a pregnancy is achieved. Avoid this plant if you are allergic to plants in the nightshade family or have hyperthyroidism. Ashwagandha has also been shown to increase the effect of barbiturates.

Study: Withania somnifera Shown to Improve Semen Quality in Stress-Related Male Infertility

Both psychological stress and oxidative stress has been shown to increase a man’s risk for infertility. A study of 60 infertile men with normal sperm production was conducted to see if Ashwagandha could indeed be useful in treating stress-related male infertility. The test group was divided into three groups of 20 men each, one group of men that were heavy smokers (smoking is a leading cause of oxidative stress), one that was under psychological stress, and one group that were infertile for unknown reasons. 60 fertile men, with normal sperm production, were also recruited as controls.

They were given 5g of powdered Withania somnifera root per day for 3 months. Various biochemical and stress parameters were tested prior to and after treatment. The results showed a significant decrease in stress, improved levels of antioxidants and overall semen quality. For 14% of the treatment patients, pregnancy was achieved.

One of the most important findings in this study was that the men with psychological stress showed the greatest improvement with treatment of Withania somnifera, exhibiting the best results in terms of hormone levels.

Though scientists aren’t sure the exact mechanism of action of this herb, it was shown that Ashwagandha has the ability to help balance hormone levels and reduce oxidative stress, while also possibly improving the body’s natural detoxification process.

References

  • Winston, David. Maimes, Steven. (2007) Adaptogens Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. Healing Arts Press
  • Beyond Ashwaghanda. (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.internationalintegrative.com/videos/beyond-ashwaghanda-webcast-kp-khalsa
  • Mahdi, A. A., Shukla, K. K., Ahmad, M. K., Rajender, S., Shankhwar, S. N., Singh, V., & Dalela, D. (2011). Withania somnifera Improves Semen Quality in Stress-Related Male Fertility. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, 1-9. doi:10.1093/ecam/nep138 Retrieved from: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2011/576962/
  • Romm, Aviva.(2010) Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health. Churchill Livingstone Press

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About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

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This is my go-to breakfast that I have everyday. Filled with healthy fats, tons of fiber and maybe the tastiest thing you will eat all day. Recipe coming soon!

*I only defrost the fruit because it is frozen. You can use fresh fruit and there is no need to "defrost".

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May 30

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It's better to start today rather than wait until tomorrow...

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The Drop Cycle Methodβ„’ Program includes:

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Womb Care Therapeutic Castor oil kit is a powerful tool that includes a special blend of organic castor oil and organic therapeutic essential oils designed to enhance circulation, promote detoxification and support healing wherever it is applied.

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Here is how to prepare you Womb Care Castor Oil Pack for the first time. 

Womb Care Wraps make regular castor oil packs soooo easy. 

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Designed to help you experience:

Regular cycles and overcome:
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➑️ Short/Long luteal or follicular phase
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Healthy menstrual cycles and overcome:
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Healthy circulation to reproductive organs and:
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For anyone seeking to support general reproductive health as well. πŸŒΏπŸ’•

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Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture. 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body's energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Self-Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle. 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems.

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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By nourishing our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can create a fertile ground for our fertility to thrive, and a life that is rich with meaning, purpose, and joy.

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Like acupressure, reflexology is another method that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. The goal of reflexology is to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body's systems. 

According to reflexology theory, specific points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and systems in the body. By applying pressure to these points, reflexology aims to improve circulation, reduce tension and stress, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

In DCM I teach you how to incorporate both self-acupressure and reflexology into a daily routine to support reproductive health during each of the phases by working on the uterus, fallopian tubes, endocrine, thyroid and liver points. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, palms, or specialized tools, instead of using needles as in acupuncture.Β 

The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, restore balance to the body’s energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Acupressure is something you can do for yourself if you understand how to locate the points on your own body. In DCM I teach you which points to use, how to find them on your own body and stimulate them for each stage of your fertility cycle.Β 

This allows you to have an effective self-care tool that you can apply in the comfort of your own home, at a frequency that allows you to get the most benefit from your efforts.Β 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you’d like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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To best support your fertility, having a clear understanding of the monthly fertility cycles can make a big difference. 

