Fertility Archives

15/Jan/2024

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects men of all ages, causing significant emotional distress and damaging their relationships with their partners. The causes of ED range from physical to psychological, and conventional treatments like medications and surgery may come with unwanted side effects. However, many men are turning to natural, non-invasive, and effective naturopathic solutions that address the root causes of ED and restore their sexual function. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes and cures of ED from a naturopathic perspective and provide you with practical tips that can improve your sexual health and overall wellness.

Understanding the Causes of ED: Naturopathic Approach

One of the primary causes of ED is poor blood flow to the penis, which may result from cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, diabetes, or atherosclerosis. Therefore, a naturopathic approach to ED involves improving blood flow through lifestyle changes, such as exercising, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and following a healthy diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Additionally, naturopathic practitioners may recommend supplements like ginkgo biloba, L-arginine, and niacin, which are known to boost blood flow, decrease inflammation, and improve endothelial function.

Another potential cause of ED is hormonal imbalances, especially low levels of testosterone, which is responsible for male sexual drive and performance. Naturopathic solutions for hormonal imbalances may include lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress levels, as well as supplements like Tribulus terrestris and Tongkat Ali, which are natural testosterone boosters. Moreover, certain foods like oysters, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate are rich in zinc, which supports healthy testosterone levels.

For more articles on hormonal health Click Here

Addressing Psychological Causes of ED: Naturopathic Methods

ED may also have psychological causes, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. Naturopathic practitioners view mental health as an essential aspect of overall wellness, and they may suggest various approaches to address psychological factors that contribute to ED. Some of these methods include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that interfere with sexual function,
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), which teaches patients how to manage stress and anxiety through meditation and breathing techniques
Couples therapy, which aims to improve communication and intimacy between partners.

Check out 4 CBT based steps for overcoming ED Here

Herbal Remedies for ED: Naturopathic Alternatives

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat various sexual dysfunctions, and many of them have been shown to be effective for ED. Some of the most commonly used herbs for ED include Panax ginseng, Maca root, horny goat weed, and ashwagandha. These herbs have different mechanisms of action, such as improving blood flow, increasing libido, and reducing stress. However, it’s important to note that herbal remedies may interact with medications or have unwanted side effects if not used correctly, so it’s essential to consult with a licensed naturopathic practitioner before trying them.

Acupuncture and Other Naturopathic Therapies for ED

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting hair-thin needles into specific points of the body to balance energy flow and promote healing. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective for various sexual dysfunctions, including ED, by improving blood flow, reducing stress, and balancing hormones. Other naturopathic therapies that may benefit ED include chiropractic care, massage therapy, and hydrotherapy, which may enhance blood flow and relaxation.

For more articles on optimizing virility Click Here

Naturopathic Acupuncture for Anxiety, Stress and Depression

Conclusion:

Erectile dysfunction is a prevalent and treatable condition that affects men of all ages. Naturopathic solutions for ED involve a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes of ED, such as poor blood flow, hormonal imbalances, and psychological factors, through lifestyle changes, supplements, herbal remedies, and various therapies. Naturopathic treatments for ED are non-invasive, safe, and effective, and they may provide long-lasting results that improve overall sexual health and wellbeing. If you’re struggling with ED, consider consulting with a licensed naturopathic practitioner to create a personalized treatment plan that works for you.

DoctorShawn

08/Aug/2023

If you enjoy checking out the latest health craze on social media then you may have heard about the numerous benefits of borax. Borax, which is also known as sodium borate, is a white mineral compound that has been used for a variety of purposes for many years.

The “Borax Train”

The “borax train” is a recent trend that has emerged on TikTok, where users are claiming that consuming borax can help treat various health issues such as joint pain and swelling in the eyes and mouth. However, this trend is highly alarming and dangerous as borax is a cleaning product with no proven health benefits.

In fact, borax can be toxic and even lethal when ingested in high amounts. It can cause gastrointestinal issues, nausea, and other severe health problems. Despite these risks, some TikTok influencers are encouraging their followers to get on the ‘Borax Train’.

This blog will provide you with 5 reasons why you should not consume borax, as well as 5 perfectly safe uses for borax that you can start using today.

1. Borax is toxic:

Borax is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems when ingested. Some of the symptoms of borax poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headaches. It can also cause reproductive issues, damage to the brain and kidney, and even death in extreme cases. The dangers of borax only increase when it is consumed in large quantities or over a long period of time.

2. Borax is not a food:

Despite some claims that borax is a natural and safe food additive, it is not intended for human consumption. While it may have some uses in cosmetic and household products, it is not recognized as a food or supplement by any health organizations.

3. Borax can be harmful to children:

Children are especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of borax because of their smaller size and developing bodies. Allowing children to come into contact with borax can put them at risk for serious medical problems.

4. Borax can be dangerous when handling:

Borax is also a skin and eye irritant that can cause redness, swelling, and even chemical burns when it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is important to always handle it with care and avoid inhaling it or getting it in your eyes or mouth.

5. Health risks during pregnancy:

Borax can be harmful to reproductive health, especially during pregnancy. It can harm the fetus and lead to developmental problems. Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should avoid the use of borax.

Safe Uses for Borax

Despite the potential dangers of borax, there are still many great uses for this compound. Here are five safe and effective ways to use borax in your home and personal care routine:

1. All-purpose cleaner:

Borax can be used as a natural cleaning agent to clean counters, floors, and surfaces in your home. Simply mix borax with warm water, vinegar, and lemon juice to create an all-purpose cleaning solution that is both safe and effective.

