Shukrajanana Gana: Herbs to Improve Semen and Sperm Count (2025)

Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, classifies herbs into various groups or “Ganas” based on their therapeutic actions. One such powerful and vital category is the Shukrajanana Gana – a group of herbs known to nourish and rejuvenate the reproductive tissue or Shukra Dhatu.According to classical Ayurvedic texts, certain herbs and formulations, categorized under the term Shukrajanana (literally meaning ‘sperm-generating’), are believed to enhance both the quality and quantity of reproductive cells.

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These substances typically possess aphrodisiac, rejuvenating, unctuous, energizing, and tonic properties, supporting overall reproductive health and vitality.” These herbs play a crucial role in promoting fertility, sexual vitality, hormonal balance, and overall reproductive health.

Shukra Dhatu: An Ayurvedic Perspective on Reproductive Health

In Ayurvedic physiology, the human body is made up of seven fundamental tissues (Sapta Dhatus), and Shukra Dhatu is the seventh and most refined of them all. It is responsible not just for reproduction, but also for vitality, immunity, creativity, and emotional well-being.

Shukra Dhatu encompasses the reproductive elements – sperm in men and ovum in women – and contributes to the formation of Ojas, the essence of health and longevity.

Healthy Shukra Dhatu reflects in vibrant skin, strong immunity, mental clarity, emotional sensitivity, and sexual vigor. On the contrary, its depletion leads to fatigue, low libido, infertility, hormonal imbalance, and diminished vitality.

What is Shukrajanana Gana?

Shukrajanana literally means “that which generates or enhances Shukra.” The herbs under Shukrajanana Gana are revered in Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita for their ability to enhance reproductive functions. These herbs are known to:

Key Herbs in Shukrajanana Gana

Here are some of the most potent and well-known herbs classified under Shukrajanana Gana:

1. Vriddharuha (Asparagus racemosus) – Root & Seed

Popularly known as Shatavari, this herb supports hormonal health and reproductive balance. It is cooling and soothing, often prescribed for sexual and reproductive weakness. Used for both male and female infertility due to its broad-spectrum rejuvenative effects. A key Rasayana that nourishes Shukra and also improves mental clarity and immunity. It is also a well-known galactagogue used postpartum.

Rasa: Sweet, bitter
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Galactagogue, aphrodisiac
Benefits: Improves libido, balances hormones, enhances fertility and semen quality.

2. Jatila (Nardostachys jatamansi) – Root

Jatila is a medhya (nootropic) herb used to calm the nervous system and reduce stress. It supports reproductive health by treating anxiety-induced infertility. Also used to enhance memory, mental focus, and hormonal balance. Its action on the nervous and reproductive systems makes it a dual-action fertility herb. Helps maintain healthy semen parameters under emotional or mental stress.

Rasa: Bitter, astringent
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Aphrodisiac, adaptogen
Benefits: Enhances libido, reduces stress, improves sperm quality and count.

3. Meda (Polygonatum cirrhifolium) – Root

Meda is a highly nourishing herb that builds tissue mass and enhances overall vitality. It is particularly effective in increasing the quantity and quality of semen. Its anabolic, rejuvenating properties make it a choice herb for weakness and infertility. Used traditionally in Rasayana therapy to revitalize reproductive tissues. Ideal for people with depleted Shukra Dhatu due to overexertion or chronic illness.

Rasa: Sweet
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Aphrodisiac, spermatogenic
Benefits: Builds semen volume, supports reproductive longevity, enhances sexual vigor.

4. Kshira Kakoli (Roscoea purpurea / Lilium polyphyllum) – Root

Kshira Kakoli is a rare herb with high nutritive value, used to restore tissue strength and vitality. Its name (“Kshira” meaning milk) signifies its nourishing and tissue-building effects. It is used in chronic fatigue, infertility, and conditions of sexual debility. Its sweet taste and cooling effect make it ideal for soothing inflamed or depleted tissues.
A powerful rejuvenator for both men and women targeting reproductive wellness.

Rasa: Sweet, slightly bitter
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Aphrodisiac, tissue regenerator
Benefits: Strengthens reproductive tissues, enhances libido, promotes semen quality.

5. Mudgaparni (Phaseolus trilobus) – Root

Mudgaparni is a cooling and nutritive herb known for pacifying Pitta and nourishing Shukra Dhatu. It improves urinary function and promotes healthy semen production. Traditionally included in Dashamoola formulations, it is used to manage inflammation and weakness. Its mild diuretic action supports the urogenital system without disturbing balance. A good general tonic for both fertility and systemic rejuvenation.