Swipe through to learn about the different cycles and which fertility products and therapies are best to use for each cycle. 

Save or share if you found this guide helpful.

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May 23

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My newest Fertility Therapy for fertility support!

Drop Cycle Method is and all-in-one solution combines the ancient wisdom of self-acupressure with the natural healing properties of essential oils to support each stage of your fertility cycle. 

Experience a natural, holistic approach to enhancing your chances of conception and overall well-being.

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May 23

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Introducing my carefully crafted blends designed to support you throughout your fertility journey. Discover the transformative benefits of each blend and find harmony within your cycle.

1️⃣ Radiant Wombβ„’: Embrace the first two weeks of your cycle with this specially formulated blend. Crafted using 100% organic essential oils, it encourages a calming mood, supports hormone balance, and increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries. Nurture a healthy uterine lining and radiate fertility from within.

2️⃣ Calm Wombβ„’: Step into the luteal phase with tranquility and well-being. This 100% organic comforting blend provides a sense of calm and support during this crucial implantation phase. Embrace the journey with a peaceful heart and invite harmony into your womb.

3️⃣ FertiliClearβ„’: Give your reproductive system the cleanse support and detoxification it deserves. With this 100% organic blend, experience the power of stimulating healthy liver function, promoting detoxification, and reducing inflammation. Create a fertile environment by embracing the body's natural ability to heal and rejuvenate.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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A healthy lifestyle is not just a path to a better body, but a path to a better life, where we can manifest our deepest desires and wildest dreams.

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Here are my favorite 7 essential oils for hormone balance and how to safely use them. 

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

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May 21

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πŸ₯š In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🀯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➑️ Proper circulation
➑️ A healthy fertility cycle
➑️ Balanced hormones
➑️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

πŸ™‚ The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡

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May 20

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Did you know that you can use therapeutic essential oils to help support hormonal health?

Yes you can, but keep a few things in mind...

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Quality of the essential oils
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper use and timing (there are certain essential oils to avoid after ovulation)
πŸ‘‰πŸ½ Proper dilution

πŸ™ŒπŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.

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May 20

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πŸ‘‹πŸ½ Unlocking the Power of Reflexology for the Endocrine System 🌟

Step into the world of healing self-care as we dive deep into reflexology and its incredible impact on the endocrine system! πŸ‘‹πŸ½βœ¨

1️⃣ Balance: Discover the key reflex points on your hands that correspond to the thyroid, pituitary, and liver. By stimulating these points through reflexology, we can support these vital systems for optimal hormonal health.

2️⃣ Thyroid Harmony: By focusing on the thyroid reflexes, we aim to regulate the thyroid gland's function. Balancing thyroid activity can enhance hormone production and improve overall fertility health.

3️⃣ Pituitary Vitality: The pituitary gland, known as the master gland, plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive hormones. Reflexology can help stimulate the pituitary reflexes, promoting hormonal balance and supporting fertility.

4️⃣ Liver Rejuvenation: The liver is responsible for detoxification and hormone metabolism. Through reflexology, we can enhance liver function, aiding in the removal of toxins and promoting hormonal balance for improved fertility.

5️⃣ Holistic Fertility Support: By supporting the thyroid, pituitary, and liver through reflexology, we create an optimal environment for fertility. Balanced hormone levels, improved detoxification, and enhanced hormonal regulation contribute to overall reproductive well-being.

🌟 Embrace the transformative power of reflexology and unlock the secrets to supporting your endocrine health for improved fertility.

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility, type DCM in the comments below, and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video. 🌿πŸŽ₯πŸ’§

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May 19

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There are so many great ways to use essential oils to help support fertility and reproductive health. The main uses I focus on are:

🌼 Hormone health
🌼 Period health
🌼 Regulate a cycle
🌼 Reduce stress
🌼 Detoxification and regular cleansing

πŸ‘‰πŸ½ If you'd like to learn more about using essential oils for fertility type DCM in the comments below and I will send you my Introduction to Drop Cycle Method video.
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