Does anybody know herbs that can (assist) as an alternative to orthodox methods of birth control?

Question:

Does anyone have any naturopathic experience regarding known herbs in the field that can (assist) as birth control since at 47 I am still not interested in getting a hysterectomy or my tubes tied or any variation thereof, so responses regarding orthodox opinions need not respond. I am not expecting a high percentage guarantee on the herbal possibilites, but my understanding is there are a handful of known herbs used by other countries for centuries, though all work differently, have the same job of ultimately lowering the odds of pregnancy. Does anyone know a website(s) or know someone or can put me in touch with the information or person(s) or a reputable forum. I don't smoke. I am healthy. I am not in perimenopause. I have regular 21-24 day cycles/periods. If you know of any of these herbs, please tell me what they are and how or what there function is. I heard some can keep the unterus acidic (or is it alkaline?) so the fertilized egg has a (more) difficult time implanting ? thx

Answers:
I'm not saying it's gonna work, but I read in the book "The Red Tent" (*really GOOD book!*) that fennel seeds were taken to avoid pregnancy.

The book is about women in the time of the old testament, told from the perspective of the daughter of Joseph & his many wives. Midwivery & the spiritual aspect of being a woman is a major theme.

You should speak with a naturopathic physician.
http://www.naturopathic.org/findannd.php...

EDIT:
I found some stuff on the web:

... condom?

I sympathize with your position but I seriously would never rely on any herb 100%. Look at your key words in your question, lowering odds of pregnancy. It may be better off for you to use condoms (although I know they are a hassle) but they are more effective than relying solely on herbs. Your last question would be acidic, but if any part of your body is too acidic you are at risk to develop cancer so that would not be a direction I would recomend especially at your age and if you have not had children already. good luck.

I read information about this in a new book I bought called "Heinerman's Encyclopedia of Healing Herbs & Spices" by"John Heinerman.
Juniper Berry extract was used in India, page 296
the other:
Kolu Nut which is in Diet Coke and the Diet coke was used as a douche after sexual intercourse and was very effective in killing all the sperm. page 298
There are others I have read about, but I have not tried any of them since I'm not at risk anymore. However, since you know your body so well and you have counted it so well, that was always may best method of use to prevent any unexpected. Hope this helps, I would recommend looking the book up on amazon or borders.com and you can go to these pages online to preview. There isn't much stated in there, but enough so to speak about this particular subject.

There is an old joke I heard at herb school once:

"Know what we call a woman who relies on natural birth control?"

"MOM!"

I agree with Roxanne. After 24 years of being a professional herbalist, herbal educator, and acupuncturist, I've yet to see a safe and reliable herbal birth control.

Does anybody know herbs that can (assist) as an alternative to orthodox methods of birth control?

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