Here are some specific examples of how certain Chinese herbs work from a western viewpoint. (Most of the information has been obtained from studies on lab rabbits, mice and rats.)

Lu Rong (deer antler):
Increases the level of testosterone within the blood plasma of males and can increase the size and weight of the testicles, prostate gland, seminal vesicle, levator ani and bulbospongiosus muscle. In females it can encourage the uterus to increase in weight and size. It can cause the uterus to enlarge and fill with blood and accelerate ovulation.

Ba Ji Tian (Morinda, medicinal Indian mulberry root):
Has a stimulating effect on the pituitary gland, ovaries and uterus. It can also enhance the ovaries chorionic gonadotropic hormone / luteinizing hormone receptor cell functionality.

Rou Cong Rong (desert-living cistanche):
It functions to activate adrenaline-releasing cortical steriods and can enhance the luteotrophic function on the hypothalamus, pituitary and ovaries. It also increases the activities of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in the hypothalamus.

Xian Mao (curculigo):
Can significantly increase the weight and size of the ovaries and uterus. It enables chorionic gonadotropic hormone and luteotrophic hormone receptors to clearly increase their binding capacity. In males it increases the size of the seminal vesicle and possessed androgenic capabilities.

Tu Si Zi (cuscuta, dodder seed):
It can increase white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin and dismutase vitality. It accelerates the keratinization of the epidermis of the vagina and increases the weight of the uterus. This substance can elevate the functioning of hypothalamic, pituitary and ovarian hormones. In males it increases sperm motility and membrane function, thus having benefit in the treatment of male infertility and enhancing artificial insemination efficacy.

This is just a snapshot of how herbs function from a western viewpoint. There are many more herbs that are used in the treatment of infertility. The herbs are used in combination and have a synergistic effect. Diagnosis is made using a model based on traditional Chinese medicine. A formula is then written to fit that patients individual presenting pattern.

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