Erectile dysfunction, or the inability to get an erection and carry on with sex, is a staggeringly prevalent condition affecting millions of men around the world. You cannot have sex without an adequate erection. While there are several treatment options for ED, most men turn to vitamins and supplements as natural ways to improve sexual function. In this article, we will see five of the most suitable ED vitamins and supplements.
1. L-arginine
L-arginine is an essential amino acid that contributes to the body’s production of nitric oxide (NO). Nitric oxide is a vasodilator that dilates blood vessels and enhances circulation, a critical element to producing and maintaining an erection. Studies suggest that L-arginine could alleviate ED symptoms by increasing the production of nitric oxide and improving the circulation to the penis.
In a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials conducted in 2019, L-arginine supplementation dramatically reduced symptoms of ED in mild-to-moderate ED men. They also found that L-arginine was safe and well tolerated, with no major side effects. Yet we must emphasize that L-arginine is unlikely to help men who suffer from severe ED or other underlying disorders, including diabetes or heart disease.
2. Panax Ginseng
Panax Ginseng or Korean Red Ginseng is a widely used herbal supplement that has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine. Panax Ginseng active ingredients known as ginsenosides have multiple pharmacological effects such as enhanced cognition, energy levels and ED reduction.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials concluded that Panax Ginseng significantly increased erectile function in men with ED over the course of two weeks when compared with placebo (Liu et al, 2015). The researchers concluded that Panax Ginseng might be a suitable and safe ED treatment option for men who are unable or unwilling to use medication.
3. Zinc
Most vital body functions — including the immune system, healing of wounds, and reproduction — depend on the mineral zinc. Zinc also helps manufacture testosterone, a component essential to sexual function and health. Some studies suggest that men with ED have less zinc than men without ED.
For example, a 2018 study from the Journal of Sexual Medicine revealed that men with ED had substantially lower serum zinc levels than men without ED. The researchers also observed that zinc supplementation greatly reduced ED symptoms in men lacking zinc. They concluded that zinc supplementation could be an appealing second line therapy for men with ED, especially those with low zinc levels.
4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that’s essential for bone health, immune function and general wellness. Vitamin D deficiencies have been associated with various diseases, including ED. According to one study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, men with ED had far lower levels of Vitamin D than men without ED (Safarinejad, 2009).
In addition, in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, Vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced ED symptoms in Vitamin D deficient men (Safarinejad, 2010). The results indicated that Vitamin D could contribute to the pathophysiology of ED and that Vitamin D supplementation could be an effective and safe way to treat ED in Vitamin D-deficient men.
5. Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries to treat several ailments, including ED. It is thought to work by stimulating the production of certain hormones in the body, such as testosterone, that can enhance libido and sexual function.
ED-Is Tribulus terrestris the best ED vitamin and supplement? Here’s what you need to know:
How Does Tribulus Terrestris Work?
Tribulus terrestris consists of several active substances, including steroidal saponins. They are believed to stimulate production of testosterone by increasing the body’s levels of luteinizing hormone. Testosterone is a vital hormone as far as sexual function is concerned. It plays a key role in the pathways that determine libido, erections and sperm production.
A number of trials have confirmed the use of Tribulus terrestris for ED. In one study, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, men given Tribulus terrestris reported a more than 50% increase in erectile function compared with men given placebo. Another, published in the journal Andrologia, endorsed its efficacy for ED in men with low sperm counts.
Tribulus Terrestris for ED: What Might It Do?
There are, among others, the possible ED-friendly effects of Tribulus terrestris on testosterone and sexual function – which can offer other, more real-world ED-friendly benefits for men. These are:
Good blood flow: Limited studies, however, have shown that Tribulus terrestris can help increase blood flow, an aspect extremely critical for creating and maintaining an erection.
lowering anxiety : anxiety and stress may make ED worse. Tribulus terrestris can relieve anxiety and give you a feeling of relaxation that can boost sexual function.
Increased endurance: Tribulus terrestris can contribute to improved endurance and stamina thus facilitating sexual performance.
Possible Complications of Tribulus Terrestris?
Typically, when administered in prescribed doses, tribulus terrestris is harmless. But, as you may know, side effects such as these can occur:
Upset stomach
Nausea
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Blood pressure alteration
Before using Tribulus terrestris, be sure to talk to your physician. It should be used before taking this or any other ED supplement. This is especially true with any disease and any medication as it may block certain drugs.
Conclusion:
Finally, while there are various ED remedies, these five vitamins and supplements can be added to your diet to help you maintain a better sexual function. L-arginine, Panax Ginseng, Zinc, Vitamin D, Tribulus Terrestris can contribute towards erectile function and sex health. But regular exercise, a balanced diet and lifestyle de-stressing are important for optimal sexual function.
