If we told you that mild to moderate erectile dysfunction affects approximately 10 percent of men per decade of their life that is 40% by age 40, 50% by age 50, and so on and so forth. This may seem unbelievable. However, that’s the hard truth
Around 40%(1) of men by the age of 40 starts suffering from ED. In fact, contrary to popular opinion, ED can affect men at any age.
But does that mean that there’s nothing you can do to change the situation?
There is and we don’t mean to direct you to conventional medicine. There are plenty of natural remedies and alternative therapies today that you can try and feel the difference for yourself. However, before we jump into how natural remedies and alternative therapies can cure ED, let’s understand what it means.
In simplistic terms, erectile dysfunction or impotence, as it is commonly called, is the inability to have and hold an erection long enough for intercourse. It is to note that having erection troubles now and again isn’t necessarily a case of ED.
To be classified as ED it has to be an ongoing issue which eventually starts affecting other bodily functions, triggers stress, affects your confidence, and most importantly, can lead your relationship to troubled waters.
Table of Contents
Natural Remedies for ED Cure
- Essential Oils
- Food
- Alternative Treatments
- Lifestyle Changes
- Herbs
CURE 1: Essential Oils for ED
Essential oils are a godsend when it comes to treating ED. There are more than 3,000 oils in the aromatherapy world, but fret not, here we list the top oils for treating ED.
Not only do these help you relax and unwind but they also help you to connect with your partner more intimately. There are many ways in which you can integrate essential oils into your daily routine. However, whichever route you choose, make sure to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil and it is to be noted that these oils should not be ingested.
1. Ylang Ylang Oil
Ylang ylang oil comes with energizing and aphrodisiac qualities. In fact, in Indonesia, it’s fairly common to use this oil to decorate the bed of newlyweds.
This essential oil is so potent that it is used as one of the key ingredients in several perfumes by leading brands.
Why Does This Work?
This oil possesses rich, invigorating, and euphoric properties, its floral-scent appeals to everyone and extends a sense of wellness, enhances self-confidence, helps treat depression, and lowers anxiety which may be caused due to ED.
How to Use?
One of the best things about the ylang-ylang oil is that its applications are diverse. You can combine this oil with a woody-scented fragrance like sandalwood to increase the potency of this essential oil and to increase its absorption capabilities.
Moreover, you could mix it with other floral oils and add it in your diffuser. Additionally, you can also inhale it directly from the bottle. The choices are many; it all depends on your preference.
Here’s a Simple DIY Solution You Can Try:
Mix 1 ml of ylang-ylang essential oil + 0.5ml of cassia essential oil + 1ml of ginger essential oil + 0.5ml of mountain savory essential oil with 30 ml of hazelnut oil. Massage your feet and spine for the best results.
How Much to Use?
Although there is no such dosage limit on the usage of this oil, it is recommended that you stick to 1-2 ml of usage and it is to be noted that you have to dilute this in a carrier oil before using it.
2. Rose Essential Oil
The essential oil of rose is extracted from the fresh Damascus Rose (Rosa Damascena) by steam distillation of the flowers. It is composed of several chemical components out of which the most beneficial are citronellol and citral.
Why Does This Work?
Rose oil is known to relieve anxiety due to its calming and stimulating properties. A well-known aphrodisiac, the Damask rose essential oil particularly helps in treating erectile dysfunction. Note that it is made from the Damask rose – commonly found in Morocco, Bulgaria, and Turkey – and is most effective when inhaled straight from the bottle.
How to Use?
If you wish to carry the scent with you at all times, simply blend the oil into a cologne. You can also try the most common method used in essential oils: put it in a diffuser so that your home has a soothing vibe. If you wish to see its immediate effects, try inhaling the oil straight from the bottle.
How Much to Use?
If you opt for the inhalation option, it is suggested that you repeat this each day prior to bed, and continue doing so for at least 2-3 weeks to see a noticeable difference.
