Herbal Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is often a complex condition that involves both physical and psychological components. Many world herbal medical traditions, including Chinese, African and South American, have prescribed herbs to men with erectile dysfunction. In modern herbal preparations, these herbs are often combined. In combination, one herb may work in an area where another herb has a weakness. In some cases, herbal treatment for erectile dysfunction will work and further treatment may not be necessary.

Yin Yang Huo

• Yin yang huo, which translates as "horny goat weed," is alleged in folklore to have been discovered by a shepherd who noticed a sudden increase in sexual activity in his goats after they had consumed this herb. A clinical trial by Dr. Stevel Lamm found that in a double-blind study, horny goat weed had a positive effect on libido in both healthy men and men with erectile dysfunction. The study found that a majority of men in the study experienced enhanced libido after using yin yang huo for a period of at least 45 days. Yin yang huo works in a similar fashion to Viagra: It relaxes certain muscles that allow for a higher volume of blood flow.

Ginseng

• Ginseng has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine for erectile dysfunction and low libido. Ginseng helps improve blood flow and circulation throughout the body and also helps to increase testosterone production. It increases a person's energy and helps to combat stress. In addition, it helps to improve mood, which can help with cases of erectile dysfunction that are the result of non-physical causes.

Yohimbe

• The medicinal herb yohimbe is made from the bark of the African yohimbe tree. Yohimbe has been used since antiquity in African herbal medicine as a treatment for erectile dysfunction and to increase libido. Yohimbe is the source of the extract Yohimbine. Yohimbine is a medicine available by prescription only for erectile dysfunction.

Gingko Biloba

• Although usually associated with its common use as a memory and concentration-enhancing herb, gingko biloba also increases blood circulation and helps increase blood oxygen levels. In addition, gingko helps to keep blood vessels free of obstructions.