Erectile dysfunction, also called ED or impotence, affects millions of men in the U.S. every year. This condition refers to a man who cannot have or keep an erection in order to have sexual intercourse. It has many different causes including surgery, medication side-effects, disease, psychological factors and lifestyle.
The good news is there are a number of natural options for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Scientific research has not been proven that natural remedies are completely effective. So, with that said proceed with caution and always consult with your physician before using any supplement of this nature.
Natural Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction
1. Herbal Remedies
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Ginseng
|
Ginseng, especially Korean red ginseng, can be helpful via nitric oxide synthesis. Studies do show that there is some success with this herb, but it should be used under a doctor’s supervision. |
| Ashwagandha |
Ashwagandha, otherwise known as Indian Ginseng, is said to increase stamina, energy levels and improve sexual function. This herb may have sedative effects. You cannot take this herb with medications that cause drowsiness. |
| Yohimbe
|
A drug made from this herb was previously prescribed by doctors before Viagra was created. It had limited effectiveness and did carry some side-effects such as nervousness, increased blood pressure, headache and anxiety. |
| Horny Goat Weed
|
A substance in goat weed, icariin, is comparable to Viagra. There were studies done by researchers in Italy found it did have limited similar effects to Viagra. This supplement has been used for many years. |
| Ginkgo Biloba
|
Since Gingko Biloba is used for lower cognition, it may be helpful to men who use anti-depressant medications. |
2. Supplements
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Arginine
|
Arginine is an amino acid that we eat every day in foods. It is said to help increase erections by increasing the nitric oxide in the body, which helps blood flow to the penis area. Studies claim it is somewhat effective in some men with little or no side-effects. |
| DHEA
|
DHEA converts into testosterone which can improve sexual performance in men. This alleviates the need for synthetic testosterone replacement therapy in some men, but should be used under a doctor’s supervision due to possible effects on the pituitary gland. |
| Carnitine
|
There are two different types of carnitine; propionyl-L carnitine and acetyl-L carnitine. When taken with sildenafil, these substances can increase its effectiveness and improve sexual function and sexual satisfaction. These results were compared to men who only used Viagra. |
| Baryta Carbonica
|
This homeopathic remedy can help with increasing libido, erection and decrease the incidence of premature ejaculation. It also has positive effects on prostate function and reduces frequency of urination. |
| Selenium Metallicum
|
This is another homeopathic remedy that can help men that think about sex often, but are unable to perform. This remedy can help with post-illness sexual dysfunction where men feel fatigued and weak, but still desire sex. This remedy can help symptoms like sexual desire with soft erection and premature ejaculation. |
3. Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been used for impotence since ancient times. Asian scientists did numerous studies to back up the claims, but could not find any scientific evidence that it is effective.
4. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
- Drink Pomegranate Juice. Pomegranate juice with its antioxidant properties benefits the heart and overall health. One small study showed very positive results that pomegranate juice helped ED, but more evidence was needed. Doctors recommend that it can’t hurt to try it, because it has overall benefits to the body.
- Take More Zinc. Zinc deficiency related to certain liver and kidney diseases, diabetes, digestive disorders and diuretic use can cause erectile dysfunction. Take zinc foods or supplementation get rid of this condition.
- Quit Smoking. The use of nicotine can constrict the blood vessels in the penis and lower the amount of blood flow that promotes erection. This can reduce sexual potency.
- Limit Alcohol. The sedative effects of alcohol can reduce sexual function.
- Check Your Drugs. There are a number of medications that can contribute to ED, these include anti-depressants, sedatives, blood pressure medications, cimetidine for ulcers, appetite suppressants and antihistamines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other medications you can take in place of these that don’t have a side-effect of impotence.
- Keep Healthy. Lifestyle changes with diet and exercise can help improve circulation of blood to the penis. Eating a healthy diet and reducing intake of saturated and trans-fats along with increasing whole grains, fruits and vegetables can have a positive effect. Increase exercise to help increase blood flow.
- Control Stress. High stress levels can increase chances of ED and reduce sexual desire. Take some time for stress reduction activities like meditation, yoga, walking and deep breathing. You can also talk to your partner about yours and their feelings about ED to avoid any relationship issues.