Herbal Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction (E.D)
Long term smoking, high alcohol consumption and the use of recreational drugs all contribute to developing E.D. Obesity and lack of regular exercise are also factors that can lead E.D. So if you think that you may have E.D the first thing is to cut out smoking and recreational drugs, cut down on alcohol consumption and start regular exercise. Anxiety and stress can also lead to men developing E.D.
Certain prescribed medications have side effects that can also cause E.D. There are also certain illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure that can cause E.D. If you have diabetes or are on prescribed medication, please contact your G.P to discuss the natural remedies that are safe for you to take. It is also important to have your cardiac system checked before taking any herbal remedies for E.D.
The following natural remedies can be taken for E.D:
Damiana. This herbal remedy is native to Mexico and other parts of Central America. It has been associated with improved sexual function in both men and women. This remedy works by improving blood circulation and stimulating the nervous system. Damiana should be taken for a few weeks before its beneficial action is seen. This natural remedy is often combined with Muira Puama to improve the stability of erections during intercourse. Damiana is available as a tincture, tea, tablet or capsule. If you have diabetes, you should not take this herb as it can also lower blood sugar levels. A common side effect of Damiana is mild indigestion.
Muira Puama. This natural remedy originates from the Amazon rain forest. The herbal tincture is made from the tree, using the bark, root, flowers and fruit. Muira Puama has been used as an aphrodisiac historically. It is also used to treat nervous exhaustion and mild depression. Studies have found that this herb has helped to restore sex drive and erectile function. Muira Puama has also been included in certain formulations to treat male pattern baldness. There are currently no known drug interactions with Muiral Puama. It is usually available in the form of a tincture or capsule.
Catuaba is another herbal remedy that originates from the Brazilian rain forest. This natural herbal remedy has been found to strengthen erections. Catuaba is one of the most commonly used natural aphrodisiacs in Brazil. This herb has also been used as a tonic for the nervous system, to improve libido, and to improve memory. Catuaba is often combined with Muira Puama in the treatment of E.D. It is available as a tincture or capsule. There are currently no known drug interactions with this herb, but it is important to check with your GP or pharmacist if you are taking any prescribed medication.
Epimedium. This herbal remedy is also known as Goat Wort and Horny Goat Weed and is a traditionally used Chinese herb for impotence. Epimedium works by dilating capillaries and other blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow to the sexual organs. It stimulates sexual activity in both men and women. In men, Epimedium improves bloodflow to the penis and relaxes the smooth muscle tissue. This natural remedy works by inhibiting the enzyme, Phosphodiesterases (PDE)- 5. This is also how the commonly used conventional medicines for E.D work. Epimedium is usually available as a tincture, powder, tablet or capsule. This herb should not be taken if you have high blood pressure. If you are taking prescribed medication, please consult with your G.P before taking this remedy.
The herbal remedy Tribulus Terrestris has recently been marked as a “mens” remedy by many well known health companies. This natural remedy has been marketed as a sport’s supplement as well as improving sexual performance. It is believed that the active components of Tribulus work by increasing levels of testosterone, although these results have not been verified scientifically as yet. This remedy has been used successfully by many men for E.D and low libido. Tribulus is thought to increase the release of nitric oxide and increase blood flow to the penis.
Gingko Biloba is a commonly used herbal remedy. It generally works by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow throughout the body. Gingko stimulates circulation and stops blood clotting. Gingko is used to treat a variety of conditions, ranging from tinnitus, improving memory through to E.D. Gingko contains compounds that cause the blood vessels to relax, which in the case of E.D results in an increased blood flow to the penis.
This herbal remedy should be used with medical supervision if you are taking Aspirin or Warfarin. Gingko has been shown to be particularly helpful in men who suffer with E.D as a result of being on antidepressant medication. Several studies have found that Gingko helped to reverse E.D after four to six weeks in men who were talking antidepressants such as fluoxetine and sertraline. This herb is generally available as a tincture or in tablet form.
Ginseng is a Chinese herbal medicine that has been used for over 2,000 years. This is another natural herbal remedy that has multiple uses. For example, Ginseng is used as a support remedy for the adrenal glands, for menopausal symptoms and E.D. Ginseng is also commonly used to increase energy and enhance physical performance. It is also referred to as an adaptogen. This means that it can increase the body’s ability to deal with both mentally and physically stressful situations. This remedy works by acting as an aphrodisiac. Ginseng has been found to stimulate the area of the brain that is responsible for stimulating growth and healing of the sex organs. Studies have also found that Ginseng increases blood flow to the penis. This herbal remedy is found in many vitamin and mineral supplements, but amounts are normally too small to be effective. Ginseng is available as a tea, tincture and in tablet / capsule form.
Yohimbine is a herb that is native to Cameroon, Congo and parts of Central Africa. This herbal remedy is in many popular products that are sold for E.D. It has been used as a natural aphrodisiac for both sexes traditionally. Yohimbine was traditionally taken as a herbal tea for stimulating the sexual organs. Studies have found that Yohimbine stimulates nerve cells that regulate the flow of blood to the penis. This natural remedy has also been found to relieve E.D as a result of antidepressant medication such as fluoxetine and sertraline. If you are taking any prescribed medication, please consult your G.P before taking this herbal remedy. Yohimbine is best taken as a tincture.
Herbal Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction (E.D) by Rahul M Shah
