Acupuncture and moxibustion increase testosterone levels to improve male fertility

The sex hormone testosterone is an important hormone for both men and women.

Partial testosterone deficiency of aging male (PADAM) is characterised by a deficiency in testosterone levels.

Both electroacupuncture and mild moxibustion can raise testosterone levels in aging men. Electric-acupuncture and moxibustionn treatment were given to aging men at acupuncture points Shenshu - BL23 and Guanyuan - CV4 for 8 weeks.

Both electric-acupuncture and mild moxibustion significantly increased total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (FT) with moxibustion displaying superiority. Luteal hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were significantly decreased.

Electro-acupuncture and moxibustion at Shenshu - BL23 and Guanyuan - CV4 acupuncture points appear to be effective treatments for reduced testosterone levels in aging men and can be used for long term. Moxibustion treatment was better than electro-acupuncture. This is probably because moxibustion increases heat, which is yang in nature as is testosterone.

Treatment for a testosterone deficiency

There are supplements which can increase levels of testosterone such as DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). However, people with a history of breast cancer should not take this supplement.

Reference

Ren et al. (2016) Effects and mechanisms of acupuncture and moxibustion on reproductive endocrine function in male rats with partial androgen deficiency. Acupunct Med, 34:136-143 doi:10.1136/acupmed-2014-010734.