3. Neroli Oil
Extracted from orange blossoms, this essential oil is perfect for people who suffer from ED related to clogged arteries, stress, or hormone imbalance.
Why Does This Work?
Studies(2) suggest that inhalation of neroli oil can help increase sexual desire, reduce blood pressure, decrease stress levels, and stimulate the endocrine system – all integral factors that contribute to a healthy sexual life.
How to Use?
You can add this oil in a diffuser or inhale it directly from the bottle as it helps balance the sex hormones and enhance libido.
How Much to Use?
For the diffuser, 4-5 drops (roughly 2ml) are sufficient, whereas if you wish to inhale it, a few drops a couple of times a day is recommended.
4. Clary Sage Oil
Clary sage essential oil is particularly useful when your libido is low due to hormonal shifts or due to underlying causes such as depression.
Why Does This Work?
A 2014 study(3) suggests that inhaling clary sage essential oil can have hormone-balancing properties and offer antidepressant effects when inhaled. Simply put, clary sage essential oil doubles up as a “mood enhancer” and boosts libido functioning.
How to Use?
You can inhale it directly or put it in the diffuser.
How Much to Use?
If you’re inhaling it, a few drops once a day is good enough whereas if you wish to put it in the diffuser, use 4-5 drops.
CURE 2: Foods for ED
They say pills, pumps, surgeries, and any kind of radical treatment works best when it comes to curing ED, but we beg to differ.
Eating the right kind of foods that are anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants, and cholesterol-lowering can improve sexual functioning, reduce the risk of heart disease, and boost your mood positively.
Does this idea seem too far-fetched and good-to-be-true? The following suggestions will give you some food for thought:
1. Garlic for erectile dysfunction (Allium Sativum)
The best remedy for help between the sheets is this pungent herb. It is one of the best food remedies to induce blood flow in the artery walls and relax the blood vessels – both of which can aid in impotence. All in all, for all things impotence-related, garlic should be your go-to food.
Why does it work?
According to a study(4) published in the journal, “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,” garlic can help relax blood vessels, improve circulation, and by extension, control impotence. In essence, integrating garlic in your diet can help keep your arteries healthy and prevent it from blocking out as you age.
How to Use?
You can consume garlic with milk or honey. Here’s a simple recipe: Crush 1-2 cloves of garlic and mix it with 1 teaspoon of raw honey. Consume it on an empty stomach.
How Much to Use?
For maximum benefits, simply chew 3-4 cloves of raw garlic every day. If you can’t ingest it in the raw form (and we don’t blame you), mix it with honey as mentioned above and consume daily for three to four months.
2. Chili Peppers (Capsicum Annuum L.)(5)
The presence of capsaicin makes peppers hot and spicy. Plus, it acts as a mild blood thinner, thereby helping increase blood flow.
Why does it work?
A study conducted by French scientists displayed that approximately 65% of subjects who consumed spicy foods showed an increase in testosterone levels in the blood in addition to an increased libido. To that end, you may be surprised to know that the spicy stuff in cayennes, jalapenos, habaneros, and other peppers can help relax the arteries and increase blood flow to the heart and other organs, including the penis.
Chilies are also known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, increase the heart rate, release endorphins, and prevent blood clots.
How to Use?
Sprinkle some cayenne pepper daily to your food but make sure it’s moderate in amount or else you may end up with an upset stomach. Conversely, you can take regular doses of supplemental cayenne pepper if you can’t bear to take the heat and spice but make sure to consult your doctor first.
How Much to Use?
Just add a few peppers to your meal as per preference. For the recommended dose for supplemental pepper, seek advice from an expert.
3. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Olea Europaea)
Olive oil’s health benefits know no bound – since it is full of ‘the good-for-you monounsaturated fat’. A 2018 study(6) by the University of Athens claims that olive oil might be more beneficial for ED than Viagra and that it can reduce impotence by 40%!
