A List of Herbs That Are Proven to Safely Increase Testosterone Levels

By Iliriana Bisha Tagani MD | Published on March 27, 2022
Reviewed By Gilmore Health | On: January 4, 2024

It is not open to question that testosterone is one of the most important hormones in the body, particularly in men. Being deficient in this hormone can negatively impact sexual functions, among others. When it comes to dealing with low testosterone levels, most individuals use steroid drugs. These drugs do produce results, but they are not without nasty side effects. We present some proven natural supplements that can help boost testosterone levels with minimal side effects if any at all.

Pine bark extract

This is obtained from maritime pine bark which has been shown to contain the natural compounds proanthocyanidins. Also known as Pinus pinaster, the tree from which this extract is obtained grows mostly in the western Mediterranean, in countries such as Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. It has been found in some clinical studies that a combination of pine bark extract and L-arginine aspartate is helpful to men suffering from mild to moderate cases of erectile dysfunction. It also helps to boost the level of testosterone in the blood. Pine bark extract improves blood flow and has been utilized for cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health management. Recommended doses are between 200 mg and 300 mg.

Malaysian ginseng

Known formally as Eurycoma longifolia, Malaysian ginseng is native to Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia and Indonesia. The plant, which also goes by the name Tongkat ali, has been used for several centuries as an antimicrobial, anti-malarial, anti-fever, and anti-diabetic agent. Its extracts have also been used as an aphrodisiac for a very long time in areas where it is native. Research shows that Malaysian ginseng helps to promote the production of androgen hormones, of which testosterone is one. It can be useful in dealing with possible symptoms of low T, including osteoporosis. In addition, Eurycoma longifolia is a potent natural supplement for weight loss, performance enhancement, and high sexual drive.

Mucuna pruriens

There is no way we can leave out Mucuna pruriens given how it greatly helps to guard against the reduction in testosterone production. The hormone prolactin secreted in the body is harmful to the secretion of testosterone. High levels of prolactin can lead to all sorts of sexual issues. However, Mucuna pruriens helps to raise testosterone levels by boosting the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. This natural chemical, in turn, works on the pituitary gland to secrete prolactin inhibitory hormone (PIH), which helps to lower the amount of prolactin in the body. In one study, treatment of some men with 5 grams of the herb for a period of 90 days not only increased testosterone levels but also enhanced semen quality.

Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus Terrestris also known as puncturevine is a tropical plant that is grown in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and America. It has often been used in traditional folk medicine to boost testosterone levels. Some studies have also suggested the herb can be helpful in this regard, but there has not been a consensus on this among researchers. The leaves, fruits, or roots of the plant are used to make tea or as an ingredient in some over-the-counter medications or supplements. Doses should not exceed 250 mg three times a day to avoid unpleasant side effects.

Fenugreek

A common current in Mediterranean and Indian cuisine, fenugreek is one plant that you may find helpful if you are having a problem with low testosterone. The reason for this is that it contains certain active compounds. These compounds enhance the activity of some enzymes that help to raise testosterone levels. Fenugreek seeds can be ground and used as a spice, while the leaves make a potent herb as well.

Pine pollen

This natural supplement, which many do not yet know about in the West, has been described as a very helpful food. It is a “superfood” for those interested in boosting levels of androgenic hormones in their body. Pine pollen is said to contain actual testosterone. When used, it’s like taking in regular testosterone and it is seamlessly absorbed into the bloodstream. Pine pollen also boasts other useful nutrients, including omega fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Some of its varieties can raise testosterone levels by as high as 80 ng, as shown in research.

Horny Goat Weed

Also known as horny goat weed or epimedium, this herb has been used in Chinese folk medicine since time immemorial for dealing with sexual health issues. You may be wondering why it is also called the ‘horny’ goat weed. This was supposed because goats were observed to become more active sexually after consuming it. The active substance in the weed is a flavonoid known as icariin, which acts similarly as testosterone when ingested. Goat weed improves the levels of nitrous oxide in the body and enhances the flow of blood to sexual organs. The Chinese used it to treat impotence and to raise testosterone levels.

Blue Passionflower

This is an extract from blue passionflower, which is botanically referred to as Passiflora incarnate. Numerous subspecies of the flower can be found in different parts of the world, including the United States. Chrysin, a flavonoid that is also obtained from honey, has supposedly been used for a long time by some people to boost testosterone production. However, there is a question about the level of its absorption in the body. The extract is also said to contain anti-anxiety properties.

Forskolin

Forskolin is one of the most potent natural supplements for boosting testosterone levels, although not many people are aware of this. It is known more for its usefulness in burning body fat. Its presence in the body raises the amount of the chemical cAMP. This natural chemical increases testosterone production as well as the sensitivity of the body to the hormone. Forskolin is a cAMP activator and an androgen receptor activator. In a study, treatment of the Leydig cells, where testosterone is produced in the testes, with this Coleus forskolin root extract led to an increase in testosterone production by a whopping 200%! This is obviously a powerful testosterone booster.

Ashwagandha

Chances are that the name of this plant does not ring a bell to you. But Ashwagandha, which is also known as Withania somnifera, is popular in India. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as a treatment for sexual dysfunction and infertility. In one Indian study, it was observed that men taking supplements containing Ashwagandha experienced improvement in the quality of their semen. It also boosted the levels of testosterone and other reproductive hormones in men suffering from infertility. The plant is helpful in combating oxidative stress as well. Dried berries of Withania somnifera are often ground and made into tea. The berries and roots are also used in the production of certain supplements.

The above natural supplements are just a handful of the ones you may find useful in raising the level of testosterone in your bloodstream. Some of the others that may also be helpful in this regard include garlic, avocadoes, pumpkin seeds, DHEA, and kale. A good number of these are pre-packaged and available over the counter. However, you should consult your doctor before exploring any of the listed means of boosting testosterone levels in the body. Dietary supplements do not require FDA approval and, as such, may be ineffective and even unsafe.