Impotence is a troubling condition which often worsens as men age. Also called erectile dysfunction (ED), impotence can be caused by a number of underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, and can be treated by a physician. If these diseases have been eliminated as a cause for ED, there are other traditional prescription medications available. Still, some men might wish to try herbal treatment for impotence.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba may work to activate the release of nitric oxide from blood vessel linings. This can lead to the relaxation of blood vessels resulting in increased blood flow to the penis. Because Gingko can increase the activity of certain medications such as anticoagulants, consult a physician or pharmacist if you take other medications. Gingko is readily available at health food stores, groceries and drugstores with natural supplement sections.
Yohimbine
Yohimbine herbal supplements might help impotence by increasing blood flow to, and reducing blood flow out of, the penis. Using it in conjunction with a low-fat diet might help as dietary fat decreases absorption and activity. Yohimbine may worsen conditions such as cardiac diseases, mood disorders and kidney disease. It also should not be taken with medications for ED such as sildenafil. Pre-existing health conditions or other medications should be reviewed by a physician before yohimbine is taken. Yohimbine supplements can be obtained at health food stores and some drug and grocery stores with large natural supplement sections. A prescription form of yohimbine is available, as well.
Ginseng
Panax ginseng, particularly the Asian variety but also to some extent, the American variety, has been used to treat impotence. Ginseng is known to contain phytohormones which may act to increase testosterone activity in men, particularly in those who have low levels of testosterone, such as the elderly. It may also act to stimulate cell production and promote healing in the sex organs. Ginseng can interact with some medications, so consultation with a pharmacist or physician is recommended if any other medications are being used. Ginseng supplements are available at health food stores and some grocery and drug stores with large health supplement sections.
Damiana
Damiana has been used in Central America as an aphrodisiac and may work to increase the stability of an erection during intercourse. It should not be used by those with anemia or chronic bleeding such as ulcers. Damiana will most likely need to be obtained from a health food or natural supplement store but may be available at drug stores with large herbal selections.
Muira Puama
Muira puama is a South American herb nicknamed "potency wood" in Brazil. It has been used to increase both libido and erectile strength. Muira puama will generally need to be purchased from a health food or natural supplement store with a large herbal section.
Fo-Ti
Fo-Ti is the North American name for the Chinese herbal remedy He Shou Wu, (sometimes spelled Ho Shu Wu). It has been used for many years in Asia to promote sexual desire, longevity and promote general youthfulness in elderly men. It may work by acting as a phytohormone to replace falling testosterone levels. Only supplements containing processed or cured Fo-Ti should be used as uncured product may promote diarrhea. Fo-Ti is available at health food stores or may be obtained from an Asian supplement retailer under the Chinese name.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Erectile Dysfunction - Herbs
- The Prescription for Herbal Healing, Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, 2002
