Erectile Dysfunctions: Impotence - Natural Ways To Beat This Distressing Problem And Increase Your Sexual Drive

Impotence, also called erectile dysfunction, is the inability to get an erection or sustain it long enough for sexual intercourse. It's a problem that many men are extremely reluctant to consult their doctor about. Yet it is surprisingly common, affecting almost half of all men, at least temporarily, at some point in their lives. For ten per cent of men, it becomes a long-term problem, but is one that responds well to natural remedies, which offer a safe and effective alternative to drugs.

Most impotence is temporary and is the result of stress - and often taking active measures to relax, such as a programme of exercise or yoga, is all that's needed to reverse it (Scand J Urol Nephrol 1997; 31: 271-4). Other causes include declining testosterone levels and reduced blood flow to the penis - both of which can be overcome by following an alternative approach.

However, if you find that the problem persists for more than two weeks, it's vital that you see your doctor. Don't wait due to embarrassment, as erectile dysfunction can be a symptom of benign prostate enlargement or prostate cancer.

You should be aware that certain medication can cause impotence as a side effect. These include drugs to control high blood pressure, cimetidine (Tagamet) prescribed for stomach ulcers, antihistamines and some antidepressants. If you are taking any of these drugs, talk to your doctor about reducing your dosage or finding alternatives.

Viagra has been linked to dizzy spells and heart problems
A commonly prescribed drug for impotence is Viagra (sildenafil), which blocks the breakdown of nitric oxide - a chemical in your bloodstream that allows you to get an erection by dilating the blood vessels in your penis, which increases the flow of blood.

However, it can cause a range of unpleasant side effects, including headaches, facial flushing, dizziness, indigestion and visual disturbances (BMA New Guide to Medicines and Drugs, 2001). More alarmingly, Viagra has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, sudden death, irregular heartbeat and raised blood pressure.

Hormone replacement therapy with testosterone or its percursor DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is also given to increase libido. However, both drugs can increase the risk of prostate problems in elderly men.

If these approaches fail, your doctor may suggest penile injections or insertions of the drug alprostadil, which temporarily widen the blood vessels in your penis. Alprostadil injections and gel can cause pain, bruising and bleeding in the penis, swelling of the testicles, dizziness, chest pains and palpitations.

In view of the many adverse effects linked to these treatment approaches, you should consider opting for natural solutions instead. Start by making simple changes to your diet and lifestyle. For example, eliminating caffeine, sugar and alcohol can help to restore normal erections (Postgraduate Med 1993; 93:65-72).

In addition, stick to a low carbohydrate diet to help lower your cholesterol levels, as a build-up of cholesterol in your arteries can cause impotence by reducing the flow of blood to your penis (Medical Tribune 1992, June 25: 14). Smoking is also a risk factor and a study found that the rate of impotence was fifty per cent higher in current smokers than in those who had never smoked or had given up (Medical Tribune 1995, January 19: 5).

Arginine - a safe and effective natural alternative to Viagra
The amino acid arginine works in a similar way to Viagra by blocking the enzyme PDE-5, which can otherwise destroy nitric oxide and inhibit your ability to get an erection. It is also essential for the production of nitric oxide.

In one clinical trial, a third of men with erectile dysfunction experienced significant improvements and tests revealed that their blood levels of nitric oxide increased after taking arginine supplements for just six weeks (Brit J Urol Int 1999; 83(3): 269-73). Take 500mg of arginine two to four times a day, on an empty stomach.

A form of vitamin B3 called inositol hexanicotinate can also help, by dilating the blood vessels in your penis in much the same way as nitric oxide does. It also lowers cholesterol levels, so reducing a possible cause of impotence (Intl Record Med 1961; 174: 9-15). The recommended dose is 1,000mg a day.

The mineral zinc is known to be essential for a wide range of sexual functions, including testosterone production, maintaining normal erections and libido. In one study, when a group of men in their sixties were given a zinc supplement, their testosterone levels actually doubled (Nutrition 1996; 12: 344-8). Take 30mg of zinc a day.

Ginseng can restore libido and sexual potency in just eight weeks
Asian ginseng root (Panax ginseng) has long been used to improve libido and the ability to maintain an erection. In double-blind clinical trials, sixty per cent of men with erectile dysfunction experienced improvements after taking a ginseng extract for just eight to twelve weeks (Int J Impotence Res 1995; 7: 181-6; J Urol 2002; 168: 2070-3). Take 500mg of standardised extract daily.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) can also help to combat impotence, by increasing blood flow to your penis (J Sex Educ Ther 1991; 17: 53-61). A dose of 120mg a day of standardised extract is recommended.

Another traditional herb that has proved itself in clinical trials is muira puama (Liriosma ovata), also known as Brazilian potency wood. In a study of 262 patients with erection problems, a daily dose of 1 to 1.5 grams of muira puama extract for just two weeks increased libido in 62 per cent of men and improved erections for 51 per cent of men (J Urol 1989; 141(6): 1360-3). Take 500mg one to three times a day.