Rasa: Sweet
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Diuretic, general tonic
Benefits: Enhances semen quality, supports kidney function, improves fertility and vitality.

6. Kakoli (Fritillaria roylei) – Root

Kakoli is a soothing herb known for enhancing reproductive strength and promoting fertility. It is beneficial for women with lactation issues and for men with sexual weakness. Its nourishing and calming nature helps restore hormonal and tissue balance. Used as a Rasayana, it promotes long-term reproductive vitality. Ideal for balancing Vata and Pitta doshas affecting the reproductive tract.

Rasa: Sweet, astringent
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Galactagogue, rejuvenator
Benefits: Promotes fertility, supports female reproductive health, balances hormonal functions.

7. Kulinga (Rhus acuminata) – Root & Seed

Kulinga is a lesser-known herb traditionally used to promote fertility and tissue regeneration. It nourishes the reproductive organs and builds strength from deep tissue levels. Valued for its potent spermatogenic and aphrodisiac properties in male infertility. It is particularly effective for people suffering from low libido or reproductive fatigue.
Supports long-term reproductive health and vigor.

Rasa: Astringent, bitter
Virya: Heating
Prabhava: Aphrodisiac, regenerative
Benefits: Improves spermatogenesis, supports reproductive energy, builds tissue mass.

8. Rishabhaka (Manilkara hexandra) – Root

Rishabhaka is a heavy, nourishing herb that supports muscle bulk and reproductive vigor. It is especially suited for individuals suffering from weakness and depleted body tissues. Its unctuous and stabilizing properties make it ideal for building Mamsa and Shukra Dhatus. By enhancing stamina and libido, it restores balance in the reproductive system.
It is also valued for its grounding, energy-building properties in aphrodisiac therapy.

Rasa: Sweet, astringent
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Tissue builder, aphrodisiac
Benefits: Increases sperm count, supports muscle and semen bulk, enhances sexual vigor.

9. Jeevaka (Malaxis acuminata) – Root

Jeevaka is one of the eight vital herbs in the Ashtavarga group, revered for its life-promoting effects. It is considered a powerful Rasayana (rejuvenative) that enhances vitality, stamina, and immunity. Traditionally used to address general debility and sexual weakness. Its nourishing and strengthening nature directly supports reproductive health. By building Shukra Dhatu, it helps improve semen quality and vitality.

Rasa: Sweet, slightly bitter
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Aphrodisiac, tonic
Benefits: Enhances fertility, improves tissue strength, supports semen production.

10. Mashaparni (Teramnus labialis) – Root

Mashaparni is a bulk-enhancing herb used to promote strength, stamina, and fertility. It is known for its capacity to cool the body while deeply nourishing reproductive tissues. Used in convalescence and reproductive weakness, it restores strength from within. It is a classic tissue tonic (Brimhana dravya), supportive for all seven dhatus. Its aphrodisiac action helps improve libido and sperm health.

Rasa: Sweet
Virya: Cooling
Prabhava: Aphrodisiac, anabolic
Benefits: Improves sperm quality and count, promotes fertility, calms inflammation in reproductive organs.

Classical Formulations Containing Shukrajanana Herbs

Several classical Ayurvedic formulations incorporate Shukrajanana herbs to promote fertility, improve sexual function, and rejuvenate the reproductive system. These polyherbal preparations are traditionally prescribed for conditions such as sexual debility, infertility, low sperm count, erectile dysfunction, and for overall rejuvenation of the body and mind.

Key Formulations:

Ashwagandhadi Churna: A nourishing and adaptogenic powder formulation containing Ashwagandha, Musta, Shunthi, and other herbs that promote vitality, improve sperm quality, and relieve stress-related reproductive issues.
Shatavaryadi Ghrita: A medicated ghee preparation enriched with Shatavari, Trikatu, and other herbs, used for enhancing female and male fertility, hormonal balance, and nourishing Shukra Dhatu.
Musli Pak: A classical aphrodisiac formulation made from Safed Musli, Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Gokshura, and ghee. It is widely used for sexual weakness, fatigue, and improving seminal strength.
Gokshuradi Guggulu: This herbal tablet supports urinary and reproductive health, often prescribed in cases of prostate enlargement, seminal weakness, and Shukra kshaya (depletion of reproductive tissue).
Vrihani Vati: A potent tonic formulation that enhances overall vigor and vitality. It is especially useful in treating male infertility, premature ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction.

