This was taken from    HerbalMothering@onelist.com  Linda has some excellent information 
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Male Fertility 

Lifestyle changes that may be helpful: Some conventional medications can interfere with fertility. If in doubt, individuals taking prescription drugs should research the effects of all drugs they are taking. 

Nutritional supplements that may be helpful: 

Vitamin C 
Protects sperm from oxidative damage.(1) Supplementing vitamin C improves the quality of sperm in smokers.(2) When sperm stick together (a condition called agglutination), fertility is reduced. Vitamin C reduces sperm agglutination,(3) increasing the fertility of men with this condition.(4) Many doctors of natural medicine recommend 1 gram of vitamin C per day for infertile men, particularly those diagnosed with sperm agglutination. 

Zinc:     

A lack of zinc can reduce testosterone levels.(5) For men with low testosterone levels, zinc supplementation raises testosterone and also increases fertility.(6) For men with low semen zinc levels, zinc supplements may increase both sperm counts and fertility.(7) Most studies have infertile men take zinc supplements for at least several months. The ideal amount of supplemental 
zinc remains unknown, but some doctors of natural medicine recommend 25 mg three times per day. 

Arginine: 
This is an amino acid found in many foods. It is needed to produce sperm. Most research shows that several months of arginine supplementation increases sperm count and quality(8,9) and also fertility.(10,11) However, some studies have reported that arginine helps few,(12) if any, infertile men.(13) Nonetheless, many doctors of natural medicine suggest 4 grams of arginine per 
day for several months to see if it will help infertile men. 

Coenzyme Q10      
This is a nutrient used by the body in the production of energy. While its exact role in the formation of sperm is unknown, there is evidence that as little as 10 mg per day (over a two-week period) will increase sperm count and motility. 

Vitamin E:
A deficiency in animals leads to infertility.(15) In a preliminary human trial, 100-200 IU of vitamin E given to each man and woman of infertile couples led to a significant increase in fertility.(16)

Vitamin B12: 
It is needed to maintain fertility. Vitamin B12 injections have increased sperm counts for men with low numbers of sperm.(17) These results have been duplicated in double-blind  research. (18) Men seeking B12 injections should consult a nutritionally oriented physician. 

Carnitine: 
A substance made in the body and also found in supplements. It appears to be necessary for normal functioning of sperm cells.  Supplementing with 3 grams per day for four months has helped to normalize sperm in men with low sperm quality in several studies.(19,20) 

SAMe
Preliminary research suggests oral SAMe may increase sperm activity in infertile men.(21) 

Are there any side effects or interactions? see below

Vitamin C: 
Some individuals develop diarrhea after as little as a few thousand milligrams of vitamin C per day, while others are not bothered by ten times this amount. However, high levels of vitamin C can deplete the body of copper,(22) an essential nutrient.   It is prudent to ensure adequate copper intake at higher intakes of vitamin C (copper is found in many multivitamin/mineral 
supplements). 

Zinc:      
Individuals who take 30 mg or more of zinc per day for more than a few months should balance the zinc with copper in order to prevent copper deficiency. For 30 mg per day of zinc, 2 mg per day of copper is usually taken. For 60-90 mg per day of zinc, 3-4 mg per day of copper is a reasonable amount. Zinc intake in excess of 300 mg per day may impair immune function. Zinc 
has been reported to increase glycosylation with IDDM (insulin dependent diabetes mellitus)an indicator of trouble. (This problem does not occur with NIDDM.) While doctors of natural medicine believe this increase may be an error, people with IDDM supplementing with zinc should consult a nutritionally oriented doctor. Zinc competes for absorption with iron, calcium, 
and magnesium. A multimineral supplement will prevent mineral imbalances that can result from taking high doses of zinc for extended periods of time. 

Arginine: 
Individuals with kidney or liver disease should consult their nutritionally oriented doctors before supplementing with arginine.  Individuals with herpes (either cold sores or genital herpes) should not take arginine, because it can stimulate replication of the virus. 

Coenzyme Q10     
Congestive heart failure patients taking coenzyme Q10 should not abruptly discontinue taking supplements without first consulting a physician. An isolated test tube study reported that the anticancer action of a certain cholesterol-lowering drug was blocked by addition of coenzyme Q10.(23) So far, experts in the field have put little stock in this report because its results have 
not yet been confirmed in animal, human, or even other test tube studies. The drug used in the test tube study is not used to treat cancer, and preliminary information regarding the use of high amounts of coenzyme Q10 in humans suggests the possibility of anticancer activity.(24, 25, 26) 

Vitamin E: 
Vitamin E toxicity is very rare; supplements are widely considered to be safe. 

