Natural Cures For Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is estimated to affect around 30 million males worldwide. Occasional occurrence of this problem should not be worrisome. However, frequent episodes sure are, as it may cause stress in a relationship, or affect the self-confidence of the person suffering from it. Although erectile dysfunction is mostly considered as a sexual problem, it may also be an indicant of cardiovascular disorders, high cholesterol, neurological disorders, and uncontrolled diabetes to name a few. Speaking of the symptoms, they occur according to the severity of the condition. Some men may suffer from complete dysfunction thus, unable to achieve any kind of erection at all. While some men may not keep their erection long enough for penetration thus, have a problem of inconsistency. And there are men who, despite achieving an erection, and making a penetration, cannot keep up with it long enough till climax. So they have the problem of brief erection. Coming to natural cures for erectile dysfunction, it is mainly about certain herbs that are purported to be a solution. But knowing if such herbs really work can be a tricky job.

Herbs for Treating Erectile Dysfunction Naturally

Horny Goat Weed
Horny goat is claimed to be a time-tested Chinese herbal remedy for impotence. It also helps with low sex drive, and common symptoms such as fatigue, and pain. In layman language, erection occurs when sexual stimulation triggers the release of nitric oxide in the body. This relaxes the penile muscles, which then allow blood to gush in the nerves thus, causing an erection. Now this erection is lost when another chemical called phosphodiesterase type 5 is released. This stops the effect of nitric oxide. What horny weed does is, it inhibits the action of phosphodiesterase thus, helping the person to maintain erection for a longer time. This action of the herb is, however, backed up by a few lab studies, and a handful of anecdotal evidences. Medical experts are still dubious about its effects on human beings. Important side effects of this herb include blood thinning, and hypotension.

Gingko
Another purported cure for erectile dysfunction in young men, and the elderly, is the herb called gingko. The main function of this herb is to improve blood circulation in the body. And that is why it is believed to treat impotence by increasing blood circulation in the penis thereby, helping an erection to last long enough for sexual pleasure. There have been numerous studies on the efficacy of the gingko herb to treat impotence. Some studies were able to confirm the fact that the herb is helpful in treating ED which is related to SSRI antidepressants, and other similar drugs. In a study conducted on 30 men, the herb showed promising results in majority, but not all were benefited by its use. The main side effect of the herb is increased risk of bleeding.

Ginseng
This particular herb, unlike the ones mentioned above, has been able to show more promising results in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The Korean red ginseng in particular, has been a part of several studies which yielded satisfactory results. Traditionally, the herb is considered as an age-old natural remedy to stimulate male sexual function. Medical experts conducted a study where about 45 men were asked to use the herb. Surprisingly, most of them experienced improved erection, and reduced symptoms of ED. In another study, 60 men were tested. Even they experience better and long-lasting erection, and penetration. Although doctors aren't certain about the working of this herb, they assume that it enhances the action of nitric oxide. Although considered safe, the herb must be used with caution in diabetics, as it tends to lower blood sugar.

Self-Care Measures
The following measures, although may not cure ED, may offer a great deal of help in its treatment.

# Quit smoking - it is not uncommon for long-term smokers to experience sexual problems including impotence. One of the severe repercussions of smoking is poor blood circulation, of which ED could be an obvious outcome. According to American Heart Association, those who smoke 20 cigarettes a day, are 60% more susceptible to develop impotence, when compared to men who never smoked. So kicking this habit would not help treat and manage ED, it would offer a host of other benefits for the body.

# Diet - diet also plays a vital role in preventing and dealing with such conditions. Foods such as raisins, prunes, apricots, dates, bananas, strawberries, watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges, beets, greens, spinach, papayas, watermelon, garlic, peas, tomatoes, mushrooms, beans, peas, turkey, and fish help in reducing the severity of erectile dysfunction.

# Regular exercise - another natural method to overcome erectile dysfunction is being physically active. Something as simple as a 30 minutes work everyday is beneficial in reducing the risk of ED. Regular workouts improve the health of the blood vessels including those of the penis. Also, other factors like stress, obesity, high blood pressure, and other underlying conditions can be kept under check with a regular exercise regimen.

Some More Methods
Here are some methods to add to the ones above...

• Change the setting and the mood for love. Now this can include lighting up the room with candles, to spending a quiet night at a beach shack
• Trying new positions is also a natural way to heighten sexual pleasure
• Relaxation is one of the keys to enjoyable sex. Do some deep breathing, and relax your body and your mind
• Always keep the line of communication open with your partner. Often, lack of this very element becomes a great contributor in aggravating the condition of ED
• Avoid drinking before making love
• Masturbation, according to experts, is a good way to explore your sexual functioning and performance. It may be helpful in teaching you how to achieve pleasure, and in what ways

To conclude, the herbs mentioned in this article have been popularly used as traditional remedies to treat and manage sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction. However, it cannot be denied that their usefulness remains a sketchy subject, for they lack substantial clinical trials and evidence. Their side effects, and possible interactions with other medicines are the major concerns behind their use. So always consult a qualified specialist before using any of these products, as it is safe to err on the side of caution.