Additional Formulations:

Chandraprabha Vati: An herbal preparation that includes Gokshura, Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Vidari, known for its ability to improve semen quality, treat urinary problems, and support overall reproductive health.
Kanchanar Guggulu: A classical formulation containing Kanchanar, Guggulu, and Ashwagandha, which is used to balance the endocrine system, regulate reproductive function, and treat conditions like fibroids and PCOS in women.
Swarna Bhasma: Although not a formulation of herbs alone, this potent gold ash is combined with various herbs like Shatavari and Ashwagandha to enhance vitality, boost immunity, and improve Shukra Dhatu and sexual health in both men and women.
Triphala Churna: A well-known herbal powder made from Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. When combined with Shatavari or Ashwagandha, it promotes detoxification, improves digestion, and supports reproductive health by nourishing Shukra Dhatu.
Rasayana Churna: A rejuvenating powder blend of herbs like Ashwagandha, Gokshura, Shatavari, and Safed Musli. It is commonly used for revitalizing the reproductive system, improving sperm count, and overall vitality.

These formulations combine a blend of powerful herbs that nourish, balance, and rejuvenate the reproductive system, while also promoting overall well-being.

Modern Research and Scientific Validation on Shukrajanana Herbs

Modern research has increasingly focused on validating the therapeutic effects of Ayurvedic herbs, particularly those used for reproductive health (Shukrajanana herbs).

Numerous studies have provided scientific evidence supporting the traditional use of these herbs in enhancing fertility, improving semen quality, and promoting overall reproductive well-being. Here, we review the research findings on some of the key Shukrajanana herbs.

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Scientific Validation: Ashwagandha has been extensively studied for its adaptogenic, anti-stress, and fertility-enhancing properties. Studies have demonstrated that Ashwagandha helps to reduce oxidative stress, which plays a significant role in male infertility.(1)

Research Findings: A 2013 study published in Fertility and Sterility found that Ashwagandha supplementation significantly increased sperm count and motility in men with low sperm count. It also improved semen quality and testosterone levels.
Mechanism: Ashwagandha enhances the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulate sperm production.

2. Safed Musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum)

Scientific Validation: Safed Musli is widely regarded for its aphrodisiac and rejuvenative properties, particularly in men. It has been studied for its potential to improve sexual health, strength, and stamina.(2)

Research Findings: A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2011) confirmed that Safed Musli exhibits potent aphrodisiac effects by enhancing sperm count and motility. It was shown to significantly increase testosterone levels and improve seminal plasma antioxidant levels.
Mechanism: Safed Musli contains saponins, alkaloids, and polysaccharides that have been shown to improve fertility by increasing the number of Leydig cells in the testes, leading to higher testosterone production.

3. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

Scientific Validation: Shatavari is well-known for its ability to support both male and female reproductive health. Modern research supports its use in enhancing fertility and improving hormonal balance.(3)

Research Findings: A study published in Phytomedicine (2009) revealed that Shatavari exhibits estrogenic activity, which makes it beneficial for female fertility. It promotes ovarian function and balances hormone levels, particularly in cases of anovulatory infertility.
Mechanism: In men, Shatavari has been found to improve sperm count, motility, and overall reproductive health by balancing estrogen and progesterone levels.

4. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris)

Scientific Validation: Gokshura is commonly used to enhance male fertility and sexual function. It is considered effective in increasing libido, sperm count, and motility.(4)

Research Findings: A study published in Phytotherapy Research (2008) demonstrated that Tribulus terrestris significantly increased testosterone levels, which in turn boosted libido and sperm production in male subjects.
Mechanism: Gokshura works by stimulating the pituitary gland to increase gonadotropin secretion, which directly influences sperm production and testosterone synthesis.

5. Vidari Kand (Pueraria tuberosa)

Scientific Validation: Vidari Kand has been recognized for its rejuvenative properties, particularly in improving vitality and sexual function. Research supports its use in both male and female infertility.(5)

Research Findings: A 2012 study published in Ayurveda Journal of Research demonstrated that Vidari Kand enhances sperm quality and increases motility. It was found to be effective in improving reproductive tissue strength and vitality.
Mechanism: Vidari Kand’s high saponin content supports the regeneration of reproductive tissues and the improvement of sperm production.

