Erectile dysfunction (ED) is increasing becoming a popular condition among men as they grow older and among men suffering from conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

There is still high stigma surrounding erectile dysfunction, also referred to as impotence, with many men refusing to speak about it or even seek medical attention. Symptoms of ED include reduced libido or sexual desire, lack of an erection or inability to hold an erection for long.

There are different ways to treat ED including oral medication such as Viagra, injections, vacuum pumps, penile implants, surgery and natural remedies. Most men prefer using natural remedies because they don’t interfere with other medical conditions or medications one might be taking.

There are many natural remedies that are now popular as a cure for ED. Each has its own set of pros and cons. It’s therefore, important to understand how eas works before you start using them.

1. Panax Ginseng

This is the herbal Viagra and is one of the most highly recommended and effective natural remedy. Ginseng contains anti-inflammatory action and is effective in improving blood flow as well as lung function making is easier to have an erection. This herb is recommended for people who have high lipids.

It’s very important that you take the right dosage of ginseng for it to work. Recommended dosages range from 600 to 1,000 milligrams to be taken three times daily.

2. Yohimbe

This is another popular ED supplement that if taken in correct amounts can have positive effects on your sexual performance. The Yohimbe supplement is extracted from the bark of the African yohimbe tree. Consult your doctor before you begin taking this supplement as it may worsen heart disease in heart disease patients.

3. DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a natural hormone that is produced by adrenal glands. Your body then converts the hormone to estrogen and testosterone. DHEA supplement is produced from wild yam and soy. ED causes low levels of DHEA especially in men who have diabetes. DHEA supplement is believed to improve blood flow thus managing ED.

4. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is also known as “golden root” and is used to enhance endurance. The supplement is effective in reducing fatigue common in ED patients. It however, doesn’t show positive effects unless you take between 150 to 200 mg daily for three months. There are no reported side effects of Rhodiola Rosea.

5. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba works by promoting blood flow to the penis increasing your libido and ability to have and hold an erection. It is also used to treat blood disorders and memory issues. Doctors recommend 40 or 60 milligrams of Ginkgo biloba twice a day for four weeks. It causes side effects such as stomach upsets and diarrhea.

6. L-arginine

L-arginine is naturally present in your body as an amino acid that makes nitric oxide. Nitric oxide makes your blood vessels relax to allow blood flow which then causes an erection. The more L-arginine is present in your body the better your sexual performance. ED patients experience low levels of the amino acid hence why it’s recommended to take 5 grams of L-arginine daily.

7. Pomegranate

This fruit has juice and extracts full of nutrients that help your arteries to expand and stay supple improving blood flow to your penis which is important for enhanced sexual performance.

While these are natural remedies, remember to consult your doctor before you start taking any one of them just to be sure that they are the best treatment course for you.