In the world of health, several issues affect men disproportionately or even exclusively. Men are two to five times more likely to develop heart disease, with young men being much more susceptible to the condition than young women. In addition, men are about two times more likely than women to suffer from diabetes or prediabetes, especially when testosterone levels are low. Added to that are the symptoms associated with male aging, from hair loss to decreased stamina and prostate enlargement. Fortunately, for a man looking to improve his health naturally, there is a large variety of herbs, mushrooms, and formulas with just the nutrients he needs to support testosterone levels, prostate care, the cardiovascular system, metabolism, and more. Read on to learn about some of our favorite herbal solutions for men's health care.

Herbs & Mushrooms For Men's Health

Saw Palmetto Berry

The berry of the saw palmetto plant is among the most powerful of tools for men's overall health. One of the most recognized benefits is saw palmetto berry's ability to support the prostate and prevent and control conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or prostate enlargement. This is most likely due to its ability to reduce inflammation as well as block the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is responsible for many of the symptoms of male aging, such as prostate growth and hair loss. Many users of saw palmetto berry have reported reduction of hair loss and even promotion of hair regrowth, and lower levels of DHT are also known to help restore testosterone levels, leading to increased energy, libido, and better mood. This advantageous berry can be bought in bulk or taken in capsules.

Nettle Root

Like saw palmetto berry, nettle root is often used as a supplement for improving the health of the prostate. Studies have suggested that it is capable of inhibiting enzymes associated with growth of the prostate. In addition, the herb is naturally anti-inflammatory, which can assist in reducing prostate size, and also help with other age-related ailments such as joint pain.

Nettle root is also thought to block DHT from binding with receptors in the body, lessening its effects. This leads to healthier testosterone levels and the promotion of hair growth, vitality, and even muscle maintenance.

Finally, nettle root has been shown to have some effect on blood sugar levels. Its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels make it a great supplement to help prevent issues such as diabetes and prediabetes.

Mesima

Mesima, a functional mushroom native to South America, Africa, and Asia, is currently undergoing many studies due to its potential effect on prostate health, particularly in preventing and assisting in treatment of prostate and lung cancer. Mesima is known as a powerful immune system booster, which can help protect against disease and illness.

Compounds present in mesima are shown to help slow growth of tumors by inhibiting abnormal cell replication, which can prevent tumors and growth of the prostate. Results of some studies suggest that mesima may even have the ability to help kill certain cancer cells.

Mesima is also known for its ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body, leading to improvement in cardiovascular and joint health, as well as helping to prevent prostate growth. In addition, its high antioxidant content helps prevent oxidative stress in the body, which may lead to prevention of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

Ginseng

One of the most well-known effects of ginseng is its ability to support brain function. Its remarkable ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress help to boost cognitive performance as well as memory. In addition, ginseng can help the body to balance cortisol levels, lessening stress and leading to improved mood and overall health.

It is also a wonderful herb for men who are trying to stay active, helping boost physical and muscular performance in a few ways. Ginseng, especially Asian ginseng, has been used for centuries to boost stamina, and recent studies suggest this effect stems from ginseng's ability to improve the function of mitochondria, the organelle responsible for producing energy for our body's cells. In addition, this powerful root has demonstrated its ability to increase the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes the blood vessels and allows for more oxygen to be delivered to the body's muscles. This allows the muscles to work harder and longer before feeling fatigued.

Ginseng has been shown in some studies to reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels, making it a powerful tool for cardiovascular health. In addition, American ginseng in particular can help regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity, making it a great tool for preventing or managing diabetes or blood sugar imbalance.

Fo-Ti (He Shou Wu)

Fo-ti, also known as He Shou Wu, is a root native to east Asia that has long been revered in traditional Chinese medicine for its male anti-aging effects. The herb is rich in benefits, including hair loss prevention and regrowth, cognitive support, energy and libido support, cardiovascular support, and kidney and liver detoxing.

He Shou Wu can stimulate hair follicles and increase blood flow to the scalp, promoting hair regrowth and preventing future hair loss. Due to its ability to enhance the production of melanin, fo-ti is even thought to help slow or reduce graying of hair associated with age.

This herb is often used to detoxify and cleanse the liver and kidneys, leading to better overall health and increased energy and vitality. Fo-ti is also thought to decrease fatigue and may even help boost libido. In addition, the herb's rich antioxidant content is associated with anti-aging properties, with many those who use He Shou Wu reporting a more youthful appearance, improved memory, and increased levels of energy. Fo-ti's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are also thought to help improve insulin sensitivity and boost metabolism. 