2. Laundry booster:

Adding a tablespoon of borax to your laundry cycle can help eliminate tough stains and odors, leaving your clothes fresh and clean.

3. Silver cleaner:

Borax can be used as a silver cleaner by mixing it with water and vinegar to create a paste. It can remove tarnish and give back the shine to your silverware.

4. Pest control:

Borax can be used to kill ants, cockroaches, and other household pests. Simply sprinkle it in areas where pests are known to congregate.

5. Carpet cleaner:

Sprinkle borax on your carpet before vacuuming to help eliminate odors and freshen up your carpet. Borax may have some great uses when handled properly, but it is important to remember that it is not a safe substance to consume. Always be careful when handling borax and be sure to keep it out of the reach of children. If you are looking for safe and natural alternatives to borax, there are plenty of options available that can help you achieve the same great results without putting your health at risk.

drshawn

18/Nov/2022

If you and your partner are trying to conceive, you may be looking for ways to increase your sperm count. Although there are medical treatments available, there are also some natural methods you can try. Here are 10 ways to increase sperm count naturally.

1. Eat foods rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants are nutrients that help protect your cells from damage. They’re found in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Some studies have found that certain antioxidants may improve sperm count and quality. One study found that men who took 2,000 IU of vitamin E daily for 84 days had significantly higher sperm counts than those who took a placebo.

Vitamin C is another antioxidant that’s been studied for its effects on sperm count. One small study found that men who took 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily for 2 weeks had higher sperm counts than those who didn’t take the supplement.

2. Get enough vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for many aspects of health, including fertility. A vitamin D deficiency has been linked with low testosterone levels and poor semen quality. One study found that men with vitamin D deficiencies had lower levels of testosterone and poorer semen quality than those who had sufficient levels of vitamin D. Another study found that taking a vitamin D supplement improved semen quality in men with vitamin D deficiencies. If you think you might be deficient in vitamin D, talk to your doctor about being tested and taking a supplement if necessary.

3. Eat more fatty fish

Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids which are important for many aspects of health, including fertility. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve semen quality in men with fertility problems. One study found that taking an omega-3 supplement improved sperm motility and morphology in men with low sperm counts . Another study found similar results , but only in men with normal or slightly low sperm counts.

If you don’t eat fish, you can get omega-3s from flaxseeds or take an omega-3 supplement. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements since they can interact with certain medications.

4. Get enough zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that’s important for many aspects of health, including fertility . It’s needed for the production of testosterone and other hormones involved in reproduction. A zinc deficiency has been linked with low testosterone levels, poor semen quality, and increased risks of infertility. One study found that taking a zinc supplement improved fertility in men with zinc deficiencies. Another study showed that taking a zinc supplement increased testosterone levels and improved semen quality in infertile men. Good food sources of zinc include oysters, beef, lamb, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate.

5. Limit your alcohol intake

Alcohol consumption has been linked with decreased testosterone levels, poor semen quality, and increased risks of infertility. One study showed that moderate alcohol intake (up to three drinks per week) was associated with lower risks of infertility but heavy drinking (more than three drinks per week) was associated with higher risks of infertility. Another study showed that alcohol consumption was associated with lower semen quality but did not affect testosterone levels or the percentage of abnormal sperm. Therefore, it’s best to limit your alcohol intake if you’re trying to conceive or talk to your doctor about quitting altogether if you’re struggling with fertility issues.

6. Get regular exercise

Exercise helps to improve blood circulation, which in turn can improve your sperm count. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that men who exercised regularly had higher sperm counts than those who didn’t exercise at all.

7. Reduce stress levels

Stress has been shown to have a negative impact on male fertility. In a study by Shebl et al. (2015), it was found that men who were under stress had a lower sperm count than those who were not. This is likely due to the hormonal changes that occur with stress. Cortisol, which is released in response to stress, can interfere with testosterone production and negatively affect sperm count.

There are many different ways to reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, and aromatherapy. These methods can help to restore balance to the body and reduce the negative effects of stress on hormones.

8. Quit smoking

Smoking has been linked with a number of health problems, including DNA damage and decreased sperm count. A study by Lai et al. (2013) found that smoking causes significant DNA damage in the sperm of smokers, which can lead to decreased fertility and increased rates of miscarriage. Another study by Bohlin et al. (2010) found that smoking can decrease sperm count by up to 34%, and that this decrease in fertility is even more pronounced in men who smoke more than 20 cigarettes per day.

9. Get enough sleep

Sleep is important for all aspects of health, including reproductive health. A lack of sleep can decrease testosterone levels and reduce the quality of your sperm. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night.

10. Herbal therapy

Some traditional herbal medicines have been shown to have a positive effect on sperm count and quality. For instance Ashwagandha is an herb that has been traditionally used in ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of issues ranging from anxiety and stress to infertility. There is some evidence that ashwagandha can help increase sperm count and improve sperm quality. One study found that men who took ashwagandha for 90 days had a 17% increase in sperm count and a 35% increase in sperm quality. Another study showed that ashwagandha improved the motility of sperm and increased the percentage of normal sperm cells. Ashwagandha is available in capsule or powder form and can be taken daily.

Conclusion

If you and your partner are trying to conceive, consider making some lifestyle changes. Natural male fertility strategies like the ones we’ve talked about in this blog post can make a big difference when it comes to boosting sperm count. Talk to your naturopathic doctor about which of these 10 methods might work best for you and start making some changes today. By taking charge of your health, you increase your chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.