Natural aphrodisiacs in dietary supplements for potency: effective components
I. Review of the problem and potential solutions
Erectile dysfunction (Ed), or impotence, is an inability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. This is a common condition that can affect men of all ages, although its prevalence increases with age. The causes of ED are diverse and can include physiological factors (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hormonal disorders, neurological disorders), psychological factors (stress, anxiety, depression, lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol abuse, obesity, lack of physical activity).
Traditional treatment methods of ED include pharmacological drugs such as FDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, avanafil), injections in the penis, vacuum devices and surgical intervention. However, these treatment methods can have side effects and are not always suitable for all men. In this regard, many men turn to alternative treatment methods such as biologically active additives (dietary supplements) containing natural aphrodisiacs in the hope of a milder and natural approach to improving potency.
II. What are natural aphrodisiacs?
Aphrodisiacs are substances that allegedly increase libido, sexual attraction, sexual arousal and/or sexual function. The name comes from the Greek goddess of love and beauty of Aphrodite. Natural aphrodisiacs include various herbs, plants, minerals, vitamins and food, which are believed to have properties that contribute to sexual health.
The mechanisms of action of natural aphrodisiacs are diverse and may include:
- An increase in blood flow to the genitals: Some aphrodisiacs, such as L-Arginine and Gingko Biloba, can improve blood circulation, expanding blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the penis, which contributes to an erection.
- Increase in testosterone levels: Testosterone is the main male sex hormone that plays a key role in sexual function, libido and erection. Some aphrodisiacs, such as Tertris and Damian tribulus, can help increase testosterone levels.
- Reducing the level of stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can negatively affect sexual function. Some aphrodisiacs, such as Ashvaganda and Rodiula Pink, have adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress and reduce anxiety.
- Improving mood and energy: Some aphrodisiacs, such as Peruvian poppy and ginseng, can improve mood, improve energy and reduce fatigue, which can indirectly help improve sexual function.
- Antioxidant Protection: Oxidative stress can damage cells and tissues, including those that are involved in sexual function. Some aphrodisiacs, such as grenade and vitamin E extract, have antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage to free radicals.
III. Effective components in dietary supplements for potency: natural aphrodisiacs
The market for potency offers a wide selection of products containing various natural aphrodisiacs. However, the effectiveness of these additives can vary depending on the quality of the ingredients, dosage and an individual reaction of the body. Below is a review of the most common and investigated natural Aphrodisiacs used in dietary supplements for potency:
1. L-Arginin:
- Description: L-Arginine is an amino acid that plays an important role in the production of nitrogen oxide (No). No is a vasodilator that relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow.
- The mechanism of action: L-Arginine turns into no in the body. No expands blood vessels in a penis, improving blood flow and contributing to erection.
- Research: Some studies have shown that L-arginine can improve the erectile function, especially in combination with other ingredients such as pycnogenol.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 3 to 6 grams per day.
- Side effects: They may include stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.
2. Tribulus Terrestris (Tribulus Teretstris):
- Description: Tribulus Terrestris is a plant that is traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat various diseases, including sexual dysfunction.
- The mechanism of action: It is believed that Tribulus Terrestris increases the level of testosterone, although the evidence of this is limited. It can also improve libido and sexual satisfaction. Some studies suggest that it can strengthen the release of no.
- Research: Some studies have shown that Tribulus Terrestris can improve sexual function and libido in men. However, other studies did not show a significant effect on testosterone levels.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 250 to 750 mg per day.
- Side effects: They may include stomach disorder and insomnia.
3. Panax Ginseng (ginseng):
- Description: Ginseng is a plant known for its adaptogenic properties, that is, the ability to help the body adapt to stress. There are various types of ginseng, including Korean red ginseng, American ginseng (Panax Quinquefolius) and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus). Korean red ginseng is considered the most effective for improving sexual function.
- The mechanism of action: Ginseng can improve erectile function, increasing the level of No, improving blood circulation and reducing stress levels. It can also increase testosterone levels and improve mood.
- Research: Many studies have shown that ginseng can improve erectile function and sexual satisfaction in men.
- Dosage: It is usually used in dosages from 1 to 3 grams per day for root powder or from 200 to 400 mg per day for extract.
- Side effects: They may include insomnia, nervousness and headache.
4. Maca (Maka Peruvskaya):
- Description: Maca is a root that grows in the Andes in Peru. It is traditionally used to increase energy, endurance and libido.
- The mechanism of action: The mechanism of action of poppies is not completely understandable, but it is believed that it can affect the hormonal balance, improve blood circulation and increase the level of dopamine.
- Research: Some studies have shown that poppy can improve libido and sexual function in men, but does not affect the level of testosterone.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 1.5 to 3 grams per day.
