Welcome to our Fertility Herbs A-Z quick guide! This list is a sister guide to our main Fertility Herbs Guide. This list is not as extensive as the other guide, but this one makes it quick and easy to find information about herbs that have been found supportive for reproductive health issues. Each herb has a brief description of its actions in relation to reproductive health specifically. All herbs are listed in alphabetical order by their common name.

Herbs are not meant to be a substitute for dietary and lifestyle changes! Herbs are more effective when healthy diet and exercise are in place. Fertility Herbs are a great way to bring about healthy healing and change in the body.

Fertility Herbs

American Ginseng root (Panax quinquefolius): may support healthy sex drive, resolve erectile dysfunction, and enhance sexual performance in men. Strengthens the HPA (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal) axis, aiding hormonal balance, stress management, immune function. Learn more here…

Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera): Supports overall endocrine system function. Supports proper immune response, aids in possible autoimmune fertility issues. Aids in supporting the body with proper stress response.

Bee Pollen: Bee pollen has been reported to have great results in boosting immunity and fertility. Bee propolis has been found to support a healthy immune, and will reduce inflammation and the stress response in the body. Learn more here…

Bee Propolis (contains pine tree sap, similar to Pycnogenol): Bee Propolis is a resinous mixture of tree sap, tree buds, tree leaves, and other botanical sources that the bees make to seal small openings in their hives. A study published in Fertility and Sterility (2003;80:S32) showed that 60% of women with endometriosis-related infertility who took 500mg of bee propolis twice a day for 9 months became pregnant as opposed to 20% in the placebo group. Endometriosis pain, scar tissue, and adhesion formation are thought to be triggered by an inflammatory response. Bee propolis has been shown to be extremely anti-inflammatory which may reduce endometriosis. Bee propolis may also contain immunomodulating properties. This may be beneficial for autoimmune-related fertility issues (mother’s body attacks and rejects the fetus). Other associated autoimmune fertility issues include…Premature Ovarian Failure, antisperm antibody & endometriosis. Learn more here…

Black Cohosh root (Actaea racemosa): Promotes regulation of the entire menstrual cycle. Excellent for relieving ovarian pain. Anti-inflammatory, reducing spasm in the smooth muscles, but also the skeletal muscles associated with pain that radiates to the lower back and down the thighs. Learn more here…

Black haw root bark (Viburnum prunifolium): Extremely effective at reducing uterine contractions and uterine muscle spasm. If there is uterine cramping without cervical dilation, cramp bark has been traditionally used to help stop uterine spasm and contractions. Cramp bark and Black haw have been shown to have a specific action on the uterus; the relaxing action increases circulation to the uterus, allowing for toxin removal, which may aid the uterus in healing and overall improvement in uterine health. It is interchangeable with Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) and has the same actions as Cramp bark. Learn more here…

Blue Cohosh rhizome and root (Caulophyllum thalictroides): Both an ovarian and uterine tonic. Aids in regulation of the entire menstrual cycle. Wonderful for uterine weakness, where the uterus has lost strength and tone.

Blue Vervain aerial parts (Verbena hastata): Antispasmodic, supports proper function of the uterus.

Borage seed oil (Borago officinalis): High in omega-6 essential fatty acids. It works to increase cervical mucus and balance hormones. Mildly stimulating to the uterine muscles through its high omega 6 essential fatty acid content. Shown to contract and relax smooth muscle tissue of the uterus.

Burdock root (Arctium lappa): Nourishing and cleansing for the liver, aiding in hormonal balance. Supports overall liver function for improved hormonal balance. Cleansing for the entire body, especially where congested tissues and organs are present. Helps to remove excess estrogen from the liver for proper estrogen balance in the body.

