The search for a cure for erectile dysfunction (ED) predates the introduction of Viagra in the 1990s. Natural aphrodisiacs, from ground rhinoceros to chocolate, have long been used to treat and increase libido. , potency, or sexual pleasure. These natural remedies are also popular because they are said to have fewer side effects than prescription drugs.
Types Of Herbs That May Help Viagra
Research shows that certain herbs have varying degrees of success for erectile dysfunction. These herbs include:
- Panax Ginseng
- Maca
- Yohimbine
- Ginkgo
- Mondia White
Panax Ginseng, A Chinese And Korean Herb
Panax ginseng has a 2,000-year history in Chinese and Korean medicine as a tonic for health and longevity to treat the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Although studies are limited, the results of a 2008 research study suggest that red ginseng may improve erectile dysfunction.
But the researchers also recognize that more studies with larger groups of participants are needed. In addition to potentially treating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction, taking P.ginseng may provide an improvement: Panax ginseng acts as an antioxidant and releases nitric oxide (NO) that supports erectile functions. Some people use P.Ginseng cream for premature ejaculation. This herb is considered a safe treatment, but should only be used short-term (6-8 weeks).
Your doctor can confirm how long you need to use it. The most common side effect of ginseng is insomnia. Ginseng can have negative interactions with alcohol, caffeine, and some medications. Ask your doctor how often you can take Panax ginseng if you plan to use it.
In addition to possibly treating ED symptoms, taking P. ginseng may improve:
- Stamina
- Concentration
- Stress
- Overall well-being
It could also improve:
- Penile rigidity
- Girth
- Duration of erection
- Improved libido
- Overall satisfaction
Maca, The Root Vegetable From Peru
For overall health benefits, maca is a great addition to your diet. Maca, or Lepidium meyenii, is rich in:
- Amino Acids
- Iodine
- Iron
- Magnesium
There are three types of Maca: red, black, and yellow. Black Maca can reduce the stress that can lead to erectile dysfunction. Health claims for maca are not backed by scientific evidence.
How To Use Maca
Men who took 3 grams of maca per day for 8 weeks were more likely to report an improvement in sexual desire than men who did not take it. While maca is generally safe, studies show increased blood pressure in people with heart problems who ingested 0.6 grams of maca per day.
Yohimbine, A West African Tree Bark
Yohimbine comes from the bark of a West African evergreen tree. It is a treatment for erectile dysfunction because it is believed to:
Activates nerves in the penis to release more NO, dilates blood vessels to increase blood flow in the penis, stimulates the pelvic nerve and increases adrenaline delivery, increases sexual desire, prolongs erections
Studies on the effects of Chave had mixed results. A meta-analysis of several studies found that yohimbine was only effective in combination with other treatments for erectile dysfunction. Another study found that 16 out of 29 men were able to achieve orgasm and ejaculate after completing their treatment. A combination of yohimbine and L-arginine has been shown to significantly improve erectile function in people with erectile dysfunction. L-arginine is an amino acid that helps dilate blood vessels.
Side Effects Of Yohimbine
It is considered safe and effective for erectile dysfunction but can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Avoid taking L-arginine with Viagra, nitrates, or other high blood pressure medications. If you have high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, diabetes, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or kidney/liver disease and want to take yohimbine, talk to your doctor so he or she can monitor you. While some tests have shown positive results, yohimbine’s adrenaline effects can cause side effects. These include:
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Agitation
- Hypertension
- Insomnia
Talk with your doctor before taking yohimbine, especially if you’re also taking antidepressants or stimulant medications.
Mondia whitei, Roots Of An African Plant
Mondia white, also known as white ginger, is particularly popular in Uganda, where medicinal plants are more common than drugs. It is used to increase libido and control low sperm count.
Ginkgo Biloba, Herb From A Chinese Tree
A Chinese ginkgo Biloba tree can increase blood flow to the penis.
An animal study found that ginkgo Biloba helped improve erectile function in rats after nerve injury. While more research is needed, researchers are speculating that this herb may be beneficial in restoring erectile function after prostate cancer surgery. Another study saw an improvement in sexual function in men who took antidepressants. Because of this, researchers believe ginkgo may be effective in men with erectile dysfunction due to medication. However, some studies report no improvement or change after taking ginkgo.
How To Use Ginkgo
This may mean that ginkgo is better for treating erectile dysfunction than treating or curing it. In the study, in which men reported a positive reaction, participants took 40 or 6-milligram capsules twice a day for 4 weeks. take antidepressants. Talk to your doctor if you’re considering taking ginkgo supplements. May cause stomach upset.
Your risk of bleeding may be increased, particularly if you are taking blood-thinning medication such as warfarin.
- Sexual desire
- Human sperm motility
- Testosterone levels
- Nitric oxide production and erections
Effects On Animals
Other herbs thought to treat erectile dysfunction These herbs have been shown to have erectile-promoting effects in animals such as rabbits and rats:
Horny Goat Weed or Epimedium:
This herb acts as a natural phosphodiesterase inhibitor to help dilate blood vessels of the penis, as well as medications prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction.
Musli or Chlorophytum borivilianum:
This herb is believed to have aphrodisiac effects to increase sexual desire, as well as anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce inflammation.
Saffron or Crocus sativus:
Researchers don’t know exactly how saffron may affect erectile dysfunction, but small studies have found that saffron may improve some sexual dysfunctions and overall sexual satisfaction.
Tribulus Terrestris:
In some animal studies, Tribulus Terrestris increased the amount of nitric oxide in the cavernous tissue of rats with type 2 diabetes. Always talk to your doctor before trying a new herbal supplement. For these particular herbs, there is little, if any, scientific evidence of their effects on humans.
They can also negatively interact with your medications or cause unwanted side effects.
Possible Risks And Side Effects
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any of these herbs for medical treatment. Many herbs come from other countries and may be contaminated by soil contamination or poor factory conditions. It’s not as well studied or proven as prescription drugs like Viagra. Always buy your supplements from a reputable source.
The FDA also warns men against buying supplements and creams advertised as “Herbal Viagra.” Herbal Viagra is banned as it may contain undeclared prescription drugs or harmful ingredients that can cause serious side effects. In most cases, harmful substances are not listed in the ingredients. Consult your doctor before buying ED over-the-counter or online treatments.
