Herbal Cure for Impotence

Impotence is marked by the inability to achieve or maintain an adequate erection for sexual intercourse. This condition can be chronic, recurrent or just an isolated incident. Erections result from a combination of blood vessel and nerve function that are influenced by testosterone. The most important part of the process is the production and release of nitric oxide, which makes the penis fill with blood. Before undergoing natural or standard treatments, an exam is advised to make sure there is no underlying condition. Herbal treatments are usually effective within three to four weeks of use.

Causes

Impotence can be caused by many things and there is often a mix of physical and psychological factors. The most frequent cause of impotence is diabetes due to its effects on proper circulation. High blood pressure and medications that treat it are another common cause. Anti-depressants can also affect sexual function. Excessive smoking and drinking are also culprits. Fatigue, stress and poor nutrition are not direct causes but can greatly compound the issue.

Herbal Treatments

Be sure to discuss herbal treatments with your doctor. Unless a specific dose is indicated, take as directed on the product label.

Ashwaganda liquid extract is a principal herb in Indian medicine and has a long history of use as a treatment for sexual dysfunction. Catuaba tincture can strengthen erections and increase sexual interest. Cistanche increases production of nitric oxide. Epimedium increases blood flow to the penis and stimulates the sensory nerves. Morinda is a natural anti-depressant that improves erectile function and can also lower blood pressure. Cistanche, epimedium and morinda are available from professional herbalists. Use as directed. Damiana is a well-known aphrodisiac and increases the stability of an erection during intercourse. Take one- half teaspoon of tincture in one-quarter cup of water three times a day. Gingko helps release nitric oxide from the linings of the blood vessels. Take 240 milligrams daily for at least six months. Muira puama tincture increases libido and the strength of erections. Yohimbe is perhaps the best known herb for improving sexual function. It increases blood flow to the penis and is more effective in men who consume a low-fat diet.

Precautions about Herbal Treatments

Avoid damiana if you have anemia or any condition that causes chronic bleeding. Men with prostate disorders should not use epimedium. Ginkgo should be avoided if you are taking blood thinning medications. The beneficial effects of ginseng are cancelled out by morphine and any related drugs, including cocaine.

Be sure to use yohimbe tincture and not tablets. They often do not contain an effective amount of the herb. Do not use within 12 hours of taking Viagra. It is important to take the dose indicated on the product label and no more. Taking too much can result in priapism, which results in a painful erection that needs surgery.

Other Natural Supplements

Poor nutrition is not a direct cause of impotence but it can be a factor that makes the issue worse. The following supplements can be of help.

Vitamin C increases blood flow. Take 250 to 500 milligrams up to three times a day. Vitamin E, B6, and the mineral zinc are heavily involved in hormone production. Take 400 IU, 50-100 milligrams and 30 milligrams daily respectively. Essential fatty acids are beneficial for blood flow. Supplements that are particularly helpful are evening primrose oil, fish oil and borage oil. Take 1,000 milligrams three times daily. It is not necessary to take all three; one is sufficient. Magnesium and the B vitamins are useful for combating stress. Take 200 milligrams of magnesium twice a day and 50 to 100 milligrams once a day of a B complex.

Other Suggestions

Smoking damages the nitric oxide mechanism that is vital for achieving erections. This sort of damage cannot be completely repaired by natural or standard treatments. Limit bicycle riding to one or two times per week. Address any psychological issues that are present. Even if they are not sexual in nature, they can have a big impact on sexual performance and interest.