International Men's Day - Herbs to Support 6 Aspects of Men's Health

International Men's Day: Herbs to support 6 aspects of men's health

As we commemorate International Men's Day, it's a good moment to talk openly about men's wellbeing and the traditions that have grown up around it. Drawing from the wealth of knowledge in herbal nutrition, we can explore traditional culinary herbs that have been enjoyed for centuries as part of daily routines. Herbs are not a treatment or cure for any condition. If you have symptoms or concerns about any aspect of your health, speak to your GP first.

A group of men smiling at the camera.

What is International Men's Day?

International Men's Day (IMD) is an annual observance held on November 19th to appreciate and advocate for positive aspects of masculinity while raising awareness about global men's issues. This day aims to spotlight men's contributions and accomplishments across different fields, shedding light on the hurdles they may encounter concerning health, well-being, and societal expectations. It provides a platform to discuss topics like mental health, challenging stereotypes of masculinity, and toxicity and emphasises the significance of positive fatherhood.

Observed in numerous countries worldwide, IMD encourages open dialogues about men's unique experiences and struggles, ultimately contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of gender-related issues. It serves as a day to recognise the varied journeys of men and to foster the development of a more supportive society.

Four men having fun while sitting on a ledge atop a leafy mountain.

Six Areas of Wellbeing, and the Herbs Traditionally Linked to Them

Below are six areas of wellbeing men often think about, and the herbs Chinese tradition has long associated with each. These are traditional associations rather than medical claims.

Always seek advice from your GP about any health concern, and from a qualified TCM practitioner before taking any herbs. They are meant for complementary use, not a replacement, treatment, or a cure.

Whether it is for yourself, a partner, family, or even a friend, here are the six areas:

1. Prostate Awareness


Prostate health becomes a bigger topic for men as they age. Any prostate symptoms should always be discussed with a GP, and awareness days like this are a good prompt to book that appointment.

A man in boxer shorts holding a heart-shaped object.
Reishi is one of the most revered mushrooms in Chinese tradition, used for centuries and traditionally associated with balance, vitality, and resilience as part of a daily routine. It sits within the group of ingredients traditionally described as adaptogens.

Dried Reishi Mushroom - Vita Herbal Nutrition

2. Vitality

Vitality and energy are closely tied to overall wellbeing. Concerns in this area can have medical causes, so they are always worth raising with a GP rather than managing alone.

A couple laying in bed.

The clue's in the name! Horny Goat Weed has been included in traditional Chinese formulations associated with vitality for centuries, and its colourful name comes from old herding folklore. Why not try it in capsule form as part of your daily routine?

Horny Goat Weed - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    San Qi, or notoginseng, is one of the most treasured roots in Chinese herbal practice, traditionally associated with circulation and recovery. It belongs to the same plant family as ginseng and has been prized in traditional preparations for centuries.

    Dried Notoginseng Panax - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    3. Stress and Mental Health

    Men may face stress, anxiety, and depression, but societal expectations sometimes discourage open discussion about mental health. It is always important to talk to others; don't feel afraid to speak up. If you are struggling, speak to your GP or a mental health professional, and organisations such as Mind and the Samaritans are there for support.

    A man sits down looking stressed with a spiralling background to signify his mental state.

    Also known as "golden root" or "Arctic root," Rhodiola grows in cold parts of Europe and Asia and has a long history of traditional use. It belongs to the group of herbs traditionally described as adaptogens and has long been taken during busy and demanding periods. The capsules are an easy way to add it into your daily routine.

    Rhodiola Rosea Root - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    Schisandra, the 'five flavour berry', is another herb from the adaptogenic tradition, traditionally associated with a sense of calm and focus. Try it brewed as a tea as part of an unwinding evening routine.

    Dried Schisandra - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    4. Heart Health Awareness


    Heart health is one of the most important areas for men to stay on top of. Any symptoms such as chest discomfort need urgent medical attention, so never rely on herbs or delay seeing a doctor.

    Supplements for Cardiovascular Health - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    Dang Shen, or codonopsis root, is one of the gentlest and most familiar tonic roots in Chinese tradition, often called the everyday alternative to ginseng. It is traditionally simmered into family soups and broths as part of a balanced routine, and its mild, faintly sweet character makes it easy to cook with.

    Dried Codonopsis Root - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    Hawthorn, known as Shan Zha, holds a significant place in Chinese tradition, where it is most classically enjoyed after rich meals and is traditionally associated with digestion. In Western folk herbalism the berry has long been linked with the heart as a matter of heritage, which is why it so often appears in traditional preparations on both sides of the world.

    Dried Hawthorn Berries - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    5. Staying Active

    Aches and stiffness from work, exercise, and age are familiar to most men. Persistent pain should always be checked by a GP.

    A man struggles to carry a large box.
    Eucommia Bark, known as Du Zhong, is a classical herb of Chinese tradition, where it is described in traditional texts as a yang tonic associated with the bones and sinews. It has been part of traditional preparations for active lifestyles for centuries.
    Dried Eucommia Bark - Vita Herbal Nutrition
    Dried ginger root, or Gan Jiang, is traditionally described as one of the great warming herbs, long enjoyed in teas and broths after exertion or in the colder months. A warm ginger tea after a heavy day is one of the simplest rituals in the tradition.

    Dried Ginger Root - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    6. Everyday Resilience

    Looking after everyday resilience matters, particularly during stressful periods and the colder months.

    Three men enjoy a walk through a forest while the sun pokes through the trees.
    Astragalus, known as Huang Qi, is one of the classical Qi tonics of Chinese tradition, traditionally simmered into soups and teas through the colder months as part of a daily routine.

    Goji berries are one of the most nutritious everyday ingredients in the range, naturally containing vitamins and plant compounds, and have been scattered over breakfasts, brewed into teas, and simmered into soups across China for centuries.

    Dried Goji Berries - Vita Herbal Nutrition

    Summary

    In celebration of International Men's Day, why not explore the herbs and traditions above? Don't forget, it is OK to talk about men's health; opening up might just help a friend. And for anything health-related, your GP is always the right first port of call, with a qualified TCM practitioner able to advise on traditional use.

    Discover the wide selection of Chinese herbs in our range.

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