If you’re wondering why we’ve specifically mentioned ‘extra virgin olive oil’, keep reading. Extra-virgin means that the olives are pressed without using any chemicals or high heat. As you may have guessed, this helps preserve the healthy antioxidants your body needs.
Why does it work?
Olive oil’s benefits are primarily three-fold: It can help your body produce more testosterone, eliminate bad cholesterol in your body, and preserve the precious antioxidants you need to function effectively.
How to Use?
Incorporating a Mediterranean style diet can work wonders for ED as it primarily uses olive oil in varying proportions. You can also add olive oil in salads, veggies, or anywhere you fancy really.
How Much to Use?
The recommended dose is nine tablespoons per week, or just over one tablespoon each day.
4. Pistachios (Pistacia Vera)
Research(7) published in the “International Journal of Impotence Research(8)” suggests that consuming pistachios for several weeks showed improvement in several parameters of ED, including improved International Index of Erectile Function scores for study participants.
Pistachios also improved cholesterol levels and blood pressure with no notable side effects.
Why does it work?
Pistachios are loaded with antioxidant, arginine, and phytosterol properties making it ideal for people suffering from ED. Studies suggest that antioxidant-rich foods have a Viagra-like effect of boosting nitric oxide production.
How to Use?
You can consume pistachios as is in the raw form for best results.
How Much to Use?
Consuming 3-4(9) handful of pistachios for a period of three weeks can lead to significant improvement in blood flow through the penis and firmer erections.
Also Read: 10 Health Benefits of Pistachios
CURE 3: Alternative treatments for ED
As someone suffering from erectile dysfunction, we understand your primary concern:
“Are there are any non-invasive and natural erectile dysfunction remedies you could give a shot?”
Luckily, with advancements in natural healing, there are plenty of alternative home remedies you can try that can possibly reverse ED!
1. Acupuncture for ED
Acupuncture is a form of ancient Chinese medicine that uses needles to stimulate certain points on the body (typically the abdomen, hands, and legs) and to maintain a balance between the bodily functions.
Why does it work?
According to a study(10), around two-thirds(11) of participants receiving the acupuncture treatment for ED showed signs of improvement in their ED symptoms. Acupuncture helps to stimulate your nerves, which releases hormones and increase blood circulation in the body.
It can also help regulate blood sugar and create energy pathways that allow the energy to flow through the body and heal. All in all, it is extremely helpful in overcoming diverse illnesses and conditions by correcting imbalances.
Note: Always make sure to consult a certified expert before signing up for acupuncture sessions. Perhaps, it is one of the safest treatment options available today, so you can give it a try.
How often to undergo treatment?
There is no standardized number when it comes to the frequency of treatments you need to undertake. The right frequency depends on the severity of your condition. Generally, it is seen that the time frame for any acupuncture treatment to show results is around four weeks with treatments occurring twice each week.
However, it is strongly recommended that you speak to your acupuncture specialist about the intricacies of your treatment and then proceed ahead.
2. Meditation and Yoga for ED
It is no secret that stress and anxiety are the major contributors to erectile dysfunction. Instead of taking medicines with dire side-effects, try yoga and meditation for a change. It calms the mind and body and aids in increased blood flow, which can, in turn, help manage ED effectively.
Why does it work?
As per research, men with an average age of 40 witnessed “significant improvement” in sexual scores after just 12 weeks of yoga practice. This sexual score comprised of the following factors: firm erections, increased desire, intercourse satisfaction, sexual performance, increased confidence, ejaculatory control, and orgasm.
How often should you do yoga?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to yoga. It depends on your stamina, lifestyle, and underlying needs. To begin with, join a yoga class under a certified expert or call a yoga teacher home. It is recommended that you continue the practice for at least a month regularly to experience any real benefits.
Also Read: Benefits of Yoga and Meditation for Alzheimer’s
3. Jelqing Exercises
A massage staple in the middle-east, jelqing has garnered a lot of attention in recent times. To put it simply, it is a type of massage technique for the penis that’s done with the sole purpose of improving the size of your erection.
