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Herbal Viagra and Herbs to Treat Erectile Dysfunction Do They Work

Medically reviewed by Monisha Bhanote MD, FCAP, ABOIM, CCMS, YMTS — By Kimberly Holland and The Healthline Editorial Team — Updated on September 29, 2022Share on PinterestStocksy/Sophia HsinWe include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. “Herbal” or “natural Viagra” is a name given to a variety of supplements by their manufacturers. They’re sold for the purpose of improving erectile function or sexual desire in people with a penis. Some of these supplements contain ingredients that may be beneficial for erectile function and erectile dysfunction (ED). However, despite labeling, you may not know what is in the supplements you’re taking. Many of these supplements contain hidden ingredients or contaminants. Unlike prescription medications for ED such as Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra, these supplements are not Food and Drug Administration approved for ED. The FDA also doesn’t test supplements for purity or quality like it does for drugs. Supplements have not gone through rigorous human trials, either.

What causes erectile dysfunction

ED is often a symptom, instead of a condition. An erection is a result of complex multisystem processes in the body. Sexual arousal involves interaction between your:penisnervous systemmuscleshormonesemotions A health condition like diabetes or stress can affect these parts and their functions in the body, causing ED. Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) is a leading cause of ED, especially in men over 50. Physical or psychological? Take the erection self-test

Herbal treatments for ED

According to claims from some supplement manufacturers and health food store owners, certain herbal supplements and health foods may increase sexual potency with fewer side effects than prescribed medications. They may also be less expensive. Herbal treatments for ED have little scientific research to back up the claims, and there’s no uniform method for testing their effectiveness. Most results from human trials rely on self-evaluation, which can be subjective and difficult to interpret. Always talk with your doctor before trying supplements, as they may interact with medications you’re already taking. Many supplements are also known to interact negatively with alcohol. Your doctor will be able to make recommendations based on your condition. You should also talk with a licensed or certified herbal medicine specialist, such as a doctor of oriental medicine (DOM) or acupuncturist, before taking certain supplements. They’ll be able to help you choose the most appropriate supplement and dosage for you.

Is herbal viagra dangerous

In some instances, products labeled as “herbal” or “natural Viagra” may help ED by relaxing the walls of blood vessels, which improves blood flow. But since the dosage of the herbs they contain is not prescribed, these supplements can cause very low blood pressure to occur. This can be dangerous, especially for people who take prescription nitrate. There’s also the risk of ingesting dangerous, unlisted ingredients or contaminants that can cause gastric distress and other side effects. In some instances, herbal Viagra has been found to contain undisclosed prescription medications and substances like amphetamines. These may cause side effects or interactions with drugs your doctor has prescribed to you. For example, the FDA has issued a warning against Herb Viagra because it was found to contain undisclosed sildenafil. Sildenafil is the active ingredient in prescription Viagra. That said, there are herbs that may have benefits for reducing or eliminating ED. Read on to find out about specific herbs which may work for you.

Types of herbs that may help with viagra

The search for a cure for erectile dysfunction (ED) dates back way before the introduction of Viagra in the 1990s. Natural aphrodisiacs, from ground rhinoceros horn to chocolate, have long been used to increase libido, potency, or sexual pleasure. These natural remedies are also popular because they’re said to have fewer side effects than prescribed medications. Research shows that certain herbs have varying degrees of success for ED. These herbs include:Panax ginsengmacayohimbineginkgoMondia whitei Read on to discover what studies say about these herbs and how they might treat ED.

Panax ginseng a Chinese and Korean herb

Panax ginseng has a 2,000-year history in Chinese and Korean medicine as a tonic for health and longevity. People take the roots of this ginseng, also called Korean red ginseng, for treating ED symptoms. While studies are limited, the results of a 2008 research review suggest that red ginseng may improve ED. But researchers also acknowledge that more studies with larger participant pools are still required. In addition to possibly treating ED symptoms, taking P. ginseng may improve:staminaconcentrationstressoverall well-being It could also improve:penile rigiditygirthduration of erectionimproved libidooverall satisfaction Panax ginseng works as an antioxidant, releasing nitric oxide (NO) that helps erectile functions. Some people use a P. ginseng cream for premature ejaculation. This plant is considered a safe treatment but should only be used on a short-term basis (6 to 8 weeks). Your doctor can confirm the length of time you should use it with you. The most common side effect of ginseng is insomnia. Ginseng can interact negatively with alcohol, caffeine, and some medications. Ask your doctor about how often you can take Panax ginseng if you’re planning to use it. Shop for P. ginseng supplements.

