What Tea Is Good for Male Fertility?

Fertility is influenced by various lifestyle factors, including diet and beverage choices. Some teas contain antioxidants and bioactive compounds that may support sperm health by improving motility, concentration, or overall reproductive function. While no tea is a cure-all for fertility concerns, certain varieties have shown potential benefits.

Exploring different types of tea and their components can help identify which options may be most beneficial for male fertility.

Green Tea Compounds

Green tea contains bioactive compounds that have been studied for their role in male fertility, particularly sperm quality. Catechins, a type of polyphenol with strong antioxidant properties, are the most researched. Among them, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has drawn attention for its ability to counteract oxidative stress, a key factor in sperm dysfunction. Oxidative stress occurs when reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulate beyond the body’s ability to neutralize them, leading to cellular damage. Sperm cells, with their high polyunsaturated fatty acid content, are particularly vulnerable. Research in Molecular Human Reproduction has shown that EGCG can mitigate this damage by scavenging free radicals and enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity.

Beyond its antioxidant effects, EGCG has been linked to improved sperm motility and viability. A study in Andrology found that low doses of EGCG enhanced mitochondrial function in sperm cells, leading to increased energy production and improved movement. Mitochondria generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy source for cellular activity, playing a central role in sperm motility. However, excessive intake of green tea catechins has been associated with potential toxicity. A study in Reproductive Toxicology indicated that high concentrations of EGCG could impair sperm function by disrupting calcium signaling, which is essential for sperm activation and the acrosome reaction, the process that allows sperm to penetrate the egg.

Green tea polyphenols may also influence hormonal balance, which plays a role in spermatogenesis. Some research suggests catechins can modulate testosterone levels by inhibiting aromatase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen. A study in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that green tea extract supplementation slightly increased testosterone levels in animal models, though human studies remain inconclusive. While this may benefit men with suboptimal testosterone levels, excessive consumption could lead to hormonal imbalances affecting fertility. Additionally, green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that reduces cortisol levels. Since chronic stress and elevated cortisol can suppress gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and lower testosterone production, L-theanine’s stress-reducing properties may indirectly support reproductive health.

Black, White, And Oolong Varieties

Black, white, and oolong teas, all derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, differ in processing methods that alter their chemical composition. Black tea, being fully oxidized, contains theaflavins and thearubigins, which have antioxidant properties. White tea, the least processed, retains a higher concentration of catechins, while oolong tea, partially oxidized, offers a balance of catechins and theaflavins.

Black tea polyphenols have been examined for their role in reducing oxidative stress, a significant factor in sperm dysfunction. A study in Food Research International found that theaflavins enhanced antioxidant defenses by upregulating enzymes that protect sperm from lipid peroxidation, helping maintain membrane integrity for motility and fertilization. Additionally, black tea contains L-theanine, which may help reduce cortisol levels that can suppress testosterone production.

White tea, due to its minimal processing, retains more catechins, including EGCG, albeit in lower concentrations than green tea. A study in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology suggested that white tea extracts improved sperm vitality and motility in animal models, likely due to reduced oxidative stress and enhanced mitochondrial function. Its lower caffeine content compared to black or oolong tea may also be relevant, as excessive caffeine intake has been linked to decreased sperm concentration in some studies.

Oolong tea, with its intermediate oxidation level, contains a mix of catechins and theaflavins that may offer benefits similar to both green and black teas. Research in The Journal of Functional Foods indicated that oolong tea polyphenols can enhance nitric oxide production, improving blood circulation. While often discussed in the context of cardiovascular health, better blood flow also supports reproductive function by ensuring optimal testicular perfusion. Additionally, oolong tea contains moderate amounts of caffeine and L-theanine, which may contribute to improved energy metabolism without excessive stimulation.

Herbal Infusions With Plant Derived Components

Herbal infusions, unlike traditional teas, are not derived from Camellia sinensis but come from various plants, each with unique bioactive compounds that may influence male fertility. Many herbal options provide benefits without caffeine, making them a suitable choice for individuals seeking fertility-supporting beverages.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most researched herbs for male reproductive health. This adaptogen has been shown to enhance sperm quality by modulating stress hormones and improving testosterone levels. A randomized controlled trial in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that men who consumed ashwagandha root extract experienced a significant increase in sperm concentration, motility, and semen volume after 90 days. The proposed mechanism involves cortisol reduction, which can otherwise interfere with GnRH signaling and suppress testosterone production. When prepared as an infusion, ashwagandha can be consumed as a mild, earthy tea that may support reproductive function.

Maca root (Lepidium meyenii), a Peruvian plant traditionally used for enhancing libido and fertility, has been studied for its effects on sperm parameters. Unlike hormone-modulating herbs, maca appears to improve semen quality without directly altering testosterone levels. A systematic review in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies analyzed multiple clinical trials and found that maca supplementation was associated with increased sperm count and motility, potentially due to its rich profile of amino acids, alkaloids, and glucosinolates. When consumed as a tea, maca powder provides a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that can be incorporated into warm beverages.

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), a South African herbal infusion, contains flavonoids such as quercetin and aspalathin, which exhibit strong antioxidant properties. Unlike green or black tea, rooibos is caffeine-free and has been investigated for its role in reducing oxidative stress, a major contributor to sperm dysfunction. A study in Phytomedicine demonstrated that rooibos extract improved testicular antioxidant enzyme activity in animal models, suggesting potential protective effects on spermatogenesis. While human studies are limited, its high antioxidant capacity and lack of caffeine make rooibos an appealing option for those seeking a supportive beverage for reproductive health.