Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent issue among men, with around 5 percent of men aged 40 and over and up to 25 percent of men aged 65 and over facing long-term ED problems. There are numerous potential causes, including psychological factors, medication side effects, poor lifestyle habits, diseases such as diabetes and heart problems. Notably, ED can serve as an early warning sign for an underlying medical issue. There are several natural therapies available to support men’s sexual health, which can be used individually or in combination and don’t require a prescription. These plant-based herbal therapies provide antioxidants that can aid in repairing and rebuilding damaged tissues, thereby helping to increase libido, achieve a firm erection, and improve muscle relaxation and engorgement in the penis.
It is important to consult your healthcare provider before starting any natural therapies for ED to ensure there are no underlying medical problems and to identify potential risks based on your specific health condition. It’s also crucial to select products made by reputable doctors or scientists and to be cautious of miraculous claims made by infomercials.
Five Best Natural Therapies For ED
- Horny goat weed: Horny goat weed (Epimedium grandiflorum extract) is scientifically proven to improve erectile function. This herb contains icariin, which enhances nitric oxide activity, thus stimulating an erection. Studies have also shown that this herb can improve nerve damage in rat penises, showing promise for men with similar issues.
-
L-citrulline: L-citrulline is an amino acid transformed in the kidneys into L-arginine, needed for nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide relaxes the penis’s smooth muscles and aids in erection development. A study showed that half of the men with mild ED returned to normal erectile function after taking L-citrulline. This amino acid is considered safe and is well-tolerated by patients.
-
Rhodiola root: Rhodiola root (Rhodiola rosea) helps the body adapt to stress, promotes cellular health, maintains energy levels, and aids immune function. Rhodiola can help reduce sexual dissatisfaction stemming from ED. Studies have shown that this anti-fatigue root can improve focus and lower stress hormones’ response.
-
Pomegranate extract: Packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients, pomegranate extract (Punica granatum L) increases nitric oxide bioavailability, bolstering blood flow to the penis. Studies have demonstrated that pomegranate supplements can help men achieve firmer erections and enhance sexual performance.
-
Resveratrol: This potent antioxidant comes from Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum). Research has shown that resveratrol can improve nitric oxide circulation while boosting testosterone and sperm levels. It also helps combat cholesterol accumulation and prevents arterial changes that might lead to ED.
These herbal therapies can be found individually or in a combined, safe formulation called XY VGR. High doses of other herbs, such as Korean ginseng and Maca, can also improve sexual dysfunction. When using any of these therapies, it is essential to act responsibly and seek emergency care if experiencing an erection lasting more than four hours to prevent permanent damage.
Other Natural Ways To Help Erectile Function
In addition to the herbal therapies mentioned above, there are other natural lifestyle-related ways to help improve erectile function. Regular exercise and a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, plant protein, green tea, and omega-3 rich foods can greatly contribute to better sexual health. Avoiding smoking and saturated fat consumption will further benefit the heart and circulation, ultimately enhancing erectile function. Opting for natural therapies to address ED can benefit overall health and sexual function alongside providing the desired results.