Using Nootropics for Fertility, Pregnancy, and Conception
Of the many benefits nootropics can offer, some provide excellent boosts to fertility and libido. And while improving fertility is a sensitive topic and all nootropics are different, these herbs are classified as such for their ability to offer improvements that are still generally considered safe for consumption when free of contaminants and interactions with other drugs (Bent, 2008). Still, it is important to remember fertility (and the creation of life) is such a sensitive topic that it is imperative to consult a physician before adding any vitamin, nootropic, or supplement to a daily regimen. The nootropics on this list have been isolated as some of the safest, most widely utilized herbs for fertility.
Top Nootropics for Fertility
Out of the many nootropics for fertility, a handful stand out as clear winners. They are both generally regarded as safe for human consumption, have a lot of history in terms of use, and are easily accessible as a dietary supplement.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful, natural fertility boosters for men, with the purported ability to improve semen content and quality (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has been proven to help with erectile dysfunction (Weil, 2004). Several studies and clinical trials exist which highlight the plant’s ability to improve male infertility, increase serum testosterone, and increase luteinizing hormones (Murray & Pizzorno, 1998). Generally, the herb achieves its improved fertility (in both men and women) by increasing blood circulation throughout the body (Ambiye et al., 2013). For these reasons it is also one of the best natural aphrodisiacs (2013).
Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa Monnieri is a strong herb in the treatment of inferility and libido in women (Chevallier, 2016). Still, the plant has been used for thousands of years to treat sex-related ailments in men, including impotence, premature ejaculation, infertility, and general libido (2016). While the herb may offer these benefits, however, it is important to note it could come at the cost of sperm production count and quality (Mishra et al., 2018). For this reason, it is more commonly used for its ability to promote libido and sexual function in females (2018).
Honorable Mentions
Although there are many nootropics which can help with fertility, conception, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and libido, a couple others shine under the spotlight. Tongkat Ali is a well-known aphrodisiac, boosting libido and promoting healthy sexual activity (Tambi & Imran, 2010). The herb is able to reduce stress and stabilize sex drive (2010). It has also been suggested to improve testosterone and overall sexual performance in men (Ang et al., 2000). It even bears the traditional nickname “Ali’s Walking Stick,” playing on its purported aphrodisiac properties (Rehman et al., 2016).
Another honorable mention goes out to the Cordyceps Mushroom. This mushroom is also well known for its ability to improve fertility in both men and women alike (Panda & Swain, 2011). It has been purportedly able to increase sperm count, improve erectile dysfunction, and extend erectile capacity. Cordyceps is even suggested to have the ability to increase physical endurance during sex. Many studies have outlined its potential as a general aphrodisiac, and it has been called a powerful female aphrodisiac, even delaying muscle fatigue (2011).
Closing Notes on Using Nootropics for Fertility
Finding the right nootropic for any stack can mean a lot of trial and error, however, the nootropics on this list have proven themselves to stand out from the rest when it comes to fertility and conception. Specific nootropics obviously provide varying effects from individual to individual, but depending upon the desired outcome, usually the choice is rather obvious. For instance, a male is more likely to use Ashwagandha for its purported abilities to improve erectile dysfunction, while a female is more likely to use Bacopa Monnieri for its purported abilities to improve libido and treat infertility. For these reasons, it is worth reading up on all the nootropics on this list before deciding upon the perfect choice for any nootropic stack.
A Note From NooFiles
This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.
Sources
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Ang, H., Cheang, H., and Yusof, A. (2000). Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) on the initiation of sexual performance of inexperienced castrated male rats. Exp Anim. Vol. 49(1). Pp. 35-8. DOI: 10.1538/expanim.49.35
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Mishra, R. K., Singh, S., & Singh, S. K. (2018). Natural products in regulation of male fertility. The Indian journal of medical research. Vol. 148(Suppl). Pp. S107–S114. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_1968_17
Murray, M., and Pizzorno, J. (1998). The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Third Edition. Atria Paperback. ISBN 978-1-4516-6300-6
Panda, A. K., & Swain, K. C. (2011). Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 2(1), 9–13. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-9476.78183
Rehman, S. U., Choe, K., and Yoo, H. H. (2016). Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Vol. 21(3). Pp. 331. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21030331
Tambi, M. I., & Imran, M. K. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian journal of andrology, 12(3), 376–380. https://doi.org/10.1038/aja.2010.7 Weil, A. (2004). Natural Health, Natural Medicine. Houghton Mifflin Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-618-47903-0