Improving Libido and Male Function, Naturally

‘Issues with male function’ denotes a variety of problems, including those related to impotence and lack of desire. Statistical data shows that 10–52% of males ranging between 40–70 years of age  (or 200-330 million men worldwide!) will experience various difficulties related to male function, both on a physical and emotional level. The causes for male dysfunction are many and may include diabetes, joint problems, hypertension, excess blood lipids, smoking and/or chronic alcoholism. Hormonal difficulties such as low testosterone and thyroid disorders as well as medications (for diabetes, blood pressure, antidepressants etc) can also affect male function.

Although there are drugs, such as Viagra, that may help improve male function, many men choose to turn to natural support, possibly because of the sensitivity of the issue at hand and due to the lower risk of side effects.

Herbal and natural medicine have a long history of use as an improver of male function. In recent years, scientific research has delved into their ability to strengthen male function and desire.   

These 4 plants are most commonly used in traditional medicine to support and improve male function.

1. Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus Terrestris has been used for many years in Indian and Chinese herbal medicine to support male function and desire.

• Several research studies determined that taking Tribulus Terrestris extract for 2 months improved male desire by 80%, without any hormonal effect on Testosterone levels.
• In various scientific studies on men with fertility problems, lack of Testosterone and impotence problems, researchers concluded that taking Tribulus extract resulted in a significant improvement in erectile power and male function.
• A placebo-controlled clinical study from Bulgaria of men with moderate–severe impotence found that 3 months of taking Tribulus Terrestris extract resulted in a significant improvement in male function and marital desire.
• A clinical study of men with low sperm count found that taking Tribulus Terrestris for 60 days significantly improved male function at a rate of 49%, as compared to 27.8% in the placebo group.

Researchers and clinical studies show that Tribulus Terrestris may help men suffering from impotence and low libido.

Note: In cases of impotence, a doctor should be consulted before taking Tribulus Terrestris to rule out any underlying causes, such as diabetes or heart disease.

2. Damiana (Tornera)

Damiana is known in Western herbal medicine as an aphrodisiac plant that improves male desire. British herbal medicine refers to Damiana as a specific treatment for issues related to impotence, and as a plant that supports the normal functioning of the reproductive organs.

• Various studies confirm the use of Damiana to help strengthen the normal functioning of the reproductive organs.

Arbutin and flavanoids have been identified as the active components of Damiana.

3. L-Arginine

L-arginine is an amino acid (one of the building blocks of protein) which undergoes metabolism in the human body to become nitrite-oxide. Nitrite-oxide causes blood vessels in the body to dilate, significantly improving blood flow in the arteries to the tissues and organs, including the extremities. It is common to combine L-arginine with various medical herbs to increase the effect of the natural components.

• A placebo-controlled study of men with mild-moderate impotence determined that taking L-arginine along with another medicinal plant for 4 weeks significantly improved the male function and potency.
• In a study published by the ‘Journal of Marital Therapy and Sex’, researchers found that taking L-arginine in along with an antioxidant herbal component helped improve male function. After 1 month of taking the supplement, 92% of men experienced a completely normal function. The study also notes that the supplement did not cause side effects (as compared to conventional drug treatment, which may cause side effects). 

4. Cinnamon Bark

Cinnamon is a spice and medicinal plant  that is extracted from the bark of the evergreen tree that grows in the provinces of India. Traditional Indian medicine, which promotes holistic health, has used cinnamon to support all issues related to male potency. Indian medicine refers to cinnamon as a ‘blood-moving plant’, which improves circulation to the tissues and organs of the body, including the extremities.

• Studies have found that components of cinnamon have the ability to inhibit an enzyme called arginase, thereby allowing L-arginine to act as a dilator for a longer time.
• Studies on diabetes models reported that taking cinnamon extract caused an improvement in male function, improved indices of sperm quality and quantity, and increased testosterone levels.
• Additional studies indicate that cinnamon has a regulating effect on blood sugar levels. This may be helpful for situations of impotence due to high blood sugar levels.
• Cinnamon also contains powerful antioxidants that protect the blood vessels and improve blood flow to the delicate blood vessels.
• Studies in Israel indicate that cinnamon has a calming effect on the nervous system.

Disclaimer: Medicinal plants are not drugs. The purpose of this article is to provide a  general overview of approaches in complementary medicine and the information provided does not constitute a qualified medical recommendation. This article is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Always contact your health practitioner before starting any nutritional supplement programs.

: