African Plants That Cause Infertility

African herbs have been used to cure bodily ailments and conditions for centuries. They are also one of the earliest contraceptives. Although doctors do not recommend natural remedies for contraceptive use in the modern world, these herbs were used by native populations to prevent pregnancy and could either be taken as infusions or used in cooking.

Pennyroyal (Mentha Pulegium)

• Pennyroyal is a plant that grows in warm climates around the world. Native to the Mediterranean, it has purple flowers and a distinctive smell. Although it is a weed in many countries, it is rare in Britain and is therefore protected. One teaspoon of Pennyroyal infusion can be taken with a cup of water three times a day. However, this herb should not be taken for more than six consecutive days. According to the Orgone Biophysical Research Lab, you should never use extracted Pennyroyal oil as this is toxic and could cause death.

Wild Cotton (Gossypium herbaceum)

• Cotton has been used as a natural contraceptive since the 1970s. Although the link between the herb and male infertility was not recognized before this time, scientists discovered a link between the use of cottonseed oil in cooking and decreased male fertility in China. The herb lowers the male's sperm count or causes his sperm to become immobile, sometimes for weeks after the last dose of the herb is taken.

Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)

• A tropical plant, Bitter Melon can be found growing throughout Africa, Asia, South America and the Caribbean. In these areas, natives have used the juice from the plant's fruit to treat a range of ailments and health conditions, including diabetes and high cholesterol. The plant can also be used as an abortive measure for contraception. One leaf of the Bitter Melon can also be infused in water to make a tea.

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)

• Mugwort is considered a weed in North America, but it can also be found growing in Europe and Africa. It can be used as a contraceptive and anti-spasmodic supplement. The whole plant is broken into pieces and dried before it is infused in water. However, it is important not to ingest too much of this plant as it can cause kidney problems. The Orgone Biophysical Research Lab recommends infusing one teaspoon of dried mugwort in a cup of water and taking three cups a day for no more than six days.