Sexual Performance Enhancing Herbs, Supplements, and Medications
Below is a geneal overview of several herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and prescription drugs that have been used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Be sure to consult with your doctor before using any of these remedies.
This information is not an endorsement for any of the remedies, supplements, or prescriptions mentioned below.
Arginine
How it works in ED
Precursor to nitric oxide that open the blood vessels
Reported dose
2 – 30 grams per day
Side effects
May worsen outbreaks of cold sores or genital herpes
Asian GinsengHow it works in ED
Overcomes stress and fatigue and enhances physical performance
Reported dose
200 – 500 mg per day up to 1,800 mg per day for ED (use 2-3 weeks then stop for 1-2 weeks)
Side effects
Irritability
Nervousness
Insomnia
Headache
Breast pain
High blood pressure
DamianaHow it works in ED
It not known how damiana works
Reported dose
2 – 4 grams of dried leaf three times per day or
18 grams of powdered herb in a tea three times per daySide effects
Diarrhea
Hallucinations
Decreased liver function
Low blood sugar
GinkgoHow it works in ED
Opens blood vessels and improves erection if ED is from blood flow problems
Reported dose
120 to 240 mg per day in divided doses
Side effects
Headache
Seizures
Intestinal gas
Increased bleeding
Mania
Maca root
How it works in ED
Increases energy, improved physical performance, treats low libido
Reported dose
750 mg capsules (3-4) per day – reduce dose after 2-3 weeks
Side effects
No adverse effects have been reported
YohimbeHow it works in ED
Stimulates central nervous system
Reported dose
5.4 mg three times per day for mail impotence
Reduce to 2.7 mg three times per day if adverse effects occur
Side effects
Irritability
Agitation
Dizziness
Headache
Mania
High blood pressure
Fast heart rate
Loss of appetite
Painful or difficult urination
Kidney failure
The medications below are available by presciption only.
ViagraHow it works in ED
Allows enhanced blood flow into penis with stronger erection
Reported dose
25 – 100 mg per day (not to exceed 100 mg per day)
Do NOT take if using nitroglycerin for angina
Tolerance may develop requiring higher doses for the same effect
Side effects
Headache
Flushing of the skin
Blue tint to the vision
Low blood pressure
Heartburn
Nasal congestion
Priapism
CialisHow it works in ED
Allows enhanced blood flow into penis with stronger erection
Reported dose
5 – 20 mg per day
Do NOT take if using nitroglycerin for angina
Side effects
Headache
Flushing of the skin
Low blood pressure
Heartburn
Nasal congestion
Priapism
LevitraHow it works in ED
Allows enhanced blood flow into penis with stronger erection
Reported dose
5 – 20 mg per day
Do NOT take if using nitroglycerin for angina
Side effects
Headache
Flushing of the skin
Low blood pressure
Heartburn
Nasal congestion
Priapism