Why does it work?
It stretches the penis muscles, thereby improving blood circulation and flow.
How often should you do it?
There’s no fixed template when it comes to trying out jelqing exercises, however, extreme care must be taken to ensure you don’t harm yourself. There are step-by-step guides available online that outline how you can try this exercise without causing yourself any undue harm. Please consult a doctor before you try this at home.
4. Counseling
One of the most effective yet underrated treatments for ED is counseling. It is seen that often erection issues stem from psychological and mood-related causes instead of physical ones. This is where guided counseling can trigger a dynamic shift in your outlook towards the problem and how you can address ED-related issues.
Why does it work?
Seeking help from a qualified counselor can help you ease up mentally, boost your self-confidence, and assist you in freely discussing your erection and/or relationship problems (which occurs as a by-product more often than not).
You’ll notice that just talking about it can help improve your erections and relieve any distress that your erections may be causing you. It ultimately helps you re-establish the intimacy you once shared with your partner.
How often should you go for counseling?
We can’t put a number or quantifiable value on the effectiveness of sex therapy. It all depends on how comfortable you are in each session, how the sessions are progressing, etc. Your doctor will help guide you to understand when you can stop the sessions and go solo!
CURE 4: Herbs for ED
Searching for a cure for erectile dysfunction dates back centuries. In fact, there are plenty of natural aphrodisiacs available to us that have been proven(12) to increase libido, potency, or sexual pleasure. Plus, they come with little or no side effects. Let’s take a look at the top-3 herbal remedies for treating ED:
1. Ginkgo Biloba
Some say that Ginkgo Biloba is the oldest tree known to man and offers a multitude of benefits. If the primary issue for ED comprises of circulatory issue, Ginkgo Biloba can be the most appropriate remedy for improving erectile function.
Why Does it Work?
Ginkgo leaves possess flavonoids and terpenes that can help relax artery walls, allowing more blood flow into the penis. Plus, it can aid in the synthesis of dopamine, the pleasure hormone, thereby stimulating sexual desire. Note that it can be used by women as an aphrodisiac tonic.
How to Use?
Ginkgo Biloba is generally taken in the supplement form. Please consult your doctor to understand the right dosage that can cater to your needs.
How Much to Use?
There is no standard dose of ginkgo biloba supplements, however, experts suggest you start with a low dose (120 milligrams daily) and increase it gradually. Note that it is best to consult your doctor before taking it in any form – herb or supplement.
2. Panax Ginseng
This 2000-year-old Chinese and Korean herb offers great health benefits and longevity. Typically, the roots of the red Korean Ginseng are used for treating ED in addition to addressing other health issues such as stamina, concentration, stress, and general wellness.
Why does it work?
Panax ginseng acts as an antioxidant, releasing nitric oxide (NO) that helps erectile functions. In some cases, people also use P. ginseng cream for premature ejaculation. Studies show that consuming Panax Ginseng displays the following benefits: penile rigidity, girth, duration of erection, improved libido, and great overall satisfaction.
According to a study(13), men being treated with Korean red ginseng showed 60% improvement in ED symptoms as compared to those on medication who displayed only 30% improvement in ED-related issues!
How to Use?
Commonly, red ginseng is sold in many different preparations including cream and in pill form. You can choose either form depending on your preference.
How Much to Use?
The recommended dose for Panax Ginseng is 1–2 grams in the raw form (ginseng root) or 200–400 mg of extract. When it comes to taking it as a supplement, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) suggests taking 900 mg(14) of red ginseng three times a day for improved erections.
Please note that care must be taken to not consume it for a longer period as it may cause insomnia. It’s best to consult a physician to understand its side effects better.
3. Yohimbine
This West African tree bark comes with a host of benefits. People have been using Yohimbine to activate the penile nerves, increase blood flow in the penis, stimulate the pelvic nerve and boost adrenaline supply, increase sexual desire, and prolong erections.