Another benefit of fo-ti's ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress is the positive effect this has on heart health. In addition, the herb contains compounds that may help to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood flow.

Ashwagandha

Known as one of the best herbs for men in Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha root is thought to reduce stress, boost energy, enhance physical performance, raise testosterone levels, and support cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Studies have shown that ashwagandha is effective in balancing hormones and increasing male testosterone levels, leading to several benefits, including improved energy and libido. Ashwagandha is often used among athletes to enhance stamina and muscle growth, with studies supporting its ability to increase muscle mass and decrease fat when combined with a training routine. Its antioxidant properties may also help quicken muscle recovery after physical activity.

Ashwagandha is becoming increasingly well-known as an adaptogenic herb due to its ability to regulate cortisol levels, and in turn improve mood, energy, sleep, and overall health. It also supports the function of mitochondria, further benefiting energy levels.

Ashwagandha is also associated with improved cognitive function, with many reporting reduced mental fog. This is likely due to the herb's antioxidant content, which protects the brain from oxidative stress. This reduction in oxidative stress in the body leads to all kinds of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health. Anti-inflammatory properties further reduce stress on the heart by helping to reduce cholesterol levels.

Finally, ashwagandha can contribute to metabolic health by improving insulin resistance and regulating blood sugar levels, reducing blood sugar spikes and preventing common conditions like diabetes. 

Ashwagandha root can be taken as a tea, an alcohol or glycerin extract, or in capsules.

Formulas for Men's Health

Dr. Christopher's Prostate Plus

This blend of herbs formulated by Dr. John Christopher supports the prostate gland, containing herbs such as saw palmetto berry, mullein leaf, and ginkgo biloba.

Dr. Christopher's Male Urinary Tract

Recommended especially for men over 50, this formula provides nutritional support for both the prostate and the entire urinary system. This formula works well on its own, but can be combined with the Prostate Plus formula for a synergistic effect.

Dr. Christopher's Male Tonic

Featuring herbs such as eleuthero, saw palmetto berry, bee pollen, hawthorn berry, and more, this formula was created as a comprehensive support for men's health and wellness. This formula is known for its ability to increase vitality, balance hormones, and support the male reproductive system.

ProstateEssence

This supplement features a blend of herbs, vitamins, and minerals to support the prostate and male urinary system. In addition, the product contains ingredients that can support lean muscle mass and increase libido. 

Tongkat Ali with Tribulus Terrestris Extra Strength

This supplement contains extra-strength levels of tongkat ali and tribulus, both of which have been shown to increase testosterone levels, leading to effects such as better athletic performance and boosted libido.

Tongkat Ali Men's Performance Complex

This performance-boosting formula combines the energizing benefits of ashwagandha, eleuthero, damiana, nettle root, and kanna with tongkat ali and tribulus.

Herb Pharm® Male Vitality

Formulated to boost male energy and libido, this formula contains stamina-enhancing herbs such as ginseng, sarsaparilla, and maca root.

Herb Pharm® Prostate Health

Herbs Pharm's Prostate Health contains herbs effective in improving health of the prostate as well as overall men's health. The formula features ingredients such as saw palmetto berry and nettle root, as well as additional urinary support from pipissewa.

NuLife Herbs® Herbal Niagra

This energizing, testosterone-boosting formula contains all the benefits of maca root, ashwagandha, saw palmetto, fenugreek, tribulus, muira puama, damiana, sarsaparilla, and more. Herbal Niagra is formulated by a Master Herbalist and is well loved for its ability to support natural energy levels and libido.

Winnie Schwinn's Male Balance

This formula, containing a wide variety of herbs for men's health, including saw palmetto, nettle root, ashwagandha, fo-ti, tribulus, muira puama, and ginseng, is available on a consultation basis. To inquire about ordering Male Balance, feel free to reach out to our herbalist for a free 15-minute consultation by calling 801-489-4500 between the hours of 11am-1pm Mountain Time, Monday-Thursday.

Recommended Resource: The Male Herbal by James Green

The Male Herbal remains one of the top recommended herbal guides for men's health issues, featuring natural strategies for maintaining men's physical and emotional health, herbal solutions for ailments specific to men and boys, and recipes for herbal tinctures, salves, and tonics. Using this book, men can create a customized health plan to suit them and their needs.

Conclusion

While there are a wide variety of effective herbal supplements for improving men's health, it is always important to go back to the basics, evaluating diet and lifestyle to make sure you are doing everything you can to support your cardiovascular health, blood sugar levels, and stamina. A combination of a healthy diet, an active lifestyle, and herbal supplementation if needed are excellent ways to keep men on track for optimal health now and as they age.