According to Mayo Clinic, erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is a common problem in men of all ages. Chronic illnesses, stress, poor circulation, depression, mid-life hormone fluctuations and relationship problems can all affect a man's ability to maintain a firm erection. While prescription drugs are available to treat erectile dysfunction, some men turn to herbs as a natural, more affordable alternative. Some herbs like tribulus and tonkgat ali are associated with few or no side effects. Others--including the popular herb yohimbe--can cause serious drug interactions and other unanticipated problems. Mayo Clinic recommends consulting a physician before taking any herbal supplement.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe naturally enhances blood-flow to the genitals and enables sexual vitality. Yohimbe bark is the ultimate source of yohimbine hydrochloride, a prescription treatment for erectile dysfunction. Despite yohimbe's effectiveness, many herbalists recommend against its routine use because it is associated with many serious side effects, including anxiety and heart palpitations.
Ginseng
A popular component of traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng root enables the body to adapt to physical or emotional stress with fewer affects on libido, mood or sleep patterns. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, preliminary studies have supported ginseng's traditional use as a male aphrodisiac. However, more studies are needed to prove this effect.
Horny Goat Weed
Horny goat weed is reputed to enhance genital bloodflow by increasing the amount of nitric oxide in the bloodstream. According to tradition, horny goat weed was originally used by goat-herders and shepherds to encourage livestock to breed.
Tribulus Terrestris
According to a comprehensive review published in the journal "Phytomedicine", the tradititional aphrodisiac tribulus terrestris effectively improves sexual response, sexual interest and testosterone levels in monkeys, rabbits and rats.
Tongkat Ali
Tongkat ali has been used for millenia as a treatment for erectile dysfunction. Several Malaysian studies involving rats, published in the peer-reviewed journal "Experimental Animals", have suggested that tongkat ali effectively increases testosterone levels and sexual interest. This effect has even been documented in rats that have been castrated.
