Herbs and Infertility: new findings than can make a difference

by Barry Bittman, MD

The fact that herbs are real medicines should not be surprising. 

In previous columns, Ive presented the benefits and side effects of over-the-counter naturally-occurring supplements.  Ive also discussed the rationale for scientifically testing these substances for safety and effectiveness.

What you are about to learn will not affect your health.  Yet, it just might affect your ability to have children, or your future offspring.  Researchers at Loma Linda University School of Medicine recently studied four herbs for fertility effects.  They tested St. Johns wort, echinacea, ginkgo biloba, and saw palmetto in the same manner specifically used for standard prescription drugs.

The studies were performed in vitro, meaning that testing occurred outside of the body.  Human sperm and eggs were exposed to varying concentrations of these herbs.  Doses represented a fraction of the manufacturers recommendations.

According to Dr. Richard Ondrizek, The ability of sperm to penetrate the egg was  completely blocked by St. Johns wort.  Echinacea and ginkgo reduced the ability to fertilize the egg.  The researchers found that eggs treated with Ginkgo also appeared visibly degenerated.

In addition, it was disclosed that reduced sperm viability was induced by echinacea and St. Johns wort.  Furthermore, St. Johns wort was associated with DNA changes in a gene called BRCA 1, a mutation associated with increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.  Only saw palmetto did not damage sperm or eggs.

While it is not known how these substances concentrate in sperm or eggs, this study brings to light important information that is often shared by fertility experts.  Dr. Eric Widra of Georgetown University said, I do tell folks to stop taking them (herbal supplements) when they're doing fertility treatment.  Yet, thats not what the herbalists are preaching.

While it has been well-established that herbal forms of birth control have existed throughout the ages, the herbal internet sites I checked failed to caution people about the substances discussed above and their effects on conception.  One site explained that their herbs work well in combination with allopathic medicine, and that it may be necessary to use more than one medical system to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

On the net, substances such as Black Cohosh, and Blue Cohosh were recommended during pregnancy to tone the uterus, and regulate contractions at birth.  In another article presented at the same site, it was advised that Black Cohosh be avoided during pregnancy for its effect as a uterine stimulant. Use only those herbs, singly or in combinations, as teas or tinctures, which fit your needs, the author commented.  The same article suggested, As always, be in contact with your health practitioner if you are experiencing serious problems or discomfort.

Now frankly, who are we kidding?  How can you know which of these substances fits your needs?  And when it comes to asking your doctor, face it, the odds are that he or she knows little to nothing about these substances.  Its time we abandoned this foolishness.  Every physician is concerned, and often worried about the majority of prescription drugs a woman might take during pregnancy.

And if this data doesnt produce an inkling of skepticism, consider the following:  One company on the internet is advertising a $29.95 herbal breast milk enhancement kit.  I suppose when it comes to herbs everything is fair game; even breast milk, the most perfect natural substance known.  When will people learn?

Ultimately, the choice of what you take during pregnancy is yours alone, especially when the FDA fails to control false advertising claims.  Dont be swayed by advertising gimmicks, and always research anything you are about to place into your body. 

This doctor recommends that if youre trying to conceive, avoid all herbs, supplements and drugs not recommended by your physician.  The same advice pertains to pregnancy; especially the first trimester.

Realize that while science does not have all the answers, just because a substance is natural doesnt mean it is good for you, or your baby¾ Mind Over Matter!