Andropause natural treatment: 26 home and herbal remedies for male menopause

The term andropause is used to describe men with low-T or low testosterone. Andropause is often called the male equivalent to menopause, as it is characterized by a number of uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, erectile dysfunction, low libido, irritability, muscle loss, and fatigue.

Testosterone levels in men can gradually decrease across their lifespan. Previous studies have found that nearly 40 percent of men over the age of 45 are affected by low testosterone levels in some way. A decline in testosterone can begin as early as the late 20s in men and continue to recede. Men often don’t begin to experience symptoms of andropause until middle age.

Andropause natural treatment

Speaking to your doctor about your low-T symptoms will help you identify if it’s due to natural causes or not. Various tests may be ordered to make an accurate diagnosis of your particular condition. While hormone replacement therapy may relieve the symptoms of andropause, it also exposes men to several risks such as prostate cancer development, liver problems, and poor testicular function.

However, there are several natural remedies that can provide significant relief for men. They are as follows:

• Diet: Changing your daily food choices to reflect a more healthy lifestyle can have a significant impact on andropause symptoms. Your doctor may provide you with a customized plan to make your decision-making process a bit easier. This health plan typically focuses on losing weight, as excess fat is known to create increased amounts of estrogen in the body—further throwing off your testosterone balance
• Eat more fruits and vegetables: A rich source of antioxidants, polyphenols, minerals, and vitamins. Fruits are veggies are essential to any healthy diet.
• Choose healthy fats: Not all fat is bad for you. In fact, your body needs a certain amount every day. Choosing the best fats for your body is key. Omega-3 fatty acids are great for supporting a healthy heart and good blood circulation.
• Select plant protein over animal protein: Getting enough protein in the diet is essential for maintaining muscle strength and lean body mass. Good sources of plant protein include beans, legumes, and select grains.
• Consume green tea: This beverage contains substances called catechins that have potent antioxidant properties. Replacing sugary drinks with green tea can assist in preventing illness and make you feel healthy.
• Avoid foods and additives that are harmful to health: In this fast-paced world, it can be east to fall into the trap of eating unhealthy foods. Many of them can be harmful to your health in the long run and should be avoided as much as possible. These typically include highly processed food and foods that have high sugar content.
• Quantity and quality of your sleep: Getting your daily recommended amount of sleep is vital for overall health. A lack of sleep can interfere with hormone production as well. Your body will thank you if you make getting sleep a priority.
• Exercise: Regular exercise increases the release of endorphins—a neurotransmitter that gives you that euphoric feeling. This chemical can even help combat depression and mood swings that commonly occur in cases of andropause. Getting regular exercise can also help build and tone muscle to minimize their loss.
• Love your liver: The liver is a multifunctional organ, and hormone production is one of its jobs. Keeping your liver healthy will help keep your body running and performing to the best of its ability. It is also a good idea to limit the amount of alcohol you drink, as it is one of the leading causes of liver dysfunction.
• Manage stress: The symptoms of andropause can lead to increased amounts of stress. Learning to manage your stress in a healthy way can help control and manage your andropause symptoms.
• Maintain hormone balance: This will require the aid of your doctor, as you need to know where your hormone levels stand. This is the best way to identify if current treatments are working or not.
• Maintain a healthy sex life: While this may be difficult for those who are experiencing a low libido, making an effort to maintain a healthy sex life with your partner can alleviate the stress and anxiety that may accompany typical andropause changes.
• Avoid exposure to toxins: This harmful chemical can alter or change biological processes in the body leading to overall negative effects on your health and sex life.

Herbal remedies for andropause

• Tribulus Terrestris: A herb used for centuries to help stimulate libido and restore normal testosterone levels. It contains an active compound called protodioscin that is considered a precursor to testosterone.
• Suma: Originating from the suma ground vine, this herb is widely used as a tonic to help improve libido and sexual desire. Suma contains a bioactive compound called Ecdysterone that helps promote normal testosterone levels in men, stimulating sexual performance.
• Ashwagandha: Also known as “Indian ginseng,” this herb has been used for over 3,000 years in alleviating various sexual issues. Some research has been done on this herb, suggesting that it may promote fertility in men, especially when combined with Tribulus Terrestris.
• Maca: Considered a popular aphrodisiac and sexual endurance enhancer, this herb has been consistently proven to produce a significant erectile response in men in research studies. Maca is also known for improving sperm quality
• Avena sativa: Known for benefitting testosterone production, energy enhancement, endurance, and prostate health. This herb is found to stimulate the hormone responsible for activating the production of testosterone; luteinizing hormone.
• Tongkat Ali: Considered to hold powerful aphrodisiac properties, this herb has been shown to stimulate libido, improve semen quality, and promote muscle growth. Many of these effects are attributed to positive effects on testosterone levels.
• Catuaba: This herb is known for promoting strong and longer lasting erections. It achieves this by increasing blood flow to the penis. Catuaba may also increase the brain’s sensitivity to dopamine, a powerful neurotransmitter involved with pleasure feelings during sex.
• Muira puama: Thought to promote blood flow and increase the lowlihood of sustaining normal erections.
• Gingko Biloba: Known for boosting blood to the brain, this herb can help increase dopamine production leading to increased activity in the pleasure centers of the brain.
• Yohimbe: This herb is known for dilating blood vessels helping to increase blood flow to the penis help those with erectile dysfunction
• Valerian root: Useful for decreasing the symptoms of anxiety and psychological stress, which are two prevalent symptoms of andropause.
• Horny goat weed: A herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, it is well known for combating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction and low libido. It can also increase dopamine levels in the brain, helping to stimulate the various pleasure centers.
• Fennel: This herb has a multitude of various health benefits. Fennel is known for promoting brain function, reducing blood pressure, and even boosting the immune system.

It is a good idea to speak to your doctor about your andropause symptoms before adding herbal remedies that can alter your body’s physiological makeup. Herbal medication may interact with prescribed medication.

Related: Is male menopause real? Low testosterone level signs and treatment tips