Ginseng is a classic among herbs for fertility. It is believed to increase sperm count and mobility. Is an aphrodisiac and energizer for both men and women. There are several types of ginseng, though, and they differ in some ways. Siberian ginseng is not really a type of ginseng and is increasingly being called eleuthero. Chinese herbalists use this herb to strengthen the "qi" or vital energy of the body.

However it is also recommended to increase fertility. It supports the function of the uterus, making it a good herb for female fertility. For increasing the sperm count in men, Siberian ginseng should be alternated with Asian or Panax ginseng. Some studies suggest Siberian ginseng helps raise testosterone to counteract impotence.

In women, Siberian ginseng should be discontinued should she become pregnant. People with hypertension should not use Siberian ginseng. It can cause nervousness and insomnia in high doses.

Panax ginseng is the Asian ginseng that is sometimes called "man root" because it is shaped like a human form. Centuries ago Asian emporers were the only ones allowed to use this herb because it was so treasured. It is also sometimes called Korean or Chinese ginseng. It is an energizer and tonic for the whole body and particularly for the reproductive organs.

Dong quai, or angelica, is a Chinese herb that is sometimes called the woman's ginseng. It is an all around energizer, and good for every female problem, except it should not be used in cases of profuse menses. It is sometimes used to regulate periods when birth control pills are discontinued.

Maca root is a all around rejuvenator from the mountains of South America. It's reported to increase libido and fertility in both men and women. It is rich in vitamins and is what is known as an adaptogenic herb.

This is an herb that adapts itself to the needs in the body, providing help for every part. It increases female fertility by assisting the body's production of Luteneinizing Hormone or LH. Ovulation is caused by LH and is of course needed for fertility.

In males, it increases the sperm count. It is not known to have any harmful side effects, so infertile couples can use it without fear of overdosing. To be on the safe side, however, you should check with an herbalist before mega-dosing very much.

A blend of herbs for fertility will naturally come in women's formulas and men's formulas. A women's blend will probably contain chastetree, which is also called vitex agnus castus, or chaste tree berry.

This herb balances the hormones and regulates the menses. It's thought to even be effective in cases of polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that is characterized by abnormal hair growth as well as infertility.

Other herbs that might be included are red clover, ginkgo, and Siberian ginseng. Red clover contains phytoestrogens that mimic female hormones.

Damiana is often suggested as one of the best herbs for fertility. This herb is a shrub that grows in Mexico. It is a laxative, though and can cause loose stools. Other than that, it is a very safe herb. It has been used as an aphrodisiac in both men and women for many years. It is helpful in cases where anxiety reduces sexual function.

False unicorn root is a traditional medicine that the native Americans used for female reproductive problems. It's thought to be effective in promoting female fertility and in preventing miscarriages. It is also useful for men's systems as well.

Ho shou wu is a Chinese fertility herb with a very interesting legend associated with its use. According to the legend, a man named Ho was childless.

He woke one morning and noticed a strange plant with intertwined vining branches. He took this as a sign that it was a divine medicine for him. He dried the roots and began to take them as medicine.

Within two years he had married a widow and fathered a son. In addition, his hair turned black again and he lived to be 130. Or so the story goes. Anyway, the herb was named after him. It literally means "Ho's head black." Since that time, the herb has been used to increase fertility.