- Side effects: It is usually well tolerated, but can cause stomach disorder in some people.
5. Horney Goat Weed (Epimedium):
- Description: Horney Goat Weed is a plant that is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat sexual dysfunction.
- The mechanism of action: The active component of Horney Goat Weed is Ikariin, which is the FDE-5 inhibitor, like Sildenafil (Viagra). Ikariin blocks the FDE-5 enzyme, which destroys NO, thereby contributing to the expansion of blood vessels in the penis and improve the erection.
- Research: Some studies have shown that Ikariin can improve the erectile function in animals. However, studies in public are limited.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 500 to 1000 mg per day.
- Side effects: They may include dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
6. Damiana (Damians):
- Description: Damiana is a plant that is traditionally used in Mexico and Central America as an aphrodisiac and antidepressant.
- The mechanism of action: It is believed that Damian increases libido, improves mood and reduces anxiety. The mechanism of action is not completely understandable, but can be associated with the influence on neurotransmitters in the brain.
- Research: Research in humans is limited, but some studies have shown that Damian can improve sexual function in women.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 400 to 800 mg per day.
- Side effects: They may include headache, insomnia and hallucinations in high doses.
7. Pycnogenol (pycnogenol):
- Description: Picnogenol is an extract of the crust of the French sea pine, rich in antioxidants.
- The mechanism of action: Picnogenol improves blood circulation, increases the level of no and protects the cells from damage by free radicals.
- Research: Some studies have shown that pycnogenol in combination with L-arginine can significantly improve erectile function.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 40 to 120 mg per day.
- Side effects: It is usually well tolerated, but can cause stomach disorder in some people.
8. Ginkgo Biloba (ginkgo biloba):
- Description: Ginkgo biloba is a plant that is traditionally used to improve memory and cognitive functions.
- The mechanism of action: Ginkgo biloba improves blood circulation, expanding blood vessels and reducing blood viscosity. It also has antioxidant properties.
- Research: Some studies have shown that ginkgo bilobe can improve erectile function, especially in men taking antidepressants who can cause sexual dysfunction.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 120 to 240 mg per day.
- Side effects: They may include headache, dizziness and stomach disorder.
9. Zinc (zinc):
- Description: Zinc is an important mineral that plays a role in many body functions, including the production of testosterone and sperm.
- The mechanism of action: Zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and a deterioration in sexual function.
- Research: Some studies have shown that zinc additives can improve testosterone levels and sexual function in men with zinc deficiency.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of zinc is 11 mg for men. In dietary supplements, a dosage of 15-30 mg per day is often used.
- Side effects: In high doses, zinc can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Long -term intake of high doses of zinc can lead to a shortage of copper.
10. Selenium (Selen):
- Description: Selenium is a trace element that is an important antioxidant and plays a role in the production of testosterone and sperm.
- The mechanism of action: Selenium protects the cells from damage by free radicals. It is also necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, which plays a role in the regulation of hormones, including testosterone.
- Research: Some studies have shown that selenium additives can improve sperm quality and fertility in men.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of selenium is 55 mcg for adults. In dietary supplements, a dosage of 100-200 mcg per day is often used.
- Side effects: In high doses, selenium can cause nausea, vomiting and hair loss.
11. Vitamin E (Vitamin E):
- Description: Vitamin E is a fat -soluble vitamin, which is a powerful antioxidant.
- The mechanism of action: Vitamin E protects the cells from damage by free radicals, including the cells of the genitals. It can also improve blood circulation and endothelial function (inner membrane of blood vessels).
- Research: Some studies have shown that vitamin E additives can improve sperm quality and fertility in men.
- Dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin E is 15 mg. In dietary supplements, a dosage of 100-400 IU per day is often used.
- Side effects: In high doses, vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding.
12. Yohimbe (Yohimbe):
- Description: Yochimba is an extract of the African tree of the Johmbe.
- The mechanism of action: Yochimbe blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which leads to the expansion of blood vessels in the penis and improve the erection. It can also increase the level of adrenaline and norepinephrine, which can increase libido.
- Research: Some studies have shown that Yochimb can improve erectile function.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 5.4 to 10.8 mg per day.
- Side effects: They may include anxiety, insomnia, a rapid heartbeat and an increase in blood pressure. Yochimba is not recommended for people with cardiovascular diseases, anxiety or kidney problems.
13. Muira Puama (Muira Puama):
- Description: Muira Puama is a plant that grows in the Amazon, which is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac.
- The mechanism of action: The mechanism of action of Muir Puam is not completely understandable, but it is believed that he can improve blood circulation, increase libido and reduce stress.
