A Review of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formulations and Natural Active Ingredients with Therapeutic Potential for Male Infertility Targeting Oxidative Stress

Male infertility has emerged as a significant global concern, with male factors accounting for approximately 30% to 50% of infertility cases. Oxidative stress is recognized as the primary pathological mechanism affecting sperm structure and function. The development and application of chemically synthesized drug therapies are limited by lengthy research and development processes and significant adverse effects. Conversely, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) compounds offer promising clinical applications for enhancing male reproductive function, attributed to their distinctive advantages of multi-target coordination and holistic regulation. This paper systematically reviews classical TCM compounds, such as those that tonify the kidney and benefit essence, warm and invigorate kidney Yang, and replenish Qi and nourish blood. It also examines the molecular mechanisms of active natural ingredients, including flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenes, alkaloids, and polysaccharides. These compounds improve male fertility by modulating oxidative stress-related signaling pathways. Furthermore, this review anticipates future research trajectories and potential applications within this domain, with the objective of establishing a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of idiopathic male infertility and the development of novel pharmacological interventions.