Vitamin B12:  
Vitamin B12 supplements are not associated with side effects. 

Carnitine:
Carnitine has not been consistently linked with any toxicity. 

SAMe   (S-adenosyl-L-methionine): 
SAMe is normally produced in the liver from the amino acid methionine, which is abundant in most diets. Folic acid and vitamin B12 are necessary for the synthesis of SAMe, and deficiencies of these vitamins results in low concentrations of SAM in the central nervous system. 
Clinical trials in thousands of people for up to two years have demonstrated that SAMe is very well tolerated, much better than the medications it has often been compared with. Occasional gastrointestinal upset may be experienced by some people. 
Researchers treating people with manic-depression (bipolar illness) have reported that SAMe could cause them to switch from depression to a manic episode. SAMe has been used in a study of pregnant women and was found to be safe. 

Yohimbe: 
Herbs that may be helpful: Yohimbe dilates blood vessels, making this herb useful for treating male impotence, which can be a cause of infertility. A tincture of yohimbe bark is often used in the amount of 5-10 drops three times per day. There are also standardized yohimbe products available for the treatment of impotence. A typical daily amount of yohimbine is 15-30 mg. It’s 
best to use yohimbine under the supervision of a nutritionally oriented doctor.  With kidney disease or peptic ulcer and pregnant or lactating women should not use yohimbe. Standard doses may sometimes cause dizziness, nausea, insomnia, or anxiety. Using more than 40 mg of yohimbe per day can cause dangerous side effects, including loss of muscle function, chills, and vertigo. Some people will also experience hallucinations when taking higher amounts of yohimbe. Foods with high amounts of tyramine (such as cheese, red wine, and liver) should not be eaten while a person is taking yohimbe, as it may cause severe hypertension and other problems. 

Damiana: 
Sometimes helpful for men with impotence. Damiana is not usually used alone; it is believed to be more effective when combined with other herbs of similar or complementary activity. 
Higher doses of damiana may induce a mild sense of euphoria. The leaves have a minor laxative effect, which is more pronounced at higher intakes, and may cause loosening of stools. 

Ginkgo biloba:                      
By increasing arterial blood flow, may help some impotent men.(27) Ginkgo is essentially devoid of any serious side effects. Mild headaches lasting for a day or two and mild upset stomach have been reported in a very small percentage of people using ginkgo. There are no known contraindications to the use of ginkgo by pregnant and lactating women. 

Asian ginseng:  
May also be supportive for male potency. 
Used as recommended, Asian ginseng is generally safe. In rare instances, ginseng may cause overstimulation and possibly insomnia. Consuming caffeine with ginseng increases the risk of overstimulation and gastrointestinal upset. Persons with uncontrolled high blood pressure should not use ginseng. Long-term use of ginseng may cause menstrual abnormalities and 
breast tenderness in some women. Ginseng is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. 
 

Homeopathic Remedies for Impotence: 

Failure to achieve or maintain an erection and premature ejaculation are problems that warrant professional attention. Many factors can contribute to impotence, including diet, physical activity level, and psychological issues. The homeopathic medicines described below may provide some help. The following are a representative selection of the homeopathic remedies that may help this condition. It is recommended that a homeopathic practitioner be consulted. 

Lycopodium 30c: This remedy is considered useful when a man is no longer able to achieve an erection. An enlarged prostate may also be present. Men who may benefit from this remedy may lack self-confidence and be concerned about failing memory.  Lycopodium 30c can be taken once per day for a week, and then once a week for the following month. 

Argentum nitricum 30c: If a man’s erection fails when coitus is attempted, this medicine might provide a measure of assistance.  This remedy is most useful for men who are anxious, very hurried, very warm-blooded, and have a noticeable craving for sweets and salt. Argentum nitricum 30c can be taken once per day for a week, and then once a week for the following month. 

Selenium metallicum 30c: This remedy is for men who still have an abundance of sexual fantasies but have lost their sexual ability. Men needing this remedy are often greatly exhausted by even slight effort and may be losing hair more than normally.   Selenium metallicum 30c can be taken once daily for a week, then once a week for the following month. 

Hypericum 6c: This is a good remedy for injuries to areas with high concentrations of nerve endings, such as the fingers. It is also effective for easing the pain of puncture wounds and crushing injuries. Try Hypericum 6c every hour for up to six times per day, reducing to three to four times per day until symptoms improve. 

