Natural aphrodisiacs in dietary supplements for men

Natural aphrodisiacs in dietary supplements for men: detailed review

Part 1: Fundamentals and Concepts

1.1. What is an aphrodisiac? Historical and modern view

Aphrodisiac is a substance that stimulates sexual desire that enhances sensuality and improves sexual function. The name comes from the name of the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite. The use of aphrodisiacs has a long story dating back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, India and China, various herbs, spices and foods were used, which were considered to have stimulating properties. Faith in their effectiveness was often based on the observed effects associated with energy, mood and general well -being.

In the modern world, the understanding of aphrodisiac evolves. Scientific research strives to identify substances that have a real physiological or psychological effect on sexual function. This includes the study of their influence on the hormonal balance, blood circulation, the nervous system and the psychological state. It is important to note that many substances that are traditionally considered aphrodisiacs have limited scientific support, and their effectiveness is often due to the effect of placebo or psychosomatic factors.

1.2. Mechanisms of action of natural aphrodisiacs

Natural aphrodisiacs can affect the sexual function in various ways, including:

• Increase in hormone levels: Some substances can stimulate the production of testosterone, estrogen or other hormones that play an important role in sexual attraction and function. For example, some herbs can affect the hypothalamus and pituitary gland that regulate hormonal activity.
• Improving blood circulation: For a normal erectile function, good blood supply to the genitals is necessary. Some aphrodisiacs have vasodilating properties, improving blood flow and, therefore, potency. Nitrogen oxide (NO) is a key mediator of this process, and some substances can stimulate its production.
• Impact on the nervous system: Some aphrodisiacs can affect neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine, which play a role in mood, excitement and sensuality. For example, some substances can increase the level of dopamine associated with pleasure and motivation.
• Reducing stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can negatively affect sexual function. Some aphrodisiacs have adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to stress and improving overall well -being.
• Improving the general state of health: Some substances can have a positive effect on the general state of health, which indirectly helps to improve sexual function. For example, an improvement in the cardiovascular system or a decrease in cholesterol.
• Psychological effect: An important factor is the psychological impact of aphrodisiacs. Faith in their effectiveness, pleasant taste or aroma can cause positive emotions and enhance sexual desire.

1.3. Dietary supplements as a form of taking aphrodisiacs: advantages and disadvantages

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals, herbs and other substances designed to supplement the diet. Bades containing natural aphrodisiacs have become a popular way to improve sexual function and increase libido in men.

Advantages of dietary supplements:

• Convenience: Bades are easy to take in the form of tablets, capsules or powders.
• Accessibility: Many dietary supplements can be purchased without a prescription in pharmacies, healthy food stores and online.
• Concentration: Bades contain concentrated doses of active substances, which can increase their effectiveness.
• Complex approach: Some dietary supplements contain a combination of several aphrodisiacs and other useful ingredients, providing a comprehensive effect.
• Discreteness: Reception of dietary supplements is discrete and does not require a visit to a doctor (in most cases).

Disadvantages of dietary supplements:

• Lack of strict regulation: The production and sale of dietary supplements is often not subjected to the same strict control as drugs. This can lead to problems with quality, cleanliness and dosage.
• Insufficient scientific validity: The effectiveness of many dietary supplements with aphrodisiacs is not confirmed by sufficient scientific research.
