As we mentioned in previous articles, infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse. It affects more than 5 million couples in the US alone and many times more worldwide. Due to ignorance of the treatments, only 10% seek help from specialist professionals. We have spent most of the time in this series discussing conventional and Chinese medicine for fertility treatment. I think it is the best time to change the subject talking about how to treat female infertility with the Chinese herb bupleurum.

I. Definition
Bupleurum is also known as Bei Chai Hu. They are a very large genus of plants and belong to the family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae). It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat infections, fevers, and liver problems.

II. How bupleurum affects female fertility
1. Liver qi stagnation
The herb is said to have a liver tonic effect that helps release liver qi stagnation as a result of the accumulation of toxins in the body, leading to abnormalities of the liver in regulating the spleen’s function in the production of qi. insulin. This results in a hormonal imbalance and an irregular menstrual cycle. In addition, a sluggish liver reduces its role in essential fatty acid metabolism, leading to excessive production of certain hormones from the prostaglandin family. This results in menstrual cramps and pain, and an overactive uterus that affects the chances of fertility.

2. Kidney
It not only helps improve kidney function in urine removal, but also restores its function in steroid growth hormone regulation, leading to hormonal balance and lowering the risk of irregular menstrual cycle.

3. Kidney yin deficiency
It is considered a cool to cold herb, so it helps release abundant yang qi that obstructs the normal process of egg production and increases the risk of irregular menstrual cycle.

4. Immune system
Bupleurum is also a tonic for immune function with the cold to cold side. In addition to helping the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses, it also helps the immune system recognize that sperm are part of the body’s tissue and not attack them. It works well if the infection is caused by abnormal immune function in yin qi deficiency.

5. Function of the spleen
It also has an effect on the function of the spleen in the production of insulin which helps reduce the risk of insulin fluctuation, which leads to the production of certain hormones (such as serotonin) and disrupts the production of hormones (progesterone), which increases the chances of fertility.

6. Blood flow
Bupleurum is said to help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, so not only does it help improve heart function, but it also increases blood flow to the reproductive organs, reducing the risk of infertility.

third side effects
May cause
1. Nausea
3. Reflux
4. Increases bowel movement
Yes over dose.