Castor Oil, oil pressed from beans (Ricinus communis): When Castor Oil is applied as a pack to the abdomen, it can be used to enhance detoxification, improve circulation, and promote healing of the tissues and organs underneath the skin. Castor oil works to dissolve foreign tissue growth, including endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, scar tissue damage from reproductive organ trauma. Learn more here…

Chamomile flowers (Matricaria recutita): Anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. It is also helpful for women with digestive constipation contributing to pain. Because this herb is also a nervine and mild sedative, it may help to reduce stress, relax the nervous system, and induce a restful state in the body. This can be very useful when experiencing menstrual cramping accompanied by anxiety and irritability or for stress management.

Cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum spp.): Reduces heavy menstrual bleeding. Improves circulation to reproductive system for improved healing of congested tissues. Preliminary studies shown cinnamon had greatly reduced insulin resistant women. May help to lower heavy bleeding time associated with hormonal imbalances due to PCOS. Supports healthy circulation to reproductive organs. Learn more here…

Cordyceps mushroom (Cordyceps sinensis): Found in human trials to help restore normal macrophage and natural killer cell activity. Normalizing for immune function. Learn more here…

Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus): Extremely effective at reducing uterine contractions, and uterine muscle spasm. If there is uterine cramping without cervical dilation, cramp bark has been traditionally used to help stop uterine spasm and contractions. It has been used for hundreds of years as miscarriage prevention. Learn more here…

Cranesbill, dried root (Geranium maculatum): Traditionally used to stop heavy menstrual bleeding or uterine hemorrhage, very astringent.

Damiana dried leaves and stems (Turnera diffusa): A female aphrodisiac, damiana has been used for centuries to help increase circulation to the reproductive system as well as increase sexual pleasure. Learn more here…

Dandelion leaf and root (Taraxacum officinale): The leaf is very nourishing and is high in vitamins and minerals. The root aids in liver health, stimulating digestion for improved hormonal balance.

Dong Quai root (Angelica sinensis): Dong Quai increases circulation, which helps to bring in fresh healthy blood to remove excess tissue growth, heal tissue damage, and limit scar tissue and adhesion formation. This increase in healthy circulation aids in regulation of the menstrual cycle. Proper circulation is required to remove toxins, dead tissue, diseased tissue, and metabolic waste from our bodies. This is very important for women with endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and irregular or absent menstruation. Dong Quai stimulates healthy immune response, reduces depression, and fatigue and psycho-emotional symptoms associated with endometriosis. Learn more here…

Echinacea flower, root, seed (Echinacea purpurea, E.angustifolia): One of the most important plants for stimulating the immune system. Best used for acute situations where immune function support is needed immediately. Autoimmune fertility issues may be supported with this herb during acute flareups for supporting proper immune function, or poor health due to stress.

Eleuthero root and stem bark (Eleutherococcus senticosus): Adaptogen herb that supports overall endocrine function which supports hormonal balance. Strengthens the immune system. Great for people under severe stress. This herb helps people to feel better, perform better and recover from immune suppression more quickly.

Epimedium also known as Horny goat weed or Yin Yang Huo (Epimedium grandiflorum): Aphrodisiac, increases sexual desire and performance. The active ingredient Icariin has been shown to increase nitric oxide, increasing circulation to the extremities. Has been shown useful in aiding sustained erection.

Evening Primrose Oil, cold pressed from the seed (Oenothera biennis): Supports overall hormonal balance through its high content of the omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs), Linoleic Acid (LA) and Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA). LA is needed for prostaglandin E and GLA is needed for the synthesis of prostaglandin E. One of the many functions of Prostaglandins is to help control regulation of hormones. High levels of LA and GLAs in Evening Primrose Oil have a direct effect on uterine cells. These contract and relax smooth muscle tissue. This action on the uterus is toning for the uterine muscles in preparation for pregnancy. Learn more here…

False Unicorn root (Chamaelirium luteum): Recurrent miscarriages related to uterine and cervical weakness. This plant is endangered! Learn more here…

Feverfew aerial parts (Tanacetum parthenium): Has been used for hundreds of years for painful menstruation, and migraine headaches associated with the menstrual cycle.

