Natural treatments For Erectile Dysfunction

Natural treatments For Erectile Dysfunction

Treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) has come a long way in recent years. People who have recurring issues with ED have tons of options available to them – including medicines, therapy and lifestyle alterations. 

In this article, we’ll be looking at some of the natural treatments that are available for erectile dysfunction, these can include herbal remedies, exercise, supplements and specific dietary choices. We’ll assess what the science has to say, and how effective these options can be. 

Curing erectile dysfunction naturally

It’s understandable why somebody might want to seek out more natural remedies before turning to medication, especially with a problem like ED. Some men may feel embarrassed discussing this issue with a doctor, or perhaps they’re concerned about side effects. 

Regardless of why – there are options available to you. In this section, we’ll detail some potential herbs that might be helpful. In later sections, we’ll focus on other treatment options such as diet and exercise. 

Herbal remedies and supplements for erectile dysfunction

While herbs may seem like a safer and more natural choice than medicine, it’s important to know that natural herbs can also have potent unintended side effects and can interact with the prescription medicine you may be taking. While there has been some research into the effects of herbal remedies – the science isn’t as clear on how effective these can be.

With all that said, here is a selection of some of the more popular herbal remedies for ED: 

• Ginseng: – Panax Ginseng increases nitric oxide production across the body (which boosts blood circulation) this herb has been used to treat impotence for thousands of years in Chinese medicine. 
• Ginkgo: – Gingko may increase blood flow to the penis, but it can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided by people taking blood thinning medication or anyone with a bleeding disorder. 
• Maca: – This herb, which originates from Peru, may boost health and improve ED. However, there is sparse evidence to support this. 
• Yohimbe: – Made from the bark of the Yohimbe tree in Africa, is thought to boost circulation by dilating blood vessels. There isn’t a whole lot of evidence to support it can treat ED and this supplement may increase blood pressure, cause anxiety, and cause faster, irregular heartbeats. 
• Horny goat weed: –  The leaves of this herb may help improve ED, however, there is a lack of research on this herbal remedy’s impact on ED, and it may also affect breathing and heart functioning. 
• DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone): – This is a hormone produced naturally in the adrenal glands and taken as a supplement it may benefit ED. However, there are potential side effects, like acne. 
• L-arginine: –  This supplement can also help dilate and widen blood vessels, which will help ED. This is a popular and fairly safe option but it can cause potential side effects, such as nausea and stomach pain. 

Lifestyle alterations for erectile dysfunction

Lifestyle changes can be an excellent way to boost general health, and generally speaking, healthier males are less likely to get ED. 

Some of the more common alterations you can make are as follows:

• Maintain a healthy diet
• Engage in regular physical exercise
• Lower alcohol intake
• Stop smoking
• Get enough sleep 

Alternative therapy treatments for erectile dysfunction

Aside from lifestyle alterations, there are other alternative treatment options available, including:

• Acupuncture – Studies show this can potentially help some cases of ED.
• Essential oils – while there isn’t much research into the specific effects of essential oils in treating ED, these can help you relax and stress is a major reason for ED. 

Diet and erectile dysfunction

Having a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for general health, and getting healthier and in good shape can help treat or prevent ED. But what about specific foods? 

While the research is sparse on what foods specifically help ED, some foods are high in certain nutrients which may be beneficial, such as: 

• Caffeine – Relaxed blood vessels around the penis and promotes better blood flow.
• Spinach – High in folic acid and magnesium, which boost blood flow and help produce hormones like testosterone, which are linked with healthy erections. 
• Oats – The amino acids in oats can help relax blood vessels, promoting better blood flow. 
• Chocolate – Flavonoids in dark chocolate help stabilize mood and help with blood flow. 
• Fish – Seafood in general is full of essential Omega 3 fatty acids which lower blood pressure and are good for cardiovascular health. 
• Olive oil – Contains antioxidants and fats that are good for health and may help treat ED.
• Watermelon – Contains a compound called citrulline which helps relax and dilate blood vessels, also improving blood flow. 

Vitamins that may help erectile dysfunction

The following vitamins may help ED, but there isn’t a lot of conclusive scientific evidence available on how they specifically can help this condition. 

• Vitamin B9 (Folic acid) may help improve erectile function.
• Vitamin D  deficiencies in this vitamin may contribute to ED.
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin) supplementing with this may help ED. 
• L-arginine supplements may also help improve erectile function. 

Hypnotherapy and hypnosis for erectile dysfunction

While there are many physical factors, mainly circulation issues, there are also psychological causes for ED. Anxiety, stress, past abuse and a whole range of mental problems can contribute to erectile dysfunction. 

Hypnosis, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and counselling may be options to deal with any psychological issues, phobias or traumas that could lead to ED. 

Kegel exercises for erectile dysfunction

General cardiovascular exercises like, walking, jogging, swimming, and generally moving around while keeping your heart rate up are all good for general health and blood circulation, and can as such help treat ED. 

Kegels are exercises that target the muscles in the pelvis. These muscles help sustain blood flow and support healthy erections, exercising this part of your body directly may help treat ED. 

Conclusion

There are plenty of options available to anyone suffering from ED. While there isn’t as much research available on some natural therapies, they can sometimes be used in conjunction with prescription medication. It’s very important to tell your doctor what treatments you plan on taking (especially herbal remedies) as they can interact with ED medication.