Many couples look for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a natural way to help them conceive. TCM believes in restoring the balance of the body so that it is suitable for conceiving. Medications are customised to each individual’s condition and body constitution. The herbs are safe to consume and have minimal side effects when taken correctly but do note that these herbs should be consumed under the prescription by a licensed TCM physician only as they may not be suitable for some individuals.
TCM can be used alone to improve fertility or used in combination with conventional fertility treatment. However, the TCM medications prescribed vary according to different physicians, where a prescription will be prepared based on the diagnosis of the patient and involve combining the use of various herbs to achieve the best therapeutic effect.
The main focus of TCM is to help balance the function of our spleen, liver and kidneys which are organs responsible for fertility. When these organs are functioning well, it can help to regulate hormones and menstruation. The quality of eggs and sperm may also be improved to increase the chance of conceiving a healthy baby. TCM can also manage common conditions that cause infertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids, erectile dysfunction, and many more. Physician Ng Qing Xiang of Eu Yan Sang TCM Clinic @ Bedok and Harbourfront tells us which herbs are best if you want to welcome a baby this year:
“Panax notoginseng is able to replenish blood and improve blood circulation in the body. It can help to remove blood stasis, which is a common problem in Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and uterine fibroid patients. It can be consumed daily in small amounts or used with a combination of herbs.”
“Motherwort herb literally translates into ‘herbs beneficial for mothers’ in Chinese. It can promote blood circulation, regulate menses, and relieve menstrual cramps. It is commonly used to treat menstruation irregularities, menstrual cramps, and the absence of menstruation in women.”
“Epimedium leaf can help to boost the kidney function and is useful for woman who have cold hands and feet or late and little menstruation. Studies have also shown that the epimedium leaf is useful in increasing sexual arousal for both man and woman.”
“Mugwort leaves channel into the meridians of the liver, spleen and kidney, which are organs vital for fertility. Being warm in nature, mugwort leaves can dispel cold and alleviate pain. It is useful for woman who experience cold uterus, menstrual cramps and menstruation irregularities. Mugwort leaves can also help to stop bleeding, hence, suitable for woman who have prolonged and heavy menstruation. The herb can be consumed or used externally in moxibustion treatment.”
“Dodder seed nourishes the kidney and liver, making it suitable for people who experience lower back pain, weak knees, involuntary urination, or recurrent miscarriages. It can also help to prevent miscarriages during pregnancy. Hence, the herb can be used before pregnancy to increase chances of conceiving, as well as during pregnancy to protect the fetus.”
“Donkey-hide gelatin derives from the skin of donkeys. As these herbs comes from an animal part, it has a better function than plant-based herbs in tonifying blood in the body. It is suitable for those who are diagnosed with blood deficiency syndrome. Common symptoms experienced by this group of people includes pale complexion, pale lips and tongue, giddiness, heart palpitations and fatigue.”