Impotence is a lot more common than most people think, with the condition being more prevalent among men over the age of 40. For those uncomfortable about speaking to the family doctor about impotence, there are plenty of natural alternatives to Viagra and traditional medications worth trying.
What Causes Impotence or Erectile Dysfunction?
The biggest factor increasing the likelihood of a man suffering from erectile dysfunction is down to age, with around 40% of men over 40 and as many as 70% of over 70-year olds affected by the condition. There are a wide range of possible causes underlying impotence, with the majority of sufferers having an underlying physical cause.
In The Essential Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Herbal Supplements, Brewer (2010) highlights various causes associated with impotence, to include the following:
- diabetes – affects circulation/nerve supply
- atherosclerosis – hardening/furring up arteries
- smoking – increases risk of high blood pressure
- alcohol and drug abuse
- antidepressants
- high blood pressure medication
- heart disease medication
- cancer treatments
- leaky veins
- hormone imbalances
- spinal cord injury
- Alzheimer's
- epilepsy
- multiple sclerosis (MS)
- stress
- tiredness/overwork
Natural Remedies to Treat Impotence
There are many different natural, nutritional or herbal remedies currently available, which may help reduce symptoms associated with impotence. In Healing Supplements, Lakin et al. (2006) identify natural remedies for impotence treatment to include ginseng and grape seed extract, with the former being recognised in one research study to improve erection is 60% of patients.
Brewer (2010) suggests further natural remedies and alternative approaches to impotence treatment, as follows:
- catuaba bark – maintains potency, fertility, improves erections
- garlic – improves circulation
- limiting alcohol consumption
- maca – aphrodisiac used to treat male impotence
- muira puama – may increase sexual desire, improve impotence
- saw palmetto – improves impotence, increases sex drive
- tribulus terrestris – Ayurvedic medicinal treatment for impotence
It is always best to discuss any problems with one's doctor or at a specialist, anonymous sexual health clinic. Also, it is very important to understand that natural and alternative remedies, just like Viagra and other medicines for impotence, may have certain side effects. A doctor will be able to rule out underlying physical or mental health conditions, making it well worth getting checked out.
As highlighted above, impotence (erectile dysfunction) is a very common condition, primarily affecting men over the age of 40. Causes of impotence, include diabetes, alcohol/drug abuse, antidepressants, smoking, heart problems, stress, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Alternative treatments for impotence, may involve Korean ginseng, garlic, maca, limiting alcohol, stress reduction techniques and grape seed extract.
Sources:
Brewer, S. (2010) The Essential Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Herbal Supplements London: Constable Robinson
Lakin et al. (2006) Healing Supplements London: Reader's Digest
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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