Herbal Medicine For Erectile Dysfunction

There’s a lot of stigma surrounding erectile dysfunction.

Unfortunately, this means that people living with it are often less likely to get help, let alone seek out alternative, natural remedies.

I’m Dr. JJ, a naturopathic doctor in Toronto with a passion for natural remedies.

Many people are hesitant to forgo traditional erectile dysfunction medication in favour of a more natural route.

Nevertheless, natural remedies for erectile dysfunction are both safe and effective.

This article will highlight some of them.

Keep reading to hear more about naturopathic doctor approved techniques for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition which effects your ability to get or maintain an erection.

An erection is the result of increased blood flow to the penis, most commonly the result of sexual thoughts or manual stimulation.

It is a multi step process.

First, the muscles within the penis begin to relax to help with increased blood flow.

As a result of the increased blood flow, the penis becomes rigid and the penile veins begin to constrict to keep blood from escaping and maintain the erection.

The erection process ends when the blood vessels begin to relax, and blood starts flowing again.

Erectile dysfunction can occur at any point during the erection process.

It results in an inability to get or keep an erection to have sexual intercourse.

It can present as occasional or frequent.

Occasional erectile dysfunction is a common experience often brought on by stress or lifestyle factors such as smoking or poor diet.

In contrast, frequent erectile dysfunction is less common but may signify a more serious problem.

How Do You Know You Have Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a common complaint amongst people with penises and your chances of experiencing it increase with age.

The most obvious sign of erectile dysfunction is difficulty or an inability to get or maintain an erection during sexual intercourse.

Erectile dysfunction may also occur alongside other sexual disorders, such as premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, or an ability to achieve orgasm (anorgasmia).

Speak to your physician if you suspect that you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, especially if your symptoms last longer than three months.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

There isn’t a single cause for erectile dysfunction.

Instead, several both physical and emotional factors can play into the development of erectile dysfunction.

Physical risk factors for the development of erectile dysfunction include:

• Increase age
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Hypothyroidism
• Obesity
• Hormone imbalances, such as low testosterone levels
• Kidney disease
• Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and poor diet
• Certain prescription medications, such as some antidepressants
• Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea
• Street drug use
• Excess alcohol use
• Liver cirrhosis
• Epilepsy
• Tobacco use
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Pelvic injury or damage
• Scar tissue on the penis (Peyronie’s disease)

Emotional risk factors for the development of erectile dysfunction include:

• Relationship problems
• Stress
• Depression
• General anxiety
• Performance anxiety
• Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Past sexual abuse

Can Erectile Dysfunction Be Reversed?

It depends on the underlying cause.

For instance, erectile dysfunction brought on by smoking or poor diet may resolve on its own once you quit smoking and improve your diet.

Other types of erectile dysfunction, such as those caused by depression and anxiety, may be improved when the underlying problem is addressed, such as through therapy.

How To Fix Erectile Dysfunction Naturally

Fortunately, many types of erectile dysfunction can be improved through natural medicine, which offer less side effects than traditional pharmaceuticals.

However, they aren’t a miracle cure.

Instead, they offer a cumulative effect that help to improve your symptoms over time.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common natural methods you can use to improve your symptoms erectile dysfunction.

1. Panax Ginseng

Ginseng includes a variety of slow growing plants that provide a variety of health benefits.

Research suggests that one form of ginseng, Panax ginseng, may help to improve erectile dysfunction.

It can be purchased in cream form.

2. Ginkgo Biloba

Also referred to as maidenhair, ginkgo biloba comes from an ancient type of tree used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

When taken in supplement form, ginkgo biloba may help increase blood flow to the penis and subsequently help treat erectile dysfunction.

3. Maca Root

Maca root is commonly used in powder form for a variety of health benefits, improved sexual performance being one of them.

It also can help ease symptoms related to depression and anxiety, thereby helping to reduce related erectile dysfunction symptoms.

Maca powder can be applied to your favourite smoothie or warm drink.

4. Rhodiola Rosea

Also known as “golden root”, rhodiola rosea is an adaptogen herb that provides a great deal of health benefits, such as enhanced energy and mental performance.

It has been found to significantly improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

5. Horny Goat Weed

Horny goat weed includes several types of herbs related to the Epimedium genus.

It contains certain substances which may help to improve sexual performance and help erectile dysfunction.

Are There Dangers With Herbal ED Solutions?

Herbal solutions for erectile dysfunctions are safe.

However, side effects are possible.

For instance, panax ginseng may cause insomnia, headaches, and vertigo.

its always a good idea to consult with a doctor before starting any medicines, herbal or otherwise.

Questions? Ask Dr. JJ!

If you’re interested in hearing more about herbal medicines and how they can help you, you’ve come to the right place.

At my clinic, we offer guidance on natural remedies for a wide range of ailments and conditions.

Book your appointment with me, Dr. JJ, today and see how herbal medicine can transform your life.