- Research: Some studies have shown that Muira Puama can improve the sexual function in men and women.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 1 to 1.5 grams per day.
- Side effects: It is usually well tolerated, but can cause stomach disorder in some people.
14. Cordyceps (Cordyceps):
- Description: Cordyceps is a mushroom that is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to increase energy, endurance and libido.
- The mechanism of action: Cordyceps can improve blood circulation, increase testosterone levels and improve the function of the immune system.
- Research: Some studies have shown that Cordyceps can improve sexual function and fertility in men.
- Dosage: Usually used in dosages from 1 to 3 grams per day.
- Side effects: It is usually well tolerated, but can cause stomach disorder in some people.
IV. Factors affecting the effectiveness of dietary supplements:
The effectiveness of dietary supplements for potency containing natural aphrodisiacs may depend on a number of factors:
- The quality of the ingredients: It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who use high -quality ingredients. Some products may contain low -quality or fake ingredients, which can reduce their effectiveness.
- Dosage: The dosage of the ingredients should be sufficient to achieve the therapeutic effect. Some products may contain too low the dosage of the ingredients, which makes them ineffective.
- Individual reaction: An individual reaction to dietary supplements can vary. What works for one person may not work for another.
- The main reason Ed: Dietary dietary supplements with natural aphrodisiacs can be more effective for men with ED caused by psychological factors, stress or a slight deficiency of hormones. They can be less effective for men with ED caused by serious physiological causes such as cardiovascular diseases or diabetes.
- Life: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, refusal to smoking and moderate use of alcohol, can improve the effectiveness of dietary supplements and general sexual health.
- Interaction with drugs: It is important to consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements, especially if you take any medicine. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines and cause side effects.
V. Risks and side effects:
Although natural aphrodisiacs are usually considered safe, they can cause side effects in some people. It is important to consider the following risks:
- Side effects: As indicated above, each aphrodisiac has its own profile of side effects.
- Interaction with drugs: Some aphrodisiacs can interact with drugs such as anticoagulants, antidepressants and medicines for blood pressure.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergies to certain plants or ingredients contained in dietary supplements.
- Lack of regulation: The dietary supplement market is less regulated than the pharmaceutical industry. This means that the quality and safety of dietary supplements can vary. It is important to choose products from reliable manufacturers who test their products.
- Unproven effectiveness: Although many natural aphrodisiacs have been used for centuries, scientific evidence of their effectiveness is often limited. It is important to have realistic expectations regarding the results of dietary supplements.
- Hidden ingredients: Some dietary supplements may contain hidden ingredients, such as pharmaceuticals that are not indicated on the label. It can be dangerous to health.
VI. The importance of consulting a doctor:
Before taking dietary supplements for potency containing natural aphrodisiacs, it is important to consult a doctor. The doctor may:
- Evaluate the cause of Ed and exclude serious medical conditions.
- Evaluate your risks and determine whether dietary supplements with natural aphrodisiac are suitable for you.
- Recommend a suitable dosage and reception mode.
- Assess the possible interactions with the drugs that you take.
- Provide information about other treatment methods ED.
VII. Sexual Health Strategies:
In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are a number of strategies that can help maintain sexual health and improve potency:
- Healthy lifestyle: Balanced nutrition, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep, rejection of smoking and moderate alcohol consumption can significantly improve sexual function.
- Reducing stress: Stress can negatively affect sexual function. Find the ways to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga or conducting time in nature.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can contribute to Ed. Losing weight can improve sexual function.
- Management of chronic diseases: Control over chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, can help improve sexual function.
- Regular sexual relations: Regular sexual activity can help maintain sexual function.
- Psychological help: If Ed is caused by psychological factors such as anxiety or depression, an appeal to a psychologist or sexologist can be useful.
- Communication with a partner: Communication with a partner about your needs and desires can improve sexual satisfaction.
VIII. Future research areas:
Additional studies are needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of natural aphrodisiacs in the treatment of ED. Future research should be focused on:
- Conducting randomized controlled studies using standardized extracts and adequate dosages.
- Study of the mechanisms of action of natural aphrodisiacs at the cellular and molecular level.
- Studying the interaction of natural aphrodisiacs with drugs.
- Determining long -term safety and the effectiveness of the use of natural aphrodisiacs.
- Development of standardized methods for assessing the effectiveness of natural aphrodisiacs.
IX. Final remarks:
Natural aphrodisiacs can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle for men suffering from Ed. However, it is important to remember that the effectiveness of these additives can vary, and it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking the appointment. The choice of dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers, the use of adequate dosages and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can increase the chances of success. It is important to have realistic expectations and understand that dietary supplements are not a replacement for traditional methods of treatment of ED.