Maca the root vegetable from Peru

For overall health benefits, maca is a great addition to your diet. Maca, or Lepidium meyenii, is rich in:amino acidsiodineironmagnesium There are three types of maca: red, black, and yellow. Black maca may alleviate stress, which can cause ED. The health claims for maca are not supported by scientific evidence. Eating this root may, however, have a placebo effect. Men who took 3 grams of maca per day for 8 weeks reported an improvement in sexual desire more often than men who didn’t take it. While maca is generally safe, studies do show elevated blood pressure in people with heart conditions who took 0.6 grams of maca per day. Shop for maca supplements.

Yohimbine a West African tree bark

Yohimbine comes from the bark of a West African evergreen tree. People have used yohimbine as a treatment for ED because it’s believed to:activate the penile nerves to release more NOwiden the blood vessels to increase blood flow in the penisstimulate the pelvic nerve and boost adrenaline supplyincrease sexual desireprolong erections Studies on the effects of yohimbine have mixed results. One meta-analysis of multiple studies found that yohimbine was effective for ED only when combined with other treatments. Another study found that 16 out of 29 men were able to reach orgasm and ejaculate after completing their treatment. A combination of yohimbine and L-arginine is shown to significantly improve erectile function in people with ED. L-arginine is an amino acid that helps expand blood vessels. It’s regarded as safe and effective for ED but can cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Avoid taking L-arginine with Viagra, nitrates, or any high blood pressure medications. If you have hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or renal/liver disease and you would like to take yohimbine, discuss with your doctor so that they can monitor you. While some tests have shown positive results, yohimbine’s adrenaline effects can cause side effects that include:headachessweatingagitationhypertensioninsomnia Talk with your doctor before taking yohimbine, especially if you’re also taking antidepressants or stimulant medications. Shop for yohimbine supplements.

Mondia whitei roots of an African plant

Mondia whitei, also known as White’s ginger, is particularly popular in Uganda, where medicinal plants are more common than medication. It’s used to increase libido and manage low sperm count. Studies suggest that M. whitei may be similar to Viagra in that it increases the following:sexual desirehuman sperm motilitytestosterone levelsnitric oxide production and erections

Ginkgo biloba herb from a Chinese tree

Ginkgo biloba may increase blood flow to the penis. An animal study found that ginkgo biloba helped improve erectile function in rats after a nerve injury. While more research is needed, researchers speculate that this herb may be beneficial for restoring erectile function after surgery for prostate cancer. Another study saw improvement in sexual function in men who were on antidepressant medication. This is why researchers believe that ginkgo may be effective for men who are experiencing ED due to medication. But some studies also report no improvement or differences after taking ginkgo. This may mean that ginkgo is better for ED management than as a treatment or cure. In the study where men reported a positive response, the participants took 40- or 6- milligram capsules twice a day for 4 weeks. They were also on antidepressant medication. Talk with your doctor if you’re considering ginkgo supplements. It can cause stomach upset. Your risk of bleeding may increase, especially if you’re on blood thinning medications like warfarin. Shop for ginkgo supplements.

Other herbs believed to treat ED

These herbs have shown a pro-erectile effect in animals like rabbits and rats:horny goat weed, or epimedium: This herb acts as a natural phosphodiesterase inhibitor to dilate the blood vessels in the penis, much like prescription medications to treat ED. musli, or Chlorophytum borivilianum: This herb is believed to have an aphrodisiac effect to increase sexual desire, as well as anti-inflammatory effects that help to reduce inflammation. saffron, or Crocus sativus: Researchers don’t exactly know how saffron may affect ED, but small studies have found that saffron can improve some sexual dysfunction and overall sexual satisfaction.Tribulus terrestris: In some animal studies, Tribulus terrestris increased the amount of nitric oxide in the cavernous tissue of the penis of rats with type 2 diabetes. Nitric oxide helps widens arteries to improve blood flow. Always talk with your doctor before trying a new herbal supplement. These herbs in particular have little scientific evidence, if any, supporting their effects on people. They may also negatively interact with your medications or cause unintended side effects.

