Natural Testosterone Treatment

Many men suffer from decreased levels of testosterone, a hormone that governs important functions including sexual health and physical endurance. Several medicinal herbs can help to support healthy testosterone production; the most popular options are tongkat ali, tribulus terrestris and saw palmetto.

Types

• Tribulus terrestris (often shortened to tribulus) dominates the supplement industry as a subtle, natural testosterone booster. Strong evidence supports the use of saw palmetto to regulate the prostate and endocrine systems, and tongkat ali boosts sexual function and possibly athletic performance.

Evidence

• Several animal tests have investigated tongkat ali's effects on testosterone production, with unanimously encouraging results. The medical journal Phytomedicine, which pioneered research of this herb, published several rodent studies that demonstrated androgenic, anabolic and aphrodisiac effects.

Considerations

• Despite tribulus' popularity as an herbal testosterone booster, some critics believe that it is ineffective in this capacity. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology reported that while strong evidence supports the use of tribulus as an aphrodisiac, it appears to have little effect on testosterone production in young men.

Effects

• Herbal testosterone boosters work in different capacities to improve endocrine health. Drugs.com reports that saw palmetto inhibits the production of a key enzyme involved in testosterone depletion. The exact actions of tribulus and tongkat ali are not fully understood.

Warning

• Tongkat ali, saw palmetto and tribulus are well-tolerated with no significant side effects or drug interactions. However, each of these products may cause unanticipated problems for people with medical conditions and those taking medication. Discuss all herbal supplements with a qualified practitioner before use.