Erectile dysfunction is a condition that affects a man’s ability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for sex.
The condition can affect men at any age, but according to the American Academy of Family Physicians, erectile dysfunction (ED) is most common when a man is 75 years or older.
Recent innovations in medical treatments mean that there are now more medications available to reduce ED. However, some men prefer to take herbal supplements as an alternative.
Many herbs show potential to be effective in improving men’s sexual function, but little evidence actually exists to support the use of any herbal medication in the treatment of ED. People should always exercise caution when taking any form of herbal supplementation.
The United States government do not monitor herbs. There is no consistency in the strength or purity of the herbs sold, so they may be contaminated or mislabeled. Some herbs may interact with medications taken, so anyone considering taking herbs should talk to a doctor or pharmacist about potential problems.
What is it:
Share on Pinterest DHEA supplements mimic the action of a natural steroid hormone.
The dosages for DHEA vary from person to person. Some men take between 20 and 75 milligrams (mg) for about 6 months, while others may take between 100 to 400 mg for up to 8 weeks.
How does it work:
Research:Urology
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Research:The Journal of Sexual Medicine
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According to Columbia University, ginkgo may be effective in helping treat sexual dysfunction that has been caused by taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), medications prescribed to treat depression.
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Other side effect risks include nausea, headache, stomach upset, and mouth irritation.
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Research:
In one study published in the Journal of Sexual and Marital Therapy
After treatment for 3 months, 92.5 percent of the 40 men enrolled who experienced ED reported achieving a normal erection.
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What is it:Panax ginseng
How does it work:
One theory is that it influences hormones responsible for achieving an erection. Another is that it promotes blood flow through increasing the amount of nitric oxide.
Research:British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
However, human studies usually have a small sample size, which makes it difficult for researchers to draw firm conclusions on the benefits of red ginseng.
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When to see a doctor about ED
Men should not be afraid to see their doctor about ED if they experience it.
There are many medications, lifestyle changes, and even counseling that could help a man reduce the incidence of ED. If he wishes to, and has discussed the treatment with his doctor, he may even wish to take an herbal supplement to reduce ED.
A man should see his doctor about his ED if he has experienced changes in sexual desire, changes in erectile function after taking a new medication, or other changes in sexual function.
The condition is very treatable. Men should never be afraid to talk to their doctor about ED as sometimes the condition can indicate an underlying medical condition that should also be treated.
Many potential causes of ED exist. These include:
- anxiety
- atherosclerosis, a condition that causes a buildup of plaque in the arteries
- chronic kidney disease
- depression
- diabetes
- heart and blood pressure-related conditions
- history of injury to the penis or surrounding organs
- stress
- taking certain medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, appetite suppressants, and tranquilizers
Achieving and maintaining an erection requires several things to happen. These include sensory stimulation, increased blood flow, increased blood pressure in the penis, and the contraction of muscles in the penis. If one or more of these steps are interrupted, ED can occur.
Last medically reviewed on February 27, 2017