Alternative Therapies - Female

Several herbs effectively stimulate hormones necessary to fertility.

	Stinging nettle seeds contain estrogen-like phytohormones. Drink 3 cups of tea daily or add 1 tsp. of seeds to every meal. Prepare tea by adding 1 handful of seeds to 1 qt. of boiling water.
	Red clover blossoms help restore and balance hormonal functions and nourish the uterus. The calcium and magnesium in the plant relax the nervous system and improve fertility. Red clover also balances the acid-alkaline level of the vagina which promotes conception. Combine with peppermint for flavor and sexual stimulation. Add 1 oz. of red clover blossoms and 1 tsp. of peppermint leaves to 1 qt. of boiling water. Steep for four hours. Strain and drink throughout the day for several months at a time.
	Wild raspberry leaf tea is an effective uterine tonic and contains a large amount of calcium. Drink 1 cup three times daily.
	Lady's mantle strengthens the uterus lining, heals wounds and protects the mucous membranes. It inhibits spasms and regulates blood flow. Drink 10-15 drops of tincture in water three times daily.
	St. John's wort blossom tea improves mood, calms, heals wounds and works as a nerve tonic. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 tsp. of blossoms, Steep for five minutes, strain and drink.
	Agnus castus acts on the pituitary gland to stimulate hormones involved in ovulation
	False unicorn root stimulates the ovaries themselves and restores hormonal balance.
	Wild yam is traditionally linked with the regulation of female hormones and the health of the reproductive organs. It contains a phytochemical that is a precursor of progesterone, the hormone that stimulates the uterus to prepare for pregnancy.
	Rosemary helps maintain hormone balance.
	German chamomile eases stress and promotes relaxation.
	A dong quai combination formula, such as dong quai and peony or dong quai and bupleururn, help to strengthen the female hormonal system
	Damiana, ginseng, gotu kola, licorice root, and blue cohosh are also good for women.

If the infertility is due to elevated prolactin levels or ovarian insufficiency, an extract of chaste berry (Vitex agnus-castus) can be helpful. The usual dosage of chaste berry extract (often standardized to contain 0.5 percent agnuside) is 175 to 225 milligrams daily. It may take chaste berry extract a few months to produce its beneficial effects in restoring female balance. If a woman is ovulating, has no scarring, and still does not conceive, low thyroid function may be a factor.