As we mentioned in previous articles, infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months of unprotected sex. It affects more than 5 million couples in the US alone, and many times more in the world. Due to ignorance of the treatments, only 10% seek help from professional specialists. We have spent most of the time in this series discussing conventional and Chinese medicine for fertility treatment. I think it is the best time to change the subject by discussing how to treat female infertility with the Chinese herb: bupleurum.
I. Definition
Bupleurum is also known as Bei Chai Hu. They are a very large genus of plants and belong to the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat infections, fever, and liver problems.
II. How Bupleurum Affects Female Fertility
1. Stagnation of liver qi
The herb is said to have a liver tonic effect that helps to release stagnant liver qi as a result of the accumulation of toxins in the body, leading to abnormalities of the liver in regulating spleen function in the insulin production. This results in a hormonal imbalance and an irregular menstrual cycle. In addition, a slow liver reduces its function in the metabolism of essential fatty acids, leading to an excessive production of certain hormones of the prostaglandin family. This results in menstrual cramps and cramps, and an overactive uterus that affects fertility chances.
2. Kidney
Not only does it help improve kidney function in the extraction of urine, but it also restores its function by regulating steroid growth hormone, which leads to hormonal balance and decreases the risk of irregular menstrual cycle.
3. Renal yin deficiency
It is considered a cool to cool herb, so it helps release abundant qi yang that obstructs the normal process of egg production and increases the risk of irregular menstrual cycle.
4. Immune system
Bupleurum is also a cold side to cold immune function tonic. In addition to helping the immune system fight off the invasion of bacteria and viruses, it also helps the immune system recognize that sperm are part of the body’s tissue and not attack them. It works well if the infection is caused by abnormal immune function in yin qi deficiency.
5. Spleen function
It also has an effect on the function of the spleen in the production of insulin that helps reduce the risk of insulin fluctuation, leading to the production of certain hormones (such as serotonin) and interrupting the production of hormones (progesterone), which increases the chances of fertility.
6. Blood flow
Bupleurum is said to help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, therefore it does not help improve heart function, but also increases blood flow to reproductive organs, reducing the risk of infertility.
III. Side effects
May cause
1. Nausea
3. Reflux
4. Increase bowel movements
If you overdose.