Three Natural Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction
What the Science Suggests
Disclaimer: Your healthcare provider is the best source of health and medical information. Articles written by UPGUYS are informed by peer-reviewed studies and research, as well as governmental health authorities and agencies — but they cannot replace advice from a healthcare professional. Talk to your healthcare provider about any physical or mental health concerns you might have.
In a recent article, we took a look at some of the potential risks associated with over-the-counter (OTC) erectile dysfunction male-enhancement medicine. Canada’s national health authority has highlighted dozens of unregulated products that purport to act as sexual enhancers for men. Unlisted ingredients making their way into these products, and the unauthorized, unregulated nature of the facilities in which they’re produced and packaged are both cause for concern for anyone considering taking them.
However, the decision of how to combat erectile dysfunction (ED) is a personal one. One that should be made in consultation with your doctor and after you’ve done adequate research on all available treatment options. In addition to prescription medication, there are herbal or natural remedies that alone, or in conjunction with, other treatments can serve as a boost to your sexual performance.
Korean Red Ginseng
Ginseng has featured prominently in traditional Eastern medicine for thousands of years. As a treatment for erectile dysfunction, legend has it that Chinese Emperor Shen-Nung first used Korean Red Ginseng (also known as Panax Ginseng and Chinese Ginseng) nearly 5000 years ago. More recently, Western researchers have sought to determine if the Emperor was actually onto something.
A 2007 study published in the Asian Journal of Andrology found that Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) can be an effective alternative to other more invasive approaches to ED — such as penile implants. Another study systematically reviewed seven randomized control tests and found that there was suggestive evidence that KRG was effective in treating ED. While neither study claimed conclusive evidence of the root’s effectiveness in improving erectile function, it does appear to be useful for some men.
L-arginine
L-arginine is an amino-acid produced naturally in the body; it can also be found in products like fish, poultry and red-meat. The body converts L-arginine into nitric oxide, which can serve to relax and widen blood vessels to improve blood flow — an important mechanism also found in prescription ED medications.
Some studies have shown that L-arginine can have a positive impact on erectile function. One study found that 31 percent of men reported significant improvements in this area after taking a high-daily dose (5g) over six-weeks. Another study found that 80 percent of participants benefited in increases to sexual ability after two months of taking L-arginine with pycnogenol (a product made from tree bark).
Acupuncture
There is some evidence that acupuncture in conjunction with the commonly prescribed erectile dysfunction medicine sildenafil can improve erectile function. One study showed that 21 percent of ED patients had improved erections after undergoing acupuncture. Another study, albeit with a relatively small sample-size, also found evidence that acupuncture treatment can be useful in this domain. To be sure, there is conflicting evidence on the ability of acupuncture to improve erectile function. But given the safety and other benefits of acupuncture, it could be considered (with the advice of your doctor) in the treatment of ED.
Doctor knows best
Treatments for erectile dysfunction and low-libido have been sought-after and developed for millenia. Whether it be ancient herbal remedies, foods that act as aphrodisiacs, or more recent prescription medication, ED is an issue that has certainly garnered a lot of attention over the centuries. The good news in all this is that there are many treatment options for sexual performance issues like ED.
Before trying out any of the methods listed above, visit your doctor and tell them the symptoms you’re experiencing. Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue, or it can be addressed by making lifestyle changes to include healthier foods and more exercise. Either way, your doctor is the best person to provide you with all your options for treatment.
