If there is one thing that can make a man more nervous than an impending performance review at work, it’s erectile dysfunction. It’s still a taboo subject in most parts of the world, which is surprising considering that 26% of men below the age of 40 suffer from this malaise. In the United States alone, there are over 30 million men with this disorder.
Erectile dysfunction: An overview
Abbreviated as ED, this disorder inhibits a person’s libido and makes it difficult for him to achieve and sustain an erection long enough for intercourse. Male arousal is a complicated procedure, with a lot of organs involved in the process. On the face of it, an erection happens when blood flows into the corpora cavernosa inside the penis, causing it to swell and turn hard. If this blood flow is restricted due to any reason, an erection is impossible to achieve.
Identifying the underlying cause of ED can be a fairly tricky endeavor. It can happen due to one of several reasons:
- Physiological problems such as sleep disorders & nerve issues
- Hormonal imbalance
- Diseases like diabetes, atherosclerosis, Parkinson’s, and cardiovascular diseases
- Stress, anxiety and depression
- Emotional issues
- Smoking
- Alcoholism
- Substance abuse
- Obesity
In broad strokes, all these issues can be segregated in two categories – physical and psychological.
Herbal ED treatment: The what and how of it
Fortunately for the 26% of men who suffer from this disorder, ED can be treated both through traditional and herbal medicines. The use of herbal medicines in the treatment of ED is fast gaining traction as more research is being conducted in the field. Panax Ginseng, also known as herbal Viagra, has proven benefits for ED treatment. Rhodiola Rosea is another herbal product which has been successful in alleviating ED.
There are some other indigenous herbs cultivated in different parts of the world which may help alleviate symptoms of ED. Maca, for example, is a root vegetable sourced from certain corners of Peru with proven benefits for the treatment of ED. It contains amino acids, iodine and magnesium.
Another natural remedy for ED is Yohimbine, a tree bark from West Africa. It has been known to activate and release nitrous oxides in the body which ultimately stimulate the penal nerves. It not only prolongs erections but also enhances the sexual appetite of an individual. Combining Yohimbine with L-arginine has proven to be highly effective in for ED.
The root of another African plant, Mondia Whitei, reportedly improves sperm motility and testosterone levels.
Everything considered, there are several natural ways to treat ED effectively. Although thorough research is required to establish their curative properties empirically, there is no doubt that these remedies have worked wonders on countless individuals.
The stigma attached to ED still causes millions of men to suffer silently without seeking medical attention. As the world moves forward in the 21st century, one can hope that men can talk about it freely and know that sexuality is an integral part of their quality of life.
