Natural Treatments for Impotence
Filed Under Dr. Zoltan Rona (MD) |
Impotence affects an estimated 20 million men in North America and is usually defined as the inability to have penile erections sufficient for intercourse. At least 25% of all men over the age of 50 have some degree of penile dysfunction. A loss of libido and subsequent impotence have an organic etiology in over 85% of cases while the remainder are related to psychological problems.
THE CAUSES
- Amphetamines, alcohol, anti-ulcer drugs, cocaine, tranquilizers, antihypertensives, anti-depressants
- Cigarettes and tobacco products
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Hardening of the penile arteries
- Diabetes
- Prostate enlargement
- High prolactin
- Low testosterone
- Mumps as an adult
- Psychological or emotional stress
Treating underlying physical or psychological problems is of primary importance but there are a large number of self care (complementary medical) approaches, irrespective of the cause, that are low risk, high benefit and well worth a trial of several months. Alcohol is an underestimated cause of low libido and impotence as it can decrease the body’s ability to produce testosterone (male hormone).
Deep breathing exercises, meditation, visualization and yoga are all methods that can enhance sexual energy. A balanced diet low in animal fats, fried foods, sugar, caffeine, white flour products, alcohol and junk foods is important. Avoiding heavy exercise, severe stress, hot tub baths and saunas may help some men improve impotence.
SUPPLEMENTS TO HELP BOOST SEX DRIVE
Zinc is especially related to male fertility and sex drive. Low zinc levels may lower testosterone production, lead to impotence, prostate problems, a low sperm count, and a loss of sexual interest. Vitamin C is vital for optimal sperm motility. The amino acid, arginine is also important for sperm production and possibly enhanced libido. Other nutrients or herbs important to increase the sperm count, improve prostate gland function, enhance sperm motility, increase male hormone production by the body or create a healthier nervous system include the following:
Vitamin A
Beta-carotene
Vitamin B complex, especially B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid) and B6 (pyridoxine)
Vitamin E
Bioflavonoids
Calcium
Inosine
Inositol
Octacosanol (a wheat germ derivative),
Flax seed oil (essential fatty acids)
Glandular extracts (bovine or porcine) of the male reproductive organs
Ginkgo biloba extract
Siberian ginseng
Dong quai
Sarsaparilla (contains natural testosterone-like substances)
DHEA (dehydroepiandosterone)
Exsativa® (combination of avena sativa, stinging nettle and sea buckthorn)
Yohimbine®
The use of all these natural remedies in consultation with a naturopath or medical doctor is advisable.
Dr. Rona
