3 of the Best Herbs and Supplements If You’re Trying to Conceive

1. N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)

This nutritional supplement is a precursor to glutathione, the most powerful antioxidant in the body. We recommend it as an adjunct to conventional treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common cause of infertility. Studies find it softens cervical mucus, making it easier for the sperm to get to the egg and improves insulin sensitivity, which helps you get pregnant. One study of 150 infertile women with PCOS found those receiving the drug clomiphene plus NAC were more likely to ovulate and to get pregnant than women receiving only the drug. Take 1,200 milligrams daily in 2 divided doses.

2. Chaste tree berry (Vitex agnus-castus)

If you’re looking for herbs to help with fertility, this is a good natural remedy to start with. This herb normalizes the menstrual cycle and hormone levels, which may help restore fertility. Good brands are Agnucaston and Cyclodynon. Take for 3 full cycles if your cycles are irregular. Don’t take if you’re also taking the prescription fertility drug Clomid (clomiphene). Ask your doctor about other possible interactions between herbs and medications you are taking.

3. L-arginine

This is a good nutritional supplement to use in conjunction with conventional medical treatment for infertility. An Italian study found that women taking the supplement had more eggs collected and more embryos transferred back into their uterus while undergoing ovarian stimulation than those taking a placebo, with 3 pregnancies in the L-arginine group compared to none in the placebo group. Supplements may be more powerful than you think!

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9 Natural Ways to Boost Your Fertility
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5 Things Supplements Won’t Do