References: 

1. Fraga CG, Motchnik PA, Shigenaga MK, et all. Ascorbic acid protects against endogenous oxidative DNA damage in human sperm. Proc Natl Acad Sci 1991;88:11003-6. 
2. Dawson EB, Harris WA, Teter MC, Powell LC. Effect of ascorbic acid supplementation on the sperm quality of smokers. Fertil Steril 1992;58:1034-9. 
3. Dawson EB, Harris WA, McGanity WJ. Effect of ascorbic acid on sperm fertility. Fed Proc 1983;42:531 [abstr 31403]. 
4. Dawson EB, Harris WA, Powell LC. Relationship between ascorbic acid and male fertility. In: Aspects of Some Vitamins, 
Minerals and Enzymes in Health and Disease, ed. GH Bourne. World Rev Nutr Diet 1990;62:1-26 [review]. 
5. Hunt CD, Johnson PE, Herbel JoL, Mullen LK. Effects of dietary zinc depletion on seminal volume and zinc loss, serum 
testosterone concentrations, and sperm morphology in young men. Am J Clin Nutr 1992;56:148-57. 
6. Netter A, Hartoma R, Nahoul K. Effect of zinc administration on plasma testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and sperm count.   Arch Androl 1981;7:69-73. 
7. Marmar JL et al. Semen zinc levels in infertile and postvasectomy patients and patients with prostatitis. Fertil Steril   1975:26:1057-63. 
8. de Aloysio D, Mantuano R, Mauloni M, Nicoletti G. The clinical use of arginine aspartate in male infertility. Acta Eur Fertil  1982;13:133-67. 
9. Tanimura J. Studies on arginine in human semen. Part II. The effects of medication with L-arginine-HCl on male infertility.  Bull Osaka Med School 1967;13:84-9. 
10. Schacter A, Goldman JA, Zukerman Z. Treatment of oligospermia with the amino acid arginine. J Urol 1973;110:311-13. 
11. Schacter A et al. Treatment of oligospermia with the amino acid arginine. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 1973;11:206-9. 
12. Mroueh A. Effect of arginine on oligospermia. Fertil Steril 1970:21:217-9. 
13. Pryor JP, Blandy JP, Evans P, Chaput De Saintonge DM, Usherwood M. Controlled clinical trial of arginine for infertile men with oligozoospermia. Brit J Urol 1978;50:47-50. 
14. Tanimura J. Studies on arginine in human semen. Part III. The influences of several drugs on male infertility. Bull Osaka Med School 1967;13:90-100. 
15. Thiessen DD et al. Vitamin E and sex behavior in mice. Nutr Metabol 1975;18:116-9. 
16. Bayer R. Treatment of infertility with vitamin E. Int J Fertil 1960;5:70-8. 
17. Sandler B, Faragher B. Treatment of oligospermia with vitamin B12. Infertil 1984;7:133-8. 
18. Kumamoto Y, Maruta H, Ishigami J, et al. Clinical efficacy of mecobalamin in treatment of oligozoospermia. Acta Urol Jpn 1988;34:1109-32. 
19. Costa M, Canale D, Filicori M, et al. L-carnitine in idiopathic asthenozoospermia: a multicenter study. Andrologia 1994;26:155-9. 
20. Vitali G, Parente R, Melotti C. Carnitine supplementation in human idiopathic asthenospermia: clinical results. Drugs Exptl Clin Res 1995;21:157-9. 
21. Piacentino R, Malara D, Zaccheo F, et al. Preliminary study of the use of s. adenosyl methionine in the management of male sterility. Minerva Ginecologica 1991;43:191-93 [in Italian]. 
22. Finley EB, Cerklewski FL. Influence of ascorbic acid supplementation on copper status in young adult men. Am J Clin Nutr 1983;37:553-56. 
23. Larsson O. Effects of isoprenoids on growth of normal human mammary epithelial cells and breast cancer cells in vitro.   Anticancer Res 1994;114:123-28. 
24. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Folkers K. Partial and complete regression of breast cancer in patients in relation to dosage of coenzyme Q10. Biochem Biophys Res Comm 1994;199:1504-48. 
25. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Yamamoto T, Folkers K. Progress on therapy of breast cancer with vitamin Q10 and the regression of metastases. Biochem Biophys Res Comm 1995;212:172-77. 
26. Judy WV. Nutritional intervention in cancer prevention and treatment. American College for Advancement in Medicine Spring Conference, Ft. Lauderdale, FL. May 3, 1998. 
27. Sohn M, Sikora R. Ginkgo biloba extract in the therapy of erectile dysfunction. J Sec Educ Ther 1991;17:53-61. 

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The soul is healed by being with children. 
-- Fyodor Dostoyevski 
 
 

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