Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a medical condition characterized by the inability to achieve and maintain an erection. ED is increasingly prevalent with age, affecting approximately 40 percent of men at 40 years of age and 70 percent at 70.
Most cases of ED are merely situational, meaning they can just be caused by fatigue, too much alcohol intake, or stress, and are therefore no cause for concern. There are those, however, that become persistent and can greatly affect quality of life.
The good news is ED is a highly treatable condition. Standard interventions for ED include prescription medications, penile implants, and surgery, but there are also all-natural treatment options, which many men go for.
Let’s explore a few natural remedies that have been backed by research to be effective at addressing erectile dysfunction.
Korean Red Ginseng
Korean red ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, is one of the best-known natural remedies for ED. It is an herb widely used in traditional Asian medicine.
Recent studies suggest that Panax ginseng has ginsenosides, which can help treat ED by enhancing libido, the duration of erection, and penile rigidity. Ginsenosides also have anti-inflammatory properties, which improve blood flow and can prevent or treat cardiovascular diseases.
Some people use creams that have ginseng as an active ingredient to treat premature ejaculation. Medical practitioners largely regard Korean red ginseng as safe, as long as it’s taken on a short-term basis. However, when taken in large doses, this herb might cause insomnia.
L-Arginine
L-arginine is an amino acid found in red meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products. L-arginine has been shown to have beneficial effects in people with high blood pressure, chest pains, and ED.
One study on the efficacy of L-arginine indicates that when combined with Pycnogenol (trade name for French maritime pine bark extract), it yields a remarkably high success rate. After a three-month treatment course, 92.5 percent of the 40 male subjects claimed to have achieved better erection.
Yohimbe
Mounting evidence based on several clinical trials have established that yohimbine, which is the primary component of yohimbe (a dietary supplement obtained from the bark of an African tree), can enhance sexual dysfunction associated with the intake of antidepressants. Yohimbine works by promoting nitric oxide, which leads to the dilation of blood vessels, and blocking the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which are responsible for preventing erection.
However, yohimbe has been linked to a number of adverse effects, such as elevated blood pressure, tachycardia (fast heartbeat), and anxiety, and therefore shouldn’t be taken without your doctor’s go-ahead.
It proves prudent to speak with your doctor about any of the remedies stated above to make sure it’s a safe solution for your erectile dysfunction, especially if you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes or heart disease. Being labeled “all-natural” doesn’t necessarily translate into safety. In fact, many herbal remedies and dietary supplements have side effects and potentially dangerous interactions when taken with certain medications.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment at NIVA Health
If you’re not sure as to which ED treatment is right for you, consult one of our regenerative medicine specialists here at Niva Health.
We offer an innovative solution for erectile dysfunction sans the need for surgery, penile implants, or medications: GAINSWave®, a revolutionary male sexual performance enhancement procedure that utilizes low-intensity sound wave therapy to treat erectile dysfunction. GAINSWave® is a safe and painless in-office procedure that can give you lasting results.
To learn more about GAINSWave®, schedule an appointment with one of our providers by calling (886) 377-5872. You may also fill out this online appointment form. We look forward to helping you restore your virility and your sex life!
