At the Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture, we use herbs in their whole form. Rather than being synthetically derived or created, whole herbs maintain the integrity of the plant from which they came. We have worked for over 10 years developing our formulas using classical references that are over 2500 years old. Our acupuncturists compound all of our custom formulas in our own personal herbal pharmacy to ensure that we know exactly the dose and quality of the products that we recommend. The formulas recommended to you will be part of a comprehensive, customized treatment program.

Are herbs safe to take during an IVF/IUI cycle?

Most RE’s will request that you do not take herbs during your IVF/IUI cycle. They have expressed concern about the hormonal effects of the herbs. The herbs that we use at the Texas Center for Reproductive Acupuncture do not contain phytoestrogens or progestins. That would be a very western approach to use herbs that contain homones to improve hormone levels. Remember, we are trying to treat the cause of the problem, so the herbs we are using are designed to maximize your ability to produce your own hormones.

How do I take my herbs?

You will receive a vial of liquid called a tincture from the acupuncturist. We have taken the formula and processed it for over a month to produce a highly concentrated version of a tea. Your acupuncturist will prescribe a dose for you to take. A common does might be 2 dropperfuls 3 times per day. On an empty stomach, put 2 dropperfuls directly into your mouth. If the taste is unpalatable, you can drink some water or dissolve your herbs in a small glass of water. Our herbs should not produce any negative side effects. They have been specifically designed to meet your particular health needs. If you experience any side effects whatsoever other than something positive, you should discontinue your herbs until you can speak with you acupuncturist so that he/she can adjust your herbs.

Will the herbs interfere with my medication?

The herbs work by influencing systems as a whole, not by targeting an organ through a specific mechanism of action, the way pharmaceutical do. Additionally, most herb prescriptions consist of four to twelve herbs, making it unlikely that any one herb has the potential to interfere with medication. However, please do not adjust your medication without checking with your prescribing physician, even if you feel the herbs help.

Did the herbs cause that?

There are many factors that can cause the appearance of a symptom. A one-time dose of herbs is unlikely to be the cause. Usually, if the herbs are causing a symptom they will appear within the first few hours of taking the herbs and will go away within 8 hours of taking the herbs.