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This vividly red, vegetable-based oil hails from Southeast Asia. Neem oil is used to treat acne, malaria, tuberculosis, leprosy, rheumatic disorders and fevers. It is also used as a diuretic, antiseptic, insecticide and contraceptive. Men and women often use neem oil as lubrication during sex as it acts as a spermicide. If taken orally by men it causes temporary sterility. If trying to conceive, do not use neem oil. Try a sperm-friendly lubricant instead, like PreSeed.
Echinacea is a North American herbaceous wildflower with countless health benefits. Used as an alternative form of medicine, Echinacea naturally boosts immune system health as it can fight off several health hazards including bacteria, viruses, cancer cells, colds, bronchitis, candida and herpes. In regards to enhancing fertility however, Echinacea receives a big F. This herb contains a substance that studies have shown to interfere with the process of unfertilized eggs and their successful release into the fallopian tubes. Additionally, men taking Echinacea will experience a significant decrease in fertility. This is because Echinacea destroys hyaluronidase, an enzyme that naturally secretes from sperm to partially dissolve a section of the surface of an unfertilized egg so that the sperm can successfully get inside.
QAL, also known as Wild Carrot, is native to Northeastern Africa and Eurasia and can be used to relieve gas, kidney disease and treat digestive problems. Just like neem oil, QAL is another herb that can be used as a naturally occurring contraceptive. Its use as a contraceptive dates back to the late 5th or 4th century B.C., and research has shown that it is the extracts from the seeds that disrupt the implantation process. It can be taken orally shortly after having sex, but is by no means a failsafe contraceptive.
Rue (ruta graveolens) has been used throughout history to induce miscarriages by ingesting it as a tea. Rue contains two chemicals that are known to cause abortion. Philocarpine is the first, and is used in veterinary medicine largely to abort horse pregnancies. Rutin is a bioflavinoid that strengthens arteries, veins, bones and teeth, but can also be used as an emergency contraceptive as it stimulates and prolongs the effects of adrenaline. Adrenaline works to decrease capillary permeability and causes the endometrium to become inhospitable to a fertilized egg.
This Asian tree has powerful extracts full of very potent antioxidants. As an anticoagulant, it increases blood flow to the reproductive organs and some studies have shown that it is capable of treating impotence in men. But a downside to its ability to nullify blood coagulation is that it is known to prevent embryos from implanting in the uterus. Alternative ways to increase blood flow to the reproductive organs include moderate exercise, femoral massage, pelvic massage and acupuncture. There are also other antioxidant-rich vitamins that can be taken in its stead, such as Vitamin E.
Cotton Root Bark is an evergreen shrub that is grown in India. It has been used to treat snakebites, dysentery and fevers. Cotton Root Bark stimulates sexual libido, but also stimulates uterine contractions. Additionally, according to research conducted in China, Cotton Root Bark interferes with the production of progesterone. Progesterone must produce itself in order for pregnancy to occur.
This herb is native to Europe, its use for medicinal purposes dating back to Ancient Greece. St. John’s Wart is used to treat depression, anxiety, fatigue, loss of appetite and sleeping problems. Despite its many uses, St. John’s Wart can affect fertility substantially. In men, St. John’s Wart makes it far more difficult for sperm to penetrate and fertilize an egg. Additionally, St. John's Wart can cause genetic sperm mutation.
Liquorice is grown in Central and Southern Europe and most commonly used to treat tooth decay and rosacea. But licorice is a big no-no if you’re trying to get pregnant. Licorice is known to decrease testosterone in men and stunt healthy sperm production. Not only that, but it also increases blood pressure and water retention.
