Herbal Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction or impotency is the inability of men to achieve and sustain erection for sexual intercourse. As many 18 million Americans aged between 40 and 70 years suffer from erectile dysfunction. Most of the time, they are hesitant about seeking help because either they feel embarrassed or think that there really is no problem at all and that it is just all in the mind. Well, these “shy guys” are missing out on a variety of treatment options for erectile dysfunction after all.
Herbal Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction
Charaka, one of the prime contributors to the science of Ayurveda, has given some herbal remedy solutions for erectile dysfunction. Charaka has explained through his works that herbal remedies contain aphrodisiacs that help in increasing the erection time, preventing premature ejaculation and in hardening the penis.
Though researches haven’t been that encouraging, some herbal remedies for erectile dysfunction are listed here below:
- DHEA (supplement)
- Asian ginseng
- Ginkgo biloba
- Propionyl-L-carnitine
- Damiana (used in Mexico as a male aphrodisiac)
- Saw Palmetto
- L-arginine (an amino acid which is contained in dairy products, fish, poultry and meat)
Experts opine that a doctor’s recommendation for taking such herbal supplements for erectile dysfunction is a must.
Causes for Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is often a result of damage caused to the veins, arteries, fibrous tissues and muscles that help in erection. Erection itself is an undisputed effort of the brain which sends impulses to the spinal cord down towards the penis. Any malfunction midway can make erection difficult.
It is in response to the impulses that the muscles, arteries, veins and fibrous tissues are filled with blood in and around the corpora and cavernosa (two chambers within the penis which are filled with spongy tissues).
Some causes for erectile dysfunctions are listed below:
- Excessive exposure to smoking
- Increased exposure to alcohol
- Diabetes
- Atherosclerosis
- Kidney problems
- Psychological or emotional problems – stress, depression, etc
- Continued medication
When is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?
Experts opine that though it is normal for men to get an erection occasionally, if a man seems to be having a problem sustaining one for more 25% of the time then he must visit a urologist (a doctor that specializes in urethra, penis, kidneys, prostate and bladder function). In addition, is erection is a persistent problem lasting for almost 2 months or so now, then a doctors advice is to be sought immediately.
Tips to Prevent Erectile Dysfunction
Some basic tips to avoid erectile dysfunction are listed below:
- Exercise on a regular basis
- Limit high cholesterol or fatty foods
- Drink less
- Quit smoking
- Include vitamins and minerals in your diet – vitamin C, E, zinc
Researchers also feel that clinic trials have not been enough to prove the benefits and safety of herbal remedies for erectile dysfunction. For instance, Yohimbe (found in West Africa), a very popular sexual stimulant in the market when taken in excess can lead to hypertension or heart failures. So consult a doctor before taking herbal supplements for treating erectile dysfunction.
Caution: Avoid more than one herbal preparation and always be careful about the brands you select. In case of any side effects like vomiting, skin rashes, diarrhea or increased heart beat, stop taking the herbal supplement.