Why does it work?
One study displayed that 14 percent of the participants experienced full-stimulated erections, whereas another study found that 16 out of 29 men were able to reach orgasm and ejaculate post their treatment. It has been seen that a combination of yohimbine and L-arginine can significantly improve erectile function in people with ED.
How to Use?
Generally, yohimbine works best when taken as a supplement.
How Much to Use?
The studies conducted administered 20 milligrams of yohimbine per day, throughout the day. Please consult your physician before consuming it and read through its possible side-effects.
CURE 5: Supplements for ED
One area of erectile dysfunction where innovations have taken root at a staggering speed is supplements. People the world over are integrating supplements into their daily life due to its immediate and long-lasting benefits. So, it hardly comes as a surprise that around 52% of US citizens use at least 1 supplement according to a recent survey in the “Journal of American Medicine Association.”
1. L-arginine
L-arginine is an amino acid supplement that aids in the production of nitric oxide in the body – an important compound that helps maintain an erection.
Why does it work?
When taken in high doses, L-arginine can stimulate blood vessels to increase in size. This promotes blood flow (as much as 6X the normal flow!) which in turn, can lead to a longer erection. A study(15) published in the “Journal of Sexual and Marital Therapy,” concluded that 92.5 % of participants who received a combination of L-arginine and pycnogenol achieved a normal erection just after being treated for 3 months.
How to Use?
Research suggests that combining L-arginine, glutamate, and yohimbine hydrochloride can be regarded as one of the best treatments for ED.
How Much to Use?
This supplement may cause some side effects such as stomach upset, including cramping and diarrhea. Also, consuming it with Viagra can have adverse effects so it is highly recommended that you consult your doctor before self-prescribing this supplement.
2. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA as a supplement mirrors the effects of a natural steroid hormone in the body and may help treat ED in men.
Why does it work?
It is seen that natural DHEA level lower as a person ages. So, it becomes increasingly important to boost adrenal hormone that can create hormones responsible for improving sexual functions and energy levels. A 1999 study(16) published in the journal, “Urology” showed that DHEA treatment improved sexual performance.
How to Use?
It is typically consumed as a supplement and is considered safe when taken in low doses. So, please consult your doctor before taking it. Note: Acne is a possible side effect so make sure you keep yourself hydrated when taking it.
How Much to Use?
Note that the dosage for DHEA varies from person to person. The dosage range lies between 20-75 milligrams (mg) for a period of 6 months. In cases where men are taking high dosage, it ranges between 100-400 mg for a period of 8 weeks.
3. Vitamin D
A study suggests that people suffering from vitamin D deficiency can suffer from erectile dysfunction. Its findings show that of 3,400 participants, men with vitamin D deficiency were 32% more likely to have trouble with erections.
Why does it work?
Increased vitamin D levels can prevent erectile dysfunction.
How to Use?
Generally, people can take vitamin D supplements or have food that’s rich in this vitamin such as salmon, milk, and cheese. It is also recommended that you spend early morning hours outdoors and get as much sunlight as possible as it’s a great source for vitamin D.
How Much to Use?
The Institute of Medicine recommends daily vitamin D intake of 600 international units (IU) for adults (18-70 years of age), and 800 IU for those above 80 years of age. Note: Please consult a doctor before taking vitamin D supplements as too much of vitamin D can turn out to be toxic.
Common Myths about Erectile Dysfunction
- ED is a normal part of aging.
- Younger men don’t experience ED.
- Taking pills is the only way to effectively treat ED.
- Wearing tight underwear can cause ED.
- Masturbation causes ED.
- If you experience a troubling erection once, you have ED.
- ED only occurs when the penis has an underlying health issue.
Lifestyle Changes
Achieving and maintaining erection results from different parts of the body working collectively. Think of it like this: If a body part isn’t functioning properly, it’ll create a domino effect and affect your ED correspondingly.