Potential risks and side effects

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any of these herbs as a medical treatment. Many herbs come from other countries and may be contaminated by pollutants from soil or poor factory conditions. They also aren’t as well-studied or tested as prescription medications like Viagra. Always buy your supplements from a reputable source. The FDA also warns men against purchasing supplements and creams that advertise themselves as the “herbal Viagra.” Herbal Viagra is banned because it can contain undeclared prescription medications or harmful ingredients that may cause severe side effects. In most cases, the harmful substances aren’t listed in the ingredients. Consult your doctor before purchasing any over-the-counter or online ED treatments.

What are the recommended treatment options for ED

Your doctor can help identify the underlying cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Treating an underlying condition is the first step to treating your ED. Treatments your doctor may prescribe if your ED persists include:prescription medication or injectionspenis suppositorytestosterone replacementa penis pump (vacuum erection device)a penile implantblood vessel surgery Find Roman ED medication online. Lifestyle treatments include:sexual anxiety counselingpsychological counselingmaintaining a moderate weighteating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acidsavoiding processed foodsreducing stressreducing tobacco and alcohol useacupunctureavoiding exposure to pesticides, chemicals, and endocrine disruptors

Are Viagra pills dangerous

Viagra and other ED medications are generally safe to take unless you have cardiovascular disease. This is because ED medications cause the arteries throughout the body to expand. Low blood pressure can result, even in people without heart disease. Viagra comes in multiple strengths. You and your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of taking ED pills, as well as the dosage that’s safe for you. Always take your medications according to their directions, and do not share your meds with others. Viagra can cause other side effects that range from mild to serious. These include:erections that last for more than 4 hours (priapism)insomniaheadacheheartburnchanges in color visionsudden vision losssudden hearing lossfaintingchest painrash

When to see a doctor about ED

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have other symptoms accompanying ED, or if your ED is affecting your quality of life. It’s important to mention any supplements you’re interested in during your visit. Don’t forget to tell your doctor about any symptoms that you may be experiencing or feeling due to ED. These details can help your doctor find the right treatment, especially if there’s an underlying condition causing your ED. If this is the case, you may not need herbal supplements. Foods and lifestyle habits for ED.

Frequently asked questions about herbal Viagra or herbs to treat ED

Can you treat erectile dysfunction naturally

The answer to this question depends on the underlying causes of your ED. If you have significant blood vessel or nerve damage that causes your ED, you may not be able to treat ED naturally. However, you may find that natural interventions like eating a healthy diet, refraining from smoking, and even taking steps to reduce stress in your life, can help ease your ED symptoms. You shouldn’t be afraid to talk with your doctor if you find that natural interventions are not working as well as you would hope.

What diet can help with erectile dysfunction

Researchers in 2020 followed more than 21,000 men, their diets, and their incidence of erectile dysfunction. They found that eating a healthy diet with fresh, high quality foods was associated with a lower risk of developing erectile dysfunction compared with those who did not eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet can also help you maintain a moderate weight, which can also reduce ED risk factors. Those who had the lowest incidence of erectile dysfunction followed a diet most similar to the Mediterranean diet. This diet involves eating whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and lean cuts of meat with an emphasis on seafood.

Takeaway

People have used herbal remedies for thousands of years to treat a number of medical conditions, including erectile dysfunction. Researchers have studied many of these herbs for their safety and effectiveness, while some herbs are still understudied as ED medication alternatives. It’s important to remember that there’s still more research that needs to be done before these herbs can be approved as effective ED treatments. Talk with a doctor about any herbs or natural supplements you may be taking — or are interested in taking — to make sure they don’t interfere with any other medications you’re prescribed or conditions you have. Last medically reviewed on September 29, 2022

How we vetted this article

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dovepress.com/gross-saponin-of-tribulus-terrestris-improves-erectile-dysfunction-in--peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-DMSOOur experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Sep 30, 2022 Medically Reviewed By Monisha Bhanote MD, FCAP, ABOIM, CCMS, YMTS Mar 21, 2022 Medically Reviewed By Monisha Bhanote MD, FCAP, ABOIM, CCMS, YMTS VIEW ALL HISTORY Share this articleMedically reviewed by Monisha Bhanote MD, FCAP, ABOIM, CCMS, YMTS — By Kimberly Holland and The Healthline Editorial Team — Updated on September 29, 2022

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