Men's health concerns can be anything from prostate problems to erectile dysfunction. There are many pharmaceutical formulas on the market to address these concerns, but there are those that would prefer to attempt treatment with herbs. Before beginning any herbal remedy program, men should check with a doctor or healthcare official to make sure that it is right for them.
Yohimbe Bark Extract
Yohimbine is the chemical from the yohimbe tree and is the prescription drug active ingredient that addresses male impotence. Yohimbe bark extract is also used for the lessening sexual drive exhibited when taking some antidepressants. Yohimbine is in yohimbe bark extract but not in as high of concentration as the prescription drug. Allergies can occur with yohimbe. Side effects include genital pain, dizziness, agitation, headache, painful urination, skin flushing and nervousness. Yohimbine side effects include panic attacks, insomnia, anxiety, irritability and excitability.
Pygeum
Pygeum, or botanically known as either Prunus africanum or Pygeum africanum, has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal bark. It has treated bladder disorders, urinary disorders and benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). BPH is an enlarged prostate. Medline Plus shows clinical trials state improvement in BPH symptoms, including lessening urinary frequency, urinary hesitancy and pain associated with BPH. Pygeum is used more in Europe while saw palmetto is used more in the United States for BPH symptoms. There can be allergies with this herb. Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation and stomach upset.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto, or Serenoa repens, has been used historically as an expectorant and antiseptic. According to Medline Plus, saw palmetto works on the symptoms of BPH. It lessened the nighttime urination frequency and improved the quality of life. Urinary flow was also improved. Effectiveness was on par with the prescription drug Proscar and had fewer side effects. A few allergic reactions are reported for saw palmetto including swelling of the throat and difficulty breathing. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, bad breath and stomach upset. Also reported by Medline Plus was difficulty with erections and testicular discomfort reported in some of the males studied on saw palmetto.
Member Comments