Try natural remedies for erectile dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) can have several causes which range from the psychological, neurological, and physical to other associated medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus, heart disease, hypertension and cigarette smoking.
 
Treatment options available in the market today include PDE5 inhibitors, injection therapy, other oral prescription medicines, vacuum devices, surgical implants, herbal or over-the-counter medications. Herbal and over the counter medicines are outside the purview of the FDA and those afflicted with ED must do their research before finding a natural healing method best suited to them.
 
Several herbal remedies are considered a useful cure for ED. One such remedy is L-arginine. It is an amino acid that helps the body get rid of ammonia. It is also used to make certain compounds in the body and can be converted to glucose and glycogen if needed. Like the drug sildenafil citrate (Viagra), L-arginine is believed to enhance the action of nitric oxide, which relaxes muscles surrounding blood vessels supplying the penis. As a result, blood vessels in the penis dilate, increasing blood flow, which helps maintain an erection. What sets it apart from Viagra is that while the latter blocks enzyme PDE5 which destroys nitric oxide, L-arginine is used to make nitric oxide. L-arginine is available as an oral supplement and can also be found naturally in food such as meat, poultry, dairy and fish.
 
Another natural method of enhancing erectile function and improving general sexual well-being is Propionyl-L-Carnitine. This is an amino acid that is naturally produced in the body and its additional intake is likely to be most effective for diabetic patients suffering from ED.

Gingko is an herb used by people who experience sexual dysfunction as a side effect of antidepressant drugs. Gingko relaxes smooth muscles and enhances blood flow inside the penis, thus improving sexual function.

Zinc supplements can also work as a remedy for erectile dysfunction as high level of mineral zinc deficiency, associated with diabetes, long-term use of diuretics, digestive disorders, and certain liver and kidney diseases, sometimes leads to ED.

The herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also called Indian Ginseng, can also be considered for use in ED as it is known to increase stamina and enhance sexual function. However, drowsiness is a potential side-effect of this herb.
 
A herb that enhances testosterone levels in the body is Eurycoma longifolia or Tongkat ali . This is often recommended for use both for bodybuilders and those desirous of improving their general energy levels, fertility and sexual desire.
 
Tribulus terrestris is an herb which has been used in traditional medicines of China for centuries and has long been a constituent in tonics in Indian ayurveda practice, where it is known by its Sanskrit name, 'gokshura'. The herb is promoted today as a booster for the purpose of increasing sex drive.
 
Doctors are of the view that occasional erectile dysfunction is normal. But if it persists or becomes a recurring problem, it is best to consult a doctor for an evaluation. He or she can help those afflicted understand treatment options — such as lifestyle changes or medications.  There are certainly many herbal remedies available to people suffering from erectile dysfunction. Before taking medication the potential side effects and risk factors must be thoroughly researched and understood.