Natural therapies and lifestyle modifications may help relieve erectile dysfunction (ED), due to blood flow problems, anxiety over performance or other medical conditions. Before considering herbal remedies as treatment options for ED it's wise to speak to your physician first as some herbs may cause side effects or interact with prescription medication in ways not expected.
1. Mondia whitei:
Mondia whitei, commonly known as White's ginger or tonic root, is an amazing plant that is rapidly becoming popular due to its health-boosting benefits. A natural aphrodisiac that stimulates sexual desire while treating erectile dysfunction, it also offers other advantages like lowering blood pressure and improving sleep quality.
An indigenous plant native to Africa, this multipurpose herb can be found throughout much of Africa under a variety of names: Mkombela in Kenya; Kumundondo, Mundondo, Nlondo Bondo Molo Busio Cisoma from Angola to Tanzania and Mozambique as well as Mujimbaye Lilongwe Tshiluba Ndikombela Mungurawu from Zimbabwe - each species' roots emitting an aroma similar to vanilla and used as flavorants or drinks while providing antioxidants and essential nutrients.
Mondia whitei root extracts in both its aqueous and hexane forms have been demonstrated to promote copulatory behavior and erection among sexually inexperienced rats. The aqueous extract caused fictive ejaculation characterized by rhythmic contraction of bulbospongiosus muscles and expulsion of seminal plugs; its counterpart caused similar results though without altering intromission latency or frequency for this group of animals. Nitric oxide production by corpus cavernosum tissue may play a part; its widening blood vessels improve blood flow towards penis for medicine for nerve pain.
2. Ginkgo biloba:
Ginkgo biloba is an herbal remedy believed to aid with erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow. When combined with other herbs such as ginseng, its effectiveness may increase even further; however, always consult your physician prior to trying any herbal supplements as some could interfere with medications or cause side effects.
Ginkgo biloba contains flavonoids, which may help protect nerves and blood vessels in the body. Studies show that ginkgo biloba increases levels of the amino acid nitric oxide, helping dilate blood vessels and improve circulation, as well as inhibiting an enzyme that reduces its activity within blood vessel walls; this serves to boost vasodilator properties that may promote an erection.
One study demonstrated the efficacy of Ginkgo biloba in treating nerve-damage-caused ED, while another study demonstrated it could restore erectile function following radical prostatectomy. Furthermore, this herb has also proven its efficacy against PrIAPisM, an extreme form of Erectile Dysfunction caused by antipsychotic medication.
While herbal aphrodisiacs may offer temporary solutions to ED, more research needs to be conducted before any definitive conclusions can be drawn on their efficacy as an effective cure. Meanwhile, eating healthy diet including plenty of fish, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and beans is one way to lower risk of both ED and other medical issues.
3. Maritime pine bark:
Pine bark contains bioflavonoids, plant pigments that provide powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Studies have also demonstrated their capacity to lower production of enzymes responsible for breaking down cartilage - something which may improve joint health and ease discomfort for those suffering with osteoarthritis.
Marine pine bark may also help improve cardiovascular health, the system responsible for carrying oxygen and blood to all parts of your body. This is possible thanks to maritime pine bark extract's promotion of endothelium-produced nitric oxide production - this chemical helps relax blood vessels for better circulation.
Studies have shown that maritime pine bark extract can help lower both blood pressure and blood sugar levels, providing benefits to those with diabetes. Since this supplement relaxes the arteries, it is crucial to monitor both measures regularly if you are taking medication for high blood pressure or diabetes.
Prelox, a proprietary blend of French maritime pine bark extract (Pinus pinaster) and L-arginine, has been scientifically demonstrated to increase sperm count and enhance sexual function among men with erectile dysfunction. Prelox was even awarded a unani medicine for high cholesterol.
4. Horny goat weed:
Horny goat weed (Epimedium or yin yang huo) has long been touted to enhance sexual function and boost libido. It contains chemicals that may improve blood flow while acting as mild estrogen and has antioxidant properties that may prevent cardiovascular disease and reduce osteoporosis risks in postmenopausal women; however, not enough high-quality studies have been completed to verify these claims.
Horny goat weed has long been used in traditional medicine as a tonic, aphrodisiac, and antirheumatic agent. The herb contains flavonoids, lignans, ionones and phenol glycosides with antiinflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral and other healthful properties; furthermore horny goat weed also contains several chemical compounds known as PDE5 inhibitors including icariin that may help treat erectile dysfunction in castrated rats - further research will need to take place here before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
Horny goat weed's other benefits include lowering cholesterol and improving bone health, protecting against cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration with its antioxidant properties, phytoestrogens which act similarly to estrogen may provide relief in menstrual problems and postmenopausal symptoms and even helping alleviate postmenopausal symptoms.
Horny goat weed can be purchased as an herbal supplement, however it's wise to consult with your herbs for low sperm count to beginning use as it could interact with medications such as blood thinners.