Stimulating Desire with Natural Remedies

The consumption of natural aphrodisiac substances as alternatives to Viagra is increasingly popular. This is due to the belief that natural alternatives will have fewer side effects and do not require a prescription.

A Natural Substitute for Viagra

The quest for natural means to strengthen male potency and improve poor erections predates the introduction of Viagra in the 1990s.

A reduction in sexual desire is a widespread issue, impacting as many as 1 in 5 men and an even greater number of women.

Fact 1 of 4

Natural aphrodisiacs, such as rhinoceros horn, have been historically used to enhance libido, potency, and sexual pleasure.

Scientific Literature

The scientific literature includes studies highlighting the benefits of certain herbs as natural Viagra substitutes, including ginkgo, ginseng, maca, and yohimbine.

A notable review[1] in 2013 by researchers from New Delhi focused on aphrodisiac plants tested in humans and animals.

Understanding Impotence Causes

To discuss herbs as Viagra substitutes and understand erectile dysfunction, it’s crucial to know the body’s processes and what causes this disorder.

Chain of Physical Processes

Erection is a result of physical processes in the male body, requiring interaction between muscles, hormones, emotions, and the nervous system.

Erectile Dysfunction: Symptom or Disease?

Difficulties in achieving an erection are typically symptoms rather than standalone medical conditions. Diseases like diabetes and heart problems, or conditions causing mental stress, can disrupt the erection process, leading to erectile dysfunction or impotence.

Scientific studies[2] suggest that vascular disorders, particularly plaque accumulation in the arteries, cause erectile dysfunction in about 40% of men over 50.

Natural Remedies for Impotence

Herbs and nutritional supplements are marketed as natural remedies for impotence. Small studies have shown positive results for some supplements and herbs.

However, consulting a family doctor is essential before using these, especially to avoid interactions with prescription medications. Also, some additives react negatively to alcohol.

Maca Root

Maca root, or Lepidium meyenii, from the high Andes in Peru, is used for general health improvement. It’s an excellent dietary addition, rich in iodine, iron, magnesium, and amino acids.

Women aged 27 to 45 experience sexual fantasies more frequently and intensely compared to those who are younger or older.

Fact 2 of 4

There are three types of maca: yellow, black, and red, with black maca being effective in relieving mental stress and improving memory. Mental stress can adversely affect erections.

Experiments and Conclusions

Rat studies have shown that maca extract improves sexual abilities. However, evidence suggests maca root’s effect on erection quality might be a placebo, not affecting hormone levels.

A review of four studies[3] from 2010 found mixed results regarding maca’s effect on sexual dysfunction and libido.

Dosage and Recommendations

Men consuming 3 grams of maca per day for two months reported improved libido. However, subjects with heart disease consuming 0.6 grams per day experienced increased blood pressure.

A safe daily intake is recommended not to exceed 1 gram of maca per 1 kg of body weight.

Korean Ginseng (Panax)

Used for about two thousand years in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine, Korean red ginseng is known for its various health properties, including longevity.

It’s used for erectile dysfunction and as a natural remedy for impotence.

Mode of Action and Dosage

Ginseng releases nitric oxide, which improves erection. It’s also used in cream form for premature ejaculation.

Human trials[4] involved participants receiving 900 mg three times daily for two months. Short-term use is advised due to possible insomnia as a side effect.

Ginkgo Biloba

Originating in China, Ginkgo biloba has been found to increase blood flow to the penis.

An accidental discovery during a memory study revealed its positive effect on erections. Some studies show its effectiveness for erectile dysfunction caused by medication use.

In a study[5] conducted after 2010, researchers observed an improvement in sexual function among 76% of participants who were taking Ginkgo biloba alongside antidepressants.

Fluctuations in libido can often be attributed to alterations in personal relationships, work or family responsibilities.

Fact 3 of 4

This led the researchers to conclude that Ginkgo biloba could be effective in treating erectile dysfunction in men whose condition is a consequence of medication use.

Use and Dosage

Ginkgo should be used for managing erectile dysfunction, not as a cure. Positive study results involved participants taking 40 or 60 mg capsules twice daily for a month alongside antidepressants.

Consultation with a doctor is necessary before using ginkgo, especially if taking blood thinners.

White Ginger (Mondia whitei)

White ginger, derived from the root of an African plant, is especially popular in Uganda. It is even an ingredient in a local alcoholic beverage. White ginger is commonly used to enhance sperm count and boost libido.

Research[6] on rodents suggests that white ginger possesses qualities akin to Viagra, such as the capacity to elevate testosterone levels, improve sperm motility, increase sexual desire, and enhance erection quality.

Additionally, rodent-based studies have demonstrated a low toxicity level for white ginger.

Yohimbine / Yohimbe

Yohimbe, a tree from West Africa, has yohimbine in its bark, used for erectile dysfunction for 70 years. It widens blood vessels, activates penile nerves, and increases adrenaline levels.

Studies and Conclusions

In a 1989 [7]. J Urol. 1989 Jun;141(6):1360-3. doi: 10.1016/s0022-5347(17)41308-5. PMID: 2657105. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2657105/” class=”js–wpm-format-cite”>study[7] involving patients treated with yohimbine, results showed that 14% experienced a full erection after stimulation, 20% had a partial response, and the remaining 65% of participants saw no change.

In a separate study[8], 16 out of 29 patients who were administered yohimbine achieved orgasm with ejaculation.

Furthermore, a combination of yohimbine and L-arginine, an amino acid known for its blood vessel-dilating properties, demonstrated significant improvement in patients with erectile dysfunction.

This combination is deemed effective and safe for treating erectile dysfunction, though it may lead to side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps.

Dosage and Recommendations

Typical doses in studies were 20 mg per day. Side effects from increased adrenaline levels, like sweating and insomnia, should be considered.

The inclination towards sexual activity commonly diminishes as individuals age or within the context of long-term, committed relationships.

Fact 4 of 4

Avoid yohimbine with Viagra or high blood pressure medications. Consultation with a doctor is advised, particularly if using stimulants or antidepressants.

Additional Natural Remedies – In Brief

A brief mention is warranted for several other herbs that have shown potential as non-prescription treatments for impotence.

These plants, which demonstrated an ability to enhance erections in rodent studies, include saffron, tribulus, musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum), and epimedium.

Bibliography