If data is anything to go by, lifestyle choices form a major factor that can make or break your system functioning. So, let’s look at some holistic lifestyle changes you can embrace to ensure you don’t ever come face-to-face with ED:
1. Healthy Diet
A nutrient-deficient and poor diet can lead to lowered energy levels, clogged arteries, diabetes, and heart diseases – all of which can trigger erectile dysfunction. Hence, it is important to indulge in a diet that’s healthy for the heart and doesn’t constitute too many fats/sugar. The focus should be on consuming fruits and vegetables to enjoy a healthy sex drive and maintain your body weight.
Also Read: How to Lose Weight Fast: Best Diets, Workouts, and Tips
2. Regular Exercise
According to a recent study published in the “International Journal of Impotence Research,” the most important lifestyle factor influencing ED is a surprise, surprise: exercise. Plus, research also suggests that a sedentary lifestyle can increase your chances of experiencing ED by 2-10x!
We suggest you follow this simple mantra: Just 30 mins of exercise about 5 times a week. Trust us when we say that it can do wonders for your body, mind, and of course, ED. It not only reduces stress but also boosts energy levels and aids in better blood circulation.
3. Avoiding Smoking
There’s enough evidence today to prove that people who smoke cigarettes are at a greater disadvantage of experiencing ED. There’s only one way out: quit smoking. There’s plenty of professional help available to make the quitting process simple and bearable.
FAQs
1. What helps erectile dysfunction?
There are many ways in which ED can be treated. These include oral medications and supplements, counseling, surgery, undergoing lifestyle changes, consuming herbs that boost nitric oxide, among others. Whatever be the course, please speak with your doctor first to determine the best treatment for you.
2. Is erectile dysfunction common with aging?
In one word, the answer is no. ED doesn’t necessarily affect individuals as they age. It occurs due to a combination of other factors such as poor lifestyle, underlying health conditions, stress, emotional unhappiness, etc. While it is true that older men may need more stimulation to achieve an erection, they can still engage in sexual intercourse with greater ease.
3. What vitamins and supplements are good for erectile dysfunction?
A study in the “International Journal of Impotence Research” has curated a list of supplements and vitamins that boost Nitric Oxide production and preservation. This includes:
| Omega-3 fish oil | 1000 mg |
| Folic acid | 400 mg |
| Vitamin C-500 mg | 1000 mg |
| Vitamin E 200 UI | 200 mg |
| L-Citrulline | 2 gms |
| Pycnogenol | 50-120 gm |
| Green tea | 3 cups/day |
| Dark chocolate | 1 oz/day |
4. Can erectile dysfunction be avoided?
Yes. There are a number of lifestyle initiatives you can undertake to prevent ED such as maintaining a desirable weight, engaging in a healthy diet, quitting smoking altogether, drinking minimally, keeping your cholesterol and blood pressure in check, and ensuring you engage in physical activity at least three times a week.
5. Can medications such as viagra treat ED effectively?
Medications such as sildenafil citrate (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), and avanafil (Stendra) can cure ED successfully. However, they come with a few side effects so make sure to consult your doctor before consuming it.
The Writing is on the Wall
Erectile dysfunction may have become a common epidemic of sorts (nearly a third of the men in the world suffer from ED today) and around 90% of those suffering from ED, never go for treatment.
But here’s the truth: ED is treatable and even reversible! All you need is to embrace a balanced, holistic, and natural approach to address ED-related symptoms. Plus, it’s imperative to understand the underlying causes (it could be emotional, psychological, or physical) so that you can make an informed decision and choose the correct mode of treatment for uprooting the issue from its very source. They say ED is a barometer for cardiovascular health!
Generally, people prefer taking the a natural route when it comes to addressing health problems. This is why we strongly suggest you go “all natural” when it comes to adopting remedies that can cure ED. You don’t need to bow down to radical and painful treatments such as penile implants to address the issue at hand.
On the off chance that none of the above mentioned natural treatments are working in your favor, please consult a doctor for.