Erectile dysfunction—the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex—is a common problem. You’ve likely seen advertisements for erectile dysfunction treatment using herbs or supplements to “increase your sexual performance.” Could they work for you?
Introduction
Male erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence refers to incompetence to reach and retain adequate penile tumescence for sexual intercourse.
Over 152 million men globally suffer from ED The global issue of ED is anticipated to affect around 322 million of males by 2025 . Incompetence in accomplishing normal penile erection leads to depression, loss of self-confidence, socialization, and communication with the family . Also, ED leads to conflicts in the relationships that negatively influence the well-being of the couple ED led men to seek medical care. The fundamental workup for patients with ED includes a detailed history of family, medical, social, and sexual history, helping to disclose the underlying onset of ED. Family history includes diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
The medical history includes medications used for depression, mental illness, CVDs, and hypertension Social history should include history of smoking, drug use, alcohol consumption, diet, and exercise .A detailed sexual history includes open-ended questions that require the patient to elaborate more about sexual performance, previous and current relationships, and sexual health status
Erectile dysfunction supplements and other natural remedies have long been used in Chinese, African and other cultures. But unlike prescription medications for erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), tadalafil (Cialis, Adcirca) and avanafil (Stendra), erectile dysfunction herbs and supplements haven’t been well-studied or tested.
Some can cause side effects or interact with other medications. And the amount of the active ingredient can vary greatly from product to product.
Here’s a guide to erectile dysfunction herbs and supplements:
|
Herb or supplement |
Does it work? |
Safety |
|
DHEA |
Some evidence shows that dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) increases libido in women and helps erectile dysfunction in men. |
DHEA appears to be safe at low doses. It can cause acne. |
|
L-arginine |
Some evidence shows that taking high doses improves erectile dysfunction by stimulating blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. |
Side effects may include nausea, cramps and diarrhea. Don’t take L-arginine with sildenafil (Viagra). |
|
Ginseng |
One study of Panax ginseng showed it improved sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction. A cream preparation is used for premature ejaculation. |
Panax ginseng contains many active ingredients. It appears to be safe used on a short-term basis. Insomnia, headaches and vertigo are common side effects. |
|
Propionyl-L-carnitine |
Studies have shown that propionyl-L-carnitine combined with Viagra might improve erectile function better than sildenafil alone. |
Propionyl-L-carnitine is likely to be safe when used under medical supervision. |
|
Studied in people, positive results, risky |
||
|
Herb or supplement |
Does it work? |
Safety |
|
Yohimbe |
A number of clinical trials have shown that the primary component of this bark from an African tree can improve sexual dysfunction associated with selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used to treat depression. |
This herb has been linked to a number of side effects, including increased blood pressure, fast or irregular heartbeat, and anxiety. Yohimbe shouldn’t be used without a doctor’s supervision. |
|
Not studied in people or negative results |
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|
Herb or supplement |
Does it work? |
Safety |
|
Ginkgo |
Ginkgo has the potential to increase blood flow to the penis. But there’s no evidence of benefit for erectile dysfunction. |
Ginkgo might increase the risk of bleeding. |
|
Horny goat weed (epimedium) |
Substances in the leaves of this herb have been used to improve sexual performance, but the herb has not been studied in people. |
This herb might affect heart or breathing functions. |
Be cautious and talk to your doctor.
Just because a product claims to be natural doesn’t mean it’s safe. Many herbal remedies and dietary supplements can cause side effects and dangerous interactions when taken with certain medications. Talk to your doctor before you try an alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction — especially if you’re taking medications or you have a chronic health problem such as heart disease or diabetes.
Conclusion
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a multifaceted disorder entangled in various pathophysiologic mechanisms. The emergence of side effects associated with PDE inhibitors, alprostadil, penile prostheses, and hormonal replacement therapies has piqued researchers’ curiosity, propelling an exploration into medicinal plant species and their natural active constituents as potential remedies for ED. Amid the limited clinical trials assessing the safety and efficacy of these botanical interventions for erectile dysfunction treatment, animal experiments and in vitro studies unveil promising therapeutic effects. The outcomes from such investigations illuminate the potential of medicinal plants to offer novel and abundant solutions in the realm of erectile dysfunction treatment, paving the way for the development of groundbreaking drugs.