The male reproductive system consists of a number of organs that work in harmony to produce viable sperm and transfer it to a host. This process requires energy, hormones, blood flow, an erection, and ultimately, ejaculation. Certain diseases and conditions, such as prostate enlargement, weak or clogged blood vessels and hormone deficiencies, impede the male reproductive process. Herbal remedies have long been used to reduce prostate symptoms, enhance energy, increase libido, strengthen blood vessels and raise levels of hormones.
Saw Palmetto
Prostate enlargement is common in elderly American men and causes urinary symptoms as well as sexual dysfunction. Saw palmetto extract, made from small palm tree berries, is a traditional Native American remedy used to reduce non-cancerous prostate growth. According to "The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine," saw palmetto inhibits the synthesis of DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, which is a hormone that stimulates the growth and reproduction of prostate cells.
Winter Cherry
Known as ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine, winter cherry is an herbal remedy used to treat male reproductive problems, such as lack of stamina, reduced libido, premature ejaculation and weak erections, as cited in "The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs."
Salab Mishri Tincture
Salab mishri, an East Indian herb often used in homeopathic tinctures, is used to strengthen blood flow to the penis, allowing for strong erections. Salab mishri is also reputed to increase sperm count, heighten sexual stamina and negate premature ejaculation.
Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract is rich in proanthocyanidins, which strengthen arteries and veins, preventing deterioration and blood leakage, according to "The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements and Herbs." Grape seed extract is commonly used to treat chronic venous insufficiency, which can damage the valves in veins and reduce the strength of erections.
Angelica Oil
For those experiencing premature ejaculation, Angelica plant roots can be crushed and made into oils and creams, which are then applied to the penis prior to intercourse. Angelica produces numbness and reduces sensitivity, similar to topical anesthetics, which can be helpful for those who get quickly over-stimulated by sexual contact.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris extract, derived from a common flowering plant that grows in Eastern Europe and Asia, has the ability to increase production and secretion of testosterone in men, according to "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine." Testosterone hormone is intimately linked to male sexual characteristics, including libido and sexual stamina.
Licorice Root
Licorice root extract has the ability to increase production and secretion of adrenaline in people who consume it, although its effects are short-term because the body adapts to its stimulation quickly, as cited in "Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica." Adrenaline mobilizes the body for action, including sending more blood toward muscles. Licorice root also balances blood sugar levels, which steadies the energy supply for activities such as sex.
References
- "The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine"; Simon Mills; 1994
- "The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs: A Contemporary Introduction and Useful Manual for the World's Oldest Healing System"; Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa; 2009
- "The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, and Herbs"; Nicola Reavley; 1999
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica"; Dan Bensky et al.; 2004
