Often referred to as impotence, erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition amongst many men. ED affects the way a man can gain or maintain a hard on during sex. Symptoms to look out for can include a lack of sexual desire or libido.
If you’ve been suffering from erectile dysfunction for a number of weeks or months, it’s more than likely a GP will diagnose you with ED. Affecting as many as 30 million men in the United States alone, it’s a lot more common than you think.
Typically, you might be given prescription medications, offered a vacuum pump, implants or even surgery – but you don’t need to go to extreme lengths to gain an erection. Studies have shown that there are natural options available to improve the symptoms of ED.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get that wood back.
Acupuncture
Although the research here is a little mixed, there have been positive results for acupuncture’s treatment of ED. One study – in 1999 – showed that acupuncture worked well as a natural ED treatment. It claimed to show improvements in the strength of erections and restore sexual activity in 39% of participants.
In a later study in 2003, researchers found that 21% of ED patients undergoing acupuncture showed improvement in their erection quality. While other studies have shown conflicting results, like any treatment, there is every chance it may work for you.
There is plenty of room for further research in acupuncture as a nature ED treatment. However, we always recommend you seek a licensed acupuncturist if you do choose this treatment.
L-arginine
Naturally present in your body, L-arginine helps to make nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is essential for getting hard. Nitric oxide relaxes blood vessels and facilitates healthy blood flow where you need it most.
There has been plenty of research carried out into the effects of L-arginine and erectile dysfunction. In one study alone, 31% of men with ED experienced considerable improvements in sexual function when taking 5 grams of L-arginine daily.
Meanwhile, another study showed incredible results after combining L-arginine with pycnogenol (a plant product derived from tree bark). After two months, 80% of participants saw their sexual function restored. A further 92% saw the same results after three months.
In one placebo-controlled study, a combination of L-arginine and other medications were well-tolerated, effective and safe for the treatments of mild-to-moderate erectile dysfunction.
Yohimbe
Extracted from the bark of the African Yohimbe tree, this supplement has shown to have a positive impact on ED. Some studies have shown improvements in sexual performance when participants have been given Yohimbe.
However, there is definitely more research to be done. The American Urological Association aren’t supportive of Yohimbe as an ED treatment, due to its lack of medical evidence proving results. There are some side effects associated with taking Yohimbe, however. These include increased blood pressure and heart rate, tremor and irritability.
If you do decide to give Yohimbe a go, consult a medical professional before doing so.
DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands. The hormone itself can be converted to both estrogen and testosterone. Scientists create this natural ED remedy from soy and wild yam.
The Massachusetts male aging study showed that low levels of DHEA were commonly found in men with ED. Further studies revealed that men with ED were more likely to achieve a hard on when taking 50mg DHEA daily over a six month period.
In more recent research, DHEA has been recognised as an erectile dysfunction treatment for men with concurrent diabetes. Erectile dysfunction is common in men with concurrent diabetes due to hormonal problems and the impact on blood flow.
Panax ginseng
Often referred to as natural viagra – or herbal viagra – Panax ginseng (red ginseng) has a considerable amount of research behind it. In 2008, researchers evaluated seven studies examining red ginseng and erectile dysfunction. During these studies, dosages ranged from 600 to 1,000mg three times daily. Their conclusion? That there was “suggestive evidence for the effectiveness of red ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.”
It doesn’t stop there. More recent research is reviewing how red ginseng works as a natural cure for ED. Ginsenosides are just one of many key elements in Panax ginseng extract worth recognising that can improve your hard on.
The role of Panax ginseng seems to be most effective for those with metabolic syndrome or high lipids in the blood. With benefits including improved blood flow and anti-inflammatory properties, this herb may be a natural ED treatment.
Rhodiola Rosea
Although there is plenty of room for further research, one study has shown positive results for Rhodiola Rosea and ED. The study showed that 26 out of 35 men were given 150 to 200mg daily for three months – resulting in notably improved sexual function.
The herb itself has shown to boost energy and reduce fatigue. However, in relation to ED, more research is needed.
Other possible natural ED remedies
As well as the natural ED remedies mentioned above, there are other alternatives. These include zinc, the herb ashwagandha (often called Indian ginseng) and ginkgo biloba. However, there are still studies to be done in these areas.
Speak to a medical professional
Before starting an ED treatment of your own, it’s important to check with a doctor if you have symptoms of erectile dysfunction. This is because there can be underlying health problems associated with ED symptoms, such as high cholesterol or even heart disease.
Upon initial discussion with your doctor, they may advise some changes that can improve both your heart health and ED. These can include losing weight, lowering your cholesterol or medication to unclog your blood vessels.
If no other health issues are found in relation to your ED, your doctor will most likely prescribe a common ED treatment. If you’d rather opt for a natural ED remedy – discuss your options with your doctor.
No matter which route you decide to take, always remember that erectile dysfunction is very common – and treatable. There are a range of erectile dysfunction remedies around, so it may take a little trial and error to find one that suits you.
It’s important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration do not regulate quality, strength, purity, or packaging of herbs. Be sure to source any herbs from somewhere you trust.
Lifestyle and diet
If you’re looking for natural ED cures, you may first need to look in the direction of your lifestyle and diet. Making changes in these areas can help ease ED symptoms. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and exercising regularly can help to improve your performance in the bedroom. If you smoke or drink alcohol regularly, you may need to curb your intake.
Your diet can impact your erection, too. For natural ED treatment, take a look at our recent blog on foods to improve your sexual performance.
