As we mentioned in previous articles, infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse. It effects over 5 million couples alone in the U. S. and many times more in the world. Because of an unawareness of treatments, only 10% seek help from professional specialists. We have spent most of the time in this series discussing conventional Chinese medicine for treating infertility. I believe it is the best time to change the subject by discussing how to treat infertility with white willow (Salix Alba).
I. Definition
White willow is also known as Salix Alba in herbal medicine, native to Europe, and Western and Central Asia. It has been used in traditional medicine as a fertility enhancing herb.
II. How to treat infertility with white willow (Salix Alba)
1. Blood thinner
Blood thinners contain high levels of salicin which converts into salicylic acid which helps to increase blood flow to the reproductive organs as a result of thinning the blood. Therefore it reduces the risk of blood stagnation in the abdominal region, thus increasing the chance of fertility.
2. Kidney Yin deficiency
It is one of the cool to cold herbs according to traditional Chinese medicine and it is used to treat infertility caused by kidney yin deficiency as a result of overeating spicy foods, or working in hot environments.
3. Immune system
White willow also contains high levels of antioxidants which helps the immune system to guard our body against infection and inflammation.
4. Vitamin C
White willow contains high levels of vitamin C which not only helps to improve the immune system in fighting the formation of free radicals and foreign invasion, but it also increases the blood flow to the reproductive organs by strengthening the capillaries, resulting in lessening the risk of sexual libido.
5. Liver function
As a liver tonic herb, it increases the liver’s function in toxin elimination resulting in an increased effectiveness of the liver in regulating the levels of prostaglandins. Therefore this reduces the risk of menstrual pain and cramps.
III. Side effects
No major side effects as long as you do not overdose.
