Introduction

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common condition in men that prevents them from getting or maintaining an erection during sexual performance. Also known as impotence, erectile dysfunction can occur because of many reasons, including health conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and more. Stress and other mental health problems can also be a contributor of ED.

Fortunately, ED is treatable and frequently curable. There are different treatments for erectile dysfunction, including prescription medications. Alternatively, most people prefer natural treatment options. 

If you are seeking natural options for ED conditions, read on to find out the best natural cures and treatments for erectile dysfunction. 

Home Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction

Acupuncture: 

Acupuncture is thought to be a promising treatment for erectile dysfunction. This ancient Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles at different points of the body to stimulate the energy flow and release tension.

Although acupuncture is considered a natural treatment for erectile dysfunction, the scientific evidence is still vague. While some studies gained positive results, others have shown conflicting results. In a 1999 study that was published in the International Journal of Impotence Research, it was established that 39% of the participants experienced restored sexual activity, and the quality of their erections improved after acupuncture treatments. 

A later 2003 study showed that acupuncture improved erections in 21% of patients of ED. In yet another study that was published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2013, it was reported that acupuncture treatments are effective for ED that is a side effect of antidepressants. 

If performed by a skilled practitioner, this treatment can be safe and effective. Besides, acupuncture treatment has low risks associated with it. Nonetheless, more research is needed to prove its effectiveness and its effects.

In many cases, your diet can affect your sexual performance. Eating a healthy diet helps to improve the health of the circulatory system and the overall body. A healthy diet also helps shed excess weight, which can a great contributor to impotence. 

Healthy Diet:

In a Massachusetts Male Aging Study, it was determined that consuming less processed and red meat and more natural foods like vegetables, fruits, fish, and whole grains reduced the likelihood of ED. Other foods to add to your diet include eggs, caffeine, apple cider vinegar, dark chocolate, oysters, shellfish, and pistachios. 

Exercise: 

Regular exercise is one of the lifestyle changes that can help reverse erectile dysfunction. Exercise can improve the symptoms of ED by enhancing blood flow and blood pressure through the production of nitric oxide in blood vessels. 

Additionally, regular exercise can increase the natural production of testosterone, which is vital for sex drive and erectile strength.

Quit Smoking and Reduce Alcohol Consumption: 

The other lifestyle change that stops erectile dysfunction is by quitting smoking. This remedy is especially effective if the erectile dysfunction is caused by vascular disease. This disease narrows or blocks the arteries, causing restriction of blood supply to the penis. 

Reducing your alcohol consumption is also encouraged to overcome erectile dysfunction. This is because alcohol acts as a depressant of the central nervous system, which stimulates the release of nitric oxide. Since this chemical is vital for promoting and maintain an erection, increased alcohol consumption can reduce erectile function.

Vitamins and Supplements: 

Over the years, patients with erectile dysfunction have used vitamins and supplements to improve their sexual function. A good example is the Force LX that claims to have natural fillings to increase testosterone production, thereby facilitating erection. According to Force XL Review postings, some people consider this supplement very effective, while others say it only works for a while.

Below are some vitamins and supplements that have been used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction for years. 

Ginseng – 

Red ginseng is one of the herbal remedies for erectile dysfunction. Also known as Herbal Viagra, it is believed to increase the production of nitric oxide, which improves blood flow. Ginseng is thought to have certain chemicals that may promote the relaxation of smooth muscles in the body. In return, this could improve erectile function. 

Although several studies have shown that ginseng could be an effective home treatment for erectile dysfunction, more research is needed. You should also note that taking this herb can have side effects like insomnia, headaches, low or high blood pressure, and increased heart rate. 

L-arginine – 

This amino acid is naturally present in the body and is responsible for making nitric acid. As mentioned earlier, nitric acid is the chemical that helps to facilitate and maintain a successful erection by relaxing the blood vessels.

One study showed that 5 grams of this supplement per day improved sexual function in 31% of ED patients. Another study reported that combining L-arginine with pycnogenol significantly restored sexual function in 80% of the participants in just two months. This improvement was noted in 90% of the participants after three months. 

Yohimbe – 

Yohimbe is extracted from the African Yohimbe tree and was originally prescribed to patients with ED. Several studies have shown that it has numerous benefits, including treating minor and major sexual problems in men and women.

Nonetheless, medical professionals do not recommend it to treat Erectile Dysfunction. Also, this supplement has many side effects when taken in high doses, including kidney failures, heart attacks, temporary lupus, irritability, and increased pulses. Hence, be sure to consult with your doctor first before taking Yohimbe.

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) –

 DHEA is a natural hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands and is responsible for converting the testosterone and estrogen in the body. Scientists make this over-the-counter hormone supplement to increase the testosterone level in men with erectile dysfunction. Testosterone not only boosts the sex drive (libido) but also ensures normal sexual function. Men with low testosterone levels are more likely to have erectile dysfunction. It has also been shown that men with low DHEA levels had increased chances of being impotent.

In a 2009 study, it was established that participants who received DHEA had a better chance of getting and maintaining an erection compared to those on placebo. Recent research has also shown that DHEA supplements can be used as an ED treatment for men with concurrent diabetes. Patients with concurrent diabetes are more prone to ED because it interferes with their blood flow and causes hormonal issues. Although there are promising results for DHEA supplements on ED patients, there is still a need for more research. 

Get Better Sleep: 

Getting enough sleep is yet another lifestyle change that helps ease the symptoms of ED. According to a review published in the Brain Research Journal, there is a strong relationship between sleep, sexual function, and sex hormone levels. The review noted that the level of sex hormone, testosterone, increased with good sleep patterns. Therefore, lack of sleep lowers testosterone levels, leading to sexual dysfunction. 

Sexual Therapy: 

Erectile dysfunction can also be a sign of mental health problems like stress, depression, and anxiety. When you are stressed, you are unlikely to perform as optimally as you ought to. If you are going through issues with your partner, it is best to seek professional help. Sexual therapy can greatly help you manage stress and ease the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. When performed by a trained therapist, you will notice changes in your sexual desire and performance.

Conclusion

Whatever the cause of your erectile dysfunction, many natural remedies may prove effective. While natural treatments like vitamins and supplements have been proven to work, consider the potential risks and side effects. If your condition doesn’t improve using natural home remedies, you can opt for prescription medicines. There are numerous testosterone boosters on the market that have been proven to alleviate the symptoms of ED. Always consult with your doctor to help you choose the best testosterone booster.