Male enhancement pills, prescriptions and exercises are a large industry, as erectile dysfunction and other male difficulties are a common occurrence, impeding a man's sex life and causing frustration and anxiety. Difficulty maintaining an erection on occasion is not necessarily a cause for concern, according to the Mayo Clinic, but may have some men thinking about male enhancement nevertheless.
Effects of Herbs
Herbal remedies for male enhancement have been used in Chinese medicine and other cultures for thousands of years. These herbs are thought to aid male enhancement by increasing sexual desire, performance and drive, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Yohimbe, L-arginine and Spanish fly are some examples. Yohimbe is a popular herb used in the name-brand drug Viramax. Yohimbe may cause nausea, insomnia, dizziness and nervousness. More serious effects include increased blood pressure, heart rate and kidney failure. L-arginine is another popular aphrodisiac that may cause allergic reactions, gastrointestinal problems and lowered blood pressure. Among the most widely used herbs for male enhancement is Spanish fly (cantharides). Made from dried beetles, the herb is highly praised as an aphrodisiac. Side effects include infection, scarring or burning of the mouth and, most severely, life-threatening complications. While herbs may be tempting to try and readily available, they are not safe for every man.
Effects of Prescriptions
Prescriptions for male enhancement include drugs such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra. These drugs work in similar ways to treat erectile dysfunction. They enhance the effects of a chemical that relaxes the muscles of the penis, increasing the blood flow necessary for erection, according to the Mayo Clinic. Physical stimulation, however, is still needed to induce the erection, as the medication does not automatically create erections. These drugs are proven effective in men with varying sexual difficulties.
Effects of Exercises
Male enhancement exercises are said to help men increase the size of their penis, though scientific evidence does not support these claims. Various exercises such as weight training are used to apply tension to the penis, leading to cellular renewal and growth, according to MaleEnhancement.org. Ballooning and jelqing are other touted methods. Ballooning relates to premature ejaculation and may help men increase stamina. Jelqing is used to increase the size of the penis. It is an ancient practice that may affect male enhancement if used routinely, though is more likely to stretch the penis than "grow" it.
