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Herbal Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction
GINSENG ROOT (Panax ginseng) is used in Asia to support sexual energy in older people, but the scientific evidence for this use is limited. From what we know about adaptogens, it seems reasonable that long-term use would enhance all the body's functions, and a healthier body is likely to behave better sexually. Even so, clinical trials have shown that it increases sperm production and motility. Clinicians report that it increases libido and has longevity effects, as well. Although these claims have yet to be proven scientifically, ginseng has been used by millions of people for 5,000 years and is one of the most widely used herbs by men in Asia.
ASHWAGANDHA ROOT (Withania somnifera), also called "Indian ginseng," is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurveda as a tonic and sedative. Although unrelated to the true ginsengs, ashwagandha appears to share many of the same properties and actions. This herb is the main tonic for men in Ayurveda, which considers ashwagandha to be a "rasayana," or particularly powerful rejuvenative. In fact, the name ashwagandha means "like a horse," connoting that it is regarded as a premier sexual tonic. More promising, an animal study this year showed that extracts of ashwagandha increased production of sex hormones and sperm, presumably by exerting a testosterone-like effect. Ashwagandha is also showing a variety of benefits for cardiovascular functions.
YOHIMBE (Pausinystalia yohimbe) is a West African tree. Its bark is a traditional herbal aphrodisiac. Scientific studies conducted on yohimbe since the 1930s have confirmed that the bark has noted effects on sexual performance. Yohimbe bark is the source of yohimbine, a prescription drug for impotence. Yohimbine, which does not include the whole herb, has been the focus of numerous scientific inquiries that have substantiated its ability to increase blood flow to the penis and cause "erectile stimulation." The drug is successful in about 30 to 45% of men who use it. The good news is that it seems to work even in men with ED caused by serious illness, such as diabetes.
GINKGO LEAF (Ginkgo biloba) is known for its circulation-enhancing effects. Many case reports, and a few scientific studies, suggest that ginkgo can reverse ED caused by antidepressant drugs. Studies show that ginkgo improves ED caused by arterial insufficiency. Ginkgo promotes improvement over time. Erections are firmer, and it seems to assist orgasm sensation, presumably because of increased circulation. Nowadays, 60 mg per day is considered a modest dose of ginkgo, especially in cases of circulatory insufficiency. Larger doses may work even better.
Dosage: A typical dose of moderate quality ginseng powder in capsules is 4,000 to 6,000 mg per day. Remember that the effects are slow and gradual, and extend over a period of years.
Dosage: A typical dose of ashwagandha as a rejuvenator is about 1 gm per day, taken over long periods (up to many years). Since ashwagandha is considered safe, however, larger quantities are often prescribed in Ayurveda for short-term use.
Dosage: Most men take 15 to 30 mg of yohimbine daily, but some respond optimally to doses as low as 10 or even 5 mg daily. If using the raw herb in capsule form, start with 200 mg total in one dose and work up from there. Do not take it late in the day. Some people appear to respond immediately to a single dose, but others require treatment over two to three weeks to produce results. Even in normal doses, side effects of dizziness, anxiety, hyperstimulation and nausea are relatively common.
Dosage: Take 60 mg of a standardized ginkgo product one to three times daily.
