Varicocele Herbs

Varicocele is a testicular problem affecting men, ages 15 to 25. While 85 percent of cases develop in the left testicle, the right, or both testicles may also be affected, as a mass of enlarged veins in the spermatic cord. The spermatic cord consists of blood and lymphatic vessels and nerves, also known as the vas defrens, and is responsible for transporting sperm from the body. When the vas defrens does not function correctly, this leads to the swelling of the veins above and behind the testicles.

Basics

• Some men do not experience symptoms of vericocele and are only diagnosed through routine physical exams, while others experience aching and feelings of heaviness in the testicles or discomfort and pain in the genital region. Other symptoms include testicular shrinkage or visibly enlarged veins. Because vericocele is a circulation problem, the temperature of the testicles rises due to increased blood, leading to infertility problems. While vericocele can be treated with surgery and nutritional adjustments, herbal therapy is another option. Herbal remedies do not have side effects, especially when purchasing high quality herbs. Consult your physician or herbalist before beginning any herbal treatments.

Mukkuti and Psyllium

• Mukkuti and psyllium are two herbs used in the treatment of varicocele. Both herbs are used as month-long treatments for reducing the swelling of the veins. Mukkuti has proven effective when adding 20 leaves of the herb to 300ml of boiling water for 40 minutes. Strain and drink two times a day for one month. On the other hand, psyllium seed husk fiber is an effective herbal treatment that is added to your food. Add 1 tsp. of psyllium seed husk fiber to your daily meals for one month.

Pulsatilla

• Also known as the pasque flower, pulsatilla is an herb found in prairies and meadows. It is effective for reducing the swelling of the scrotum that occurs in varicocele. Pulsatilla needs to be taken with the direction of your herbalist or physician as it can be quite toxic if you take too much. It is typically used in very small quantities and diluted with water or essential oils. Pulsatilla is added to foods and liquids, but can also be applied locally. This herbal treatment is utilized for approximately seven to 10 days.

Other Herbs

• Other herbs used to combat varicocele include horse chestnut, also known as Aesculus hippocast; butcher's broom, or Ruscus aculeatus; as well as bilberry, also known as Vaccinium myrtillus. These herbs are taken one to three times a day to help tone, strengthen and improve the function of testicular veins affected by vericocele.