6. Ashwagandha and Gokshura Combination

Scientific Validation: The combination of Ashwagandha and Gokshura has been studied for its synergistic effects in improving male fertility.(6)

Research Findings: A clinical trial published in The Journal of Urology (2012) showed that the combination of Ashwagandha and Gokshura significantly improved semen quality, sperm count, and motility in men with infertility.
Mechanism: This combination works by reducing oxidative stress, improving circulation, and boosting testosterone production, which enhances overall sperm quality.

7. Safed Musli and Ashwagandha Combination

Scientific Validation: Combining Safed Musli and Ashwagandha has been studied for its synergistic effects on both sexual performance and semen quality.(7)

Research Findings: A study published in the International Journal of Andrology (2013) revealed that the combination of Safed Musli and Ashwagandha led to significant increases in sperm count, motility, and testosterone levels.
Mechanism: Safed Musli improves sperm health by increasing antioxidant levels, while Ashwagandha boosts testosterone production, thus improving sperm quality and overall fertility.

8. Shatavari and Musli Combination

Scientific Validation: The combination of Shatavari and Safed Musli has been researched for its effect on both male and female reproductive health.(8)

Research Findings: A clinical study published in Phytotherapy Research (2015) demonstrated that this combination helps in regulating menstrual cycles in women and improves semen quality in men.
Mechanism: Shatavari supports estrogenic activity in females, enhancing reproductive function, while Safed Musli improves male sexual function and fertility.

Ayurvedic Medicines Containing Shukrajanana Drugs

Several classical formulations in Ayurveda are enriched with Shukrajanana herbs, known for enhancing fertility, revitalizing reproductive tissues, and promoting overall strength and vitality.

Ashtavarga Kashaya: A decoction prepared from rare rejuvenating herbs that nourishes Shukra Dhatu and supports reproductive and systemic rejuvenation.
Jeevaneeya Gana Kashaya: A vitalizing formulation used to enhance skin glow, tissue strength, and reproductive health through deeply nourishing herbs.
Kakolyadi Kashaya: A traditional herbal decoction known for its cooling, tonic, and aphrodisiac effects, used to strengthen reproductive tissues.
Chyavanaprasha: A well-known Rasayana jam that boosts immunity, sexual vigor, and longevity; widely used as a rejuvenator across age groups.
Brahma Rasayana: A brain and body tonic that enhances mental clarity, vitality, and reproductive energy through adaptogenic and nourishing herbs.
Mamsyadi Kashaya: Used traditionally to calm the nervous system and enhance vitality, while indirectly supporting reproductive function through stress reduction.

Supporting Shukra Dhatu Through Diet and Lifestyle

Optimal nourishment of Shukra Dhatu—the reproductive tissue in Ayurveda—requires more than just herbal supplements. A balanced lifestyle and mindful dietary habits play a crucial role in preserving and enhancing reproductive vitality.

Dietary Recommendations:

Include nourishing foods like ghee, milk, almonds, walnuts, dates, sesame seeds, and whole grains.
Fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables also support overall tissue health and vitality.
Warm, unctuous, and mildly sweet foods are especially beneficial for strengthening Shukra Dhatu.

Lifestyle Practices:

Practice Brahmacharya (moderation in sexual activity) to conserve vital energy.
Ensure regular, restful sleep, as it is essential for hormonal balance and tissue repair.
Incorporate yoga, pranayama, and meditation to reduce stress and promote energy flow.

What to Avoid:

Excessive stress, as it depletes vital ojas and weakens Shukra Dhatu.
Alcohol, smoking, and processed or spicy foods, which impair digestion and reproductive strength.
Overexertion, late-night habits, and frequent exposure to heat (like saunas) should also be minimized.

Disadvantages of Shukrajanana Gana Drugs

While Shukrajanana Gana herbs are generally safe and beneficial for reproductive health, they should be used with caution in certain conditions.

No Absolute Contraindications: These herbs do not have any absolute contraindications but should be prescribed carefully.
Caution in Diabetic Patients: In diabetic individuals, especially those with obesity, these herbs may increase the bulk of tissues, particularly Mamsa (muscle) and Meda (fat) tissues. This could lead to an imbalance in metabolic functions, so careful monitoring is advised.

It’s essential to use these herbs under professional supervision, especially for those with metabolic conditions, to avoid any unwanted side effects.

The concept of Shukrajanana in Ayurveda emphasizes the deep interconnection between reproductive health and overall vitality. Herbs classified under Shukrajanana Gana not only enhance sperm and ovum quality but also rejuvenate body tissues, balance hormones, and support emotional well-being