A systematic review on the effectiveness of herbal interventions for the treatment of male infertility

Background: Male infertility is an emerging health issue in the world today. Surgical interventions for the treatment of male infertility are available but are quite expensive. Herbal interventions pose a popular alternative for the treatment of infertility. However, much has to be learned regarding...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Published in:Frontiers in Physiology
Main Author: Shahid M.N.; Afzal H.S.; Farooq B.; Yousaf M.R.; Ijaz M.R.; Shafqat T.A.; Khan T.M.; Neoh C.F.; Lean Q.Y.; Bukhsh A.; Karuppannan M.
Format: Review
Language:English
Published: Frontiers Media S.A. 2022
Online Access:https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85142192617&doi=10.3389%2ffphys.2022.930676&partnerID=40&md5=f1a2c1ff68f66688c2b993dad8e3bce7
Description
Summary:Background: Male infertility is an emerging health issue in the world today. Surgical interventions for the treatment of male infertility are available but are quite expensive. Herbal interventions pose a popular alternative for the treatment of infertility. However, much has to be learned regarding their safety and efficacy. Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of herbal interventions in male infertility and also assess the possibility of these interventions as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the future. Method: From inception until 16 December 2021, all articles emphasizing the efficacy of herbal interventions in the treatment of male infertility are included in this review. Seven databases are searched. The literature obtained is screened and extracted. Semen parameters, hormonal concentration, and conception are the outcomes of interest. Results: A total of 19 articles were included in this review. Herbal interventions might improve semen parameters in males with infertility. Among all the interventions, Hochu-ekki-to and W. somnifera have shown the most promising results and should be studied further in a larger sample size. Conclusion: This systematic review has demonstrated the efficacy of herbal interventions, especially Hochu-ekki-to and W. somnifera, in treating male infertility. Copyright © 2022 Shahid, Afzal, Farooq, Yousaf, Ijaz, Shafqat, Khan, Neoh, Lean, Bukhsh and Karuppannan.
ISSN:1664042X
DOI:10.3389/fphys.2022.930676