Flax seed (Linum usitatissimum): Flax seeds contain lignans, which are the second strongest group of phytoestrogens. Flax is also high in fiber. Studies have shown that the combinations of lignans and fiber in flax help to remove excess estrogen from the body, while also protecting it from xenoestrogens.

Fo-ti, also known as Ho Shou Wu or He Shou Wu, root (Polygonum multiflorum): According to TCM helps to restore jing (life essence). Traditionally used for men who have low libido, low sperm count, erectile dysfunction and poor sperm motility. Supports fertility longevity. Supports both thyroid and adrenal function, both are extremely important and sensitive to stress. The vine and leaf are sometimes used to aid stress, nervous tension and insomnia. Learn more here…

Ginger root (Zingiber officinale): Anti-inflammatory. Increases circulation, which also helps to reduce inflammation. Supports proper digestion, very important for inflammatory conditions. Reduction in inflammation reduces pain.

Ginkgo leaves (Ginkgo biloba): #1 remedy for erectile dysfunction, increases circulation and is high in antioxidants.

Goji berry, dried fruit (Lycium barbarum,L.chinense): protects sperm from hyperthermia (overheating), increasing hormone levels, sperm quantity and quality through its high antioxidant content. Supports hormonal balance through improved liver function support. Extremely nutritious as well. Learn more here…

Goldenseal root (Hydrastis canadensis): Anti-inflammatory. Reduction in inflammation may help to prevent scar tissue and adhesion formation. Reduction in inflammation reduces pain.

Gymnema leaf (Gymnema sylvestris): This herb is known as the destroyer of sugar. Supports healthy blood sugar levels, controlling insulin. Helps curb sugar cravings. Learn more here…

Hibiscus dried flower petals (Hibiscus sabdariffa): High in vitamin C, which aids iron absorption; best combined with herbs high in iron, like Nettles. Normalizing for blood pressure and proper blood formation. This is essential for a nourishing uterine lining.

Horsetail aerial parts (Equisetum arvense): Excellent astringent action for toning, healing of excess foreign tissue growth, and bleeding. Promotes proper tissue growth, and function.

Jamaican Dogwood bark (Piscidia erythrina): Extremely antispasmodic and analgesic. It is traditionally used for all neuralgic and muscular cramps and spasm. This is an herb that is often relied on by herbalists for women who have unrelenting pain disturbing daily life activities and debilitating pain. Jamaican Dogwood may be a good option for women who have lost all hope, or where other remedies have failed.

Lemon Balm leaf (Melissa officinalis): Excellent nervous system support. Supports healthy stress response, and lessens depression and anxiety. Good emotional health and a healthy stress response are important prior to conception. Not for use for people with hypothyroidism.

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Has the propensity to mimic estrogen (phytoestrogen). Licorice is an adaptogen herb, supporting the endocrine system for overall hormonal support. This plant is also an immunomodulator, stimulating immune system function in people with autoimmune disease. Learn more here…

Liferoot, dried aerial parts (Senecio aureus): Normalizing for the menstrual cycle, astringent.

Linden flower and bract (Tilia platyphyllos, T.cordata): Mildly lowers blood pressure, reduction in depression, supports nervous system function. Great for anxiety, depression, and insomnia; it is very gentle and safe.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii): Helps to balance the hormones, but does not contain any hormones itself. It is able to do this by nourishing and balancing the endocrine system. Maca is a nourishing food for the endocrine system, aiding both the pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid glands (all involved in hormonal balance). Works to protect the body from stress damage. Shown to support and increase egg health. Shown to increase libido in both men and women. Learn more here…

Milk Thistle seed (Silybum marianum): Supports hormonal balance. It is one of the best plants for liver health. Liver health is vital for hormonal balance. The liver helps to filter toxins from the body, including excess hormones. Learn more here…

Motherwort aerial parts (Leonurus cardiaca): A powerful herb that brings quick relief to women who have painful periods. This herb is very effective at reducing uterine muscle spasm, cramping and improving uterine tone. Motherwort has been found to mildly stimulate the uterus, while also aiding the uterus to work efficiently. Famous herbalist Nicholas Culpepper 1616-1654 said, “There is no better herb to drive away melancholy vapours from the heart, to strengthen it and make the mind cheerful.” Supports heart health, reduces anxiety. Learn more here…

Nettles aerial parts (Urtica dioica): Supports healthy iron levels, which is important for conditions where internal and/or excessive menstrual bleeding is taking place. Both astringent and high in iron and vit. C for proper tissue and blood formation. Supports proper liver function as well hormonal balance. Very nutritious as well, promoting overall health.

Oat straw (stems), Milky Oats (tops) exert a stronger effect than oatstraw,(Avena sativa): Nourishing, aids in stress reduction by supporting nervous system. Great support for stress related fertility issues.

Parsley tap root, leaves, seeds (Petroselinum crispum): Has been used as an emmenagogue to bring on menstruation. Rich source of vitamin C.

Partridge Berry leaves & stems (Mitchella repens): Is a uterine tonic traditionally used to help strengthen a weak uterus. Helpful when the woman is experiencing painful cramping, uterine spasm, bleeding, and/or passing of blood clots in the first trimester of pregnancy. Learn more here…

Periwinkle aerial parts (Vinca major): Used traditionally to treat menorrhagia, but also to curb mid-cycle spotting/bleeding known as menorrhagia.

Red Clover aerial parts, blossom (Trifolium pratense): Red Clover is a nourishing food herb. It is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals. It is one of the best blood-purifying herbs, aiding in detoxification of environmental pollutants prior to conception. Rich in phytoestrogens, may help protect the body from xenohormones. High in both calcium and magnesium, essential for proper smooth muscle function, reducing and aiding in prevention of uterine cramping. Supports proper uterine tissue formation. Learn more here…

Red Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus): Raspberry leaf works to tone the uterine muscles and normalize blood flow during menses. This is one of the best normalizing herbs for the female reproductive organs. Raspberry leaf is astringent, contracting and shrinking internal and external body tissues. May help prevent hemorrhage or excessive bleeding. Helps to reduce bleeding of endometrial tissues. One of the best herbs for uterine health. Learn more here…

Rehmannia root, Di Huang (Rehmannia glutinosa): Effective at reducing inflammation and uterine spasm. It works to curb mid-cycle bleeding, as well as excessive bleeding, two common issues endometriosis patients often deal with. Learn more here…

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Strengthens the immune system. Down-regulates excessive immune response (common in autoimmune disease), but enhances monocyte, macrophage, and T lymphocyte activity. Anti-inflammatory and stress support as well. Learn more here…

Rhodiola root (Rhodiola rosea): is an adaptogen, aiding the body in times of stress and change. Rhodiola is a potent antioxidant, working to protect the body from environmental toxins that may contribute to hormonal imbalance. Works to help prevent depression during hormonal changes. Its balancing effect on the endocrine system support overall hormonal balance, stress and immune support. Helps to balance blood sugar levels. Supports both the male and female reproductive system.

Saw Palmetto berry (Serenoa repens): Saw Palmetto has been found to inhibit DHT production by reducing 5 alpha-reductase production, which may help prevent Hirsutism (excessive body hair growth, thinning hair on head) in women with PCOS. May help to reduce endometrial hyperplasia and hormonal acne symptoms. Traditionally used for improving prostate health, impotence, testicular atrophy and improved sex drive in men. Learn more here…

Schisandra fruit and seed (Schisandra chinensis): Supportive and protective of liver health. Shown to support immunity, endocrine, and nervous system function. Studies have shown that it may increase the sperm count. Aids stress-related infertility.

Seaweed, leafy parts, variety of species: High in fiber for improved hormonal balance. High in a variety of vitamins and minerals, including iron, which may help prevent anemia in women with heavy monthly blood loss. Dulse, Kombu and Wakame are highest in iron. Dulse contains 4 times more iron than spinach! Learn more here…

Sesame seed (Sesamum indicum): Has the highest oil content of any seed, providing a rich source of omega 3 and 6 EFAs (see the benefits for hormonal balance above, under Evening Primrose Oil). Contains lignans which help promote healthy estrogen balance and overall hormonal balance.

Shatavari root (Asparagus racemosus): Shatavari’s main constituents are steroidal-saponins, suggesting its use as an estrogen regulator, the estrogen modulating in turn may contribute to menstrual cycle regulation. Not only does this herb support healthy fertility, it is an immune system and nutritive tonic. Supports overall immune system function. Learn more here…

Shepherd’s purse, aerial parts (Capsella bursa-pastoris): Astringent used to reduce acute heavy menstrual bleeding and postpartum hemorrhage.

Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes): Stimulates and supports the immune system. Learn more here…

Tribulus, aerial parts and fruit (Tribulus terrestris): Has been shown to increase the serum estradiol level in women. May normalize ovulation in infertile women when used prior to ovulation. One study performed on 36 women who were not ovulating, showed that that 67% realized normal ovulation after only 2-3 months of consistent use. Tribulus has also been found to be a nourishing tonic for the female reproductive system as a whole, especially concerning the ovaries. Shown to decrease the effects of antisperm antibodies. A study in 1998 performed in Bulgaria using Tribulus on couples with antisperm antibodies found a 61% increase in conception. Learn more here…

Vitex, Chaste tree berry, (Vitex agnus-castus): Known as an all-around female reproductive enhancer, Vitex can be used to treat many female issues, including a lethargic libido. Able to increase circulation to the genitals, Vitex will also increase vaginal mucus to enhance sexual sensation and improve a woman’s energy levels. Has been traditionally used by midwives and herbalist to prevent miscarriage associated with low progesterone. Learn more here…

White Peony (Paeonia officinalis): Peony has been found to aid in increasing progesterone levels, lower testosterone and balance estrogen. Overall, this herb has excellent hormone-balancing support. It also aids in pain reduction and relaxation. Moves the blood in the pelvic area, good for uterine stagnation, including conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, & PCOS, where menorrhagia may be present. Learn more here…

Wild Yam root (Dioscorea villosa): Wild Yam has a wonderful action on smooth muscle tissue, reducing muscle spasm of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries, aiding in painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea) and chronic pelvic pain. Traditionally used to treat irritable uterus and threatened miscarriage with uterine contractions present. Often combined with Cramp bark or Black Haw. Also used for hyperemesis gravidarum (extreme nausea and vomiting in pregnancy). Learn more here…

Yarrow aerial parts (Achillea millefolium): Drying and moistening; promotes sweating and detoxification, but strengthens and tightens tissues. Stimulates uterus to bring on menstruation, yet curbs heavy menstrual flow, effectively aiding in regulation of menstrual flow. Relieves pelvic congestion. Works well for a boggy, weak uterus. Learn more here…

Yellow Dock root (Rumex crispus): Stimulates bile production for healthy removal of toxins, supportive of liver health and is high in iron, which may help support adequate iron levels, which is essential for proper blood formation.

Yohimbe bark (Pausinystalia yohimbe): Supports healthy circulation to the male reproductive organs. Yohimbe has been shown to help sustain erection and may help to make erection firmer. This herb also supports healthy libido. Learn more here…

Dalene Barton-Schuster - 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.

Dr. Christine Traxler M.D., OB/GYN

Dr. Traxler is a University-trained obstetrician/gynecologist, working with patients in Minnesota for over 20 years. She is a professional medical writer; having authored multiple books on pregnancy and childbirth; textbooks and coursework for medical students and other healthcare providers; and has written over 1000 articles on medical, health, and wellness topics.  Dr. Traxler attended the University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences and University of Minnesota Medical School,  earning a degree in biochemistry with summa cum laude honors in 1981,  and receiving her Medical Doctorate degree (MD) in 1986.