Erectile dysfunction is a common problem that mostly affects men over the age of 45. The prospect of having a firmer, longer lasting erection has made enhancement products popular among men of all ages. This has made male enhancement products a multi-million dollar industry for companies across the globe. When it comes to male enhancement products, there really there are five main ingredients that are included in most brands.
Horny Goat Weed
Horny goat weed, also known as epimedium, is a plant that is grown in parts of Asia and Europe. Horny goat weed is believed to help as a male enhancement product due to its effects on the neurotransmitters in the brain, more specifically serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. The effects of these neurotransmitters from the weed may be able to increase libido in men. Horny goat weed also has the flavinoid icariin, which according to studies done at the Department of Urology, at Peking University, has the ability to help with erectile dysfunction.
L-arginine
L-arginine is another common ingredient found in many enhancement products. L-arginine is a natural amino acid that is essential in assisting the action of nitric oxide in the body. This nitric oxide then targets the muscles, causing the muscle to relax around the blood vessels of the penis. This allows more blood to enter the penis, causing a firmer erection.
Tribulus Terrestris Extract
Tribulus terrestris extract can also be found in many male enhancement products. Within Tribulus terrestris is an active ingredient called protodioscin. Protodioscin is common precursor for the production of the sexual hormone testosterone. Using the extract may help balance out the levels of testosterone in the body, helping to increase libido.
Tongkat Ali
Tongkat ali may also be found in male enhancement products. Derived from a Southeast Asian tree, tongkat ali is also known as "Asian Viagra" due to its abilities to increase libido in men. Its libido increasing properties are believed to occur because of the tree's effects on increasing testosterone in the body. This has made it a popular alternative to steroids for muscle growth as well.
Cnidium
Cnidium is an herb that is also popularly found in male enhancement products. One active part of cnidium is called osthol. Osthol has been shown to help relax the muscles around the blood vessels of the penis, similarly to L-arginine, causing improved blood flow to the penis. This allows for a harder, longer lasting erection.
