Evaluating the effect of a combination of palm pollen and black seed pollen on male sex hormones and sperm parameters in infertile men.

This study evaluated the effect of a combination of palm (Phoenix dactylifera) pollen and black seed (Nigella sativa) pollen on male sex hormones (testosterone) and sperm parameters in infertile men. The data showed that a combination of palm pollen and black seed pollen significantly increased the testosterone levels and sperm parameters such as total sperm count and sperm motility (movement) in these men.

Infertility affects men and women. Male infertility is the cause of infertility in 30-50% of couples. Male infertility can be difficult to treat. Men with infertility often have low sperm count or quality. This may include low numbers of sperm that move normally (motility) or low numbers of sperm with a normal shape (morphology). They can also have changes in sex hormones. 

Palm date pollen, the male reproductive dust of palm flowers, has long been used as a dietary supplement to increase libido and improve fertility in both women and men. Palm date pollen contains a variety of compounds including amino acids, fatty acids, flavonoids, saponins, and sterols. In many countries, black seed oil is used as a natural remedy for a wide range of diseases, including various allergies. However, the effect of a combination of palm pollen and black seed pollen on male sex hormones and sperm parameters such as total sperm count, sperm motility, morphology, and concentration in infertile men is still unknown.

This study involved 50 infertile men. Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 included 30 patients who received two 500 mg/kg capsules daily containing a herbal composition of palm pollen extract (350 mg) and black seed powder extract (250 mg). Group 2 included 20 patients who received a placebo in the morning and at night for 3 months. Semen parameters and blood hormones were evaluated before and after treatment. 

The total sperm count, sperm motility, and progressivity were significantly improved in group 1 compared to group 2.

The concentration of male sex hormones such as testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) was significantly increased in group 1 compared to group 2.

This study concluded that a combination of palm pollen and black seed pollen significantly increased testosterone levels and sperm parameters such as total sperm count and sperm motility in infertile men.

The sample size was very small. This study only included patients treated at a single institution in Iran. The herbal composition of the capsules was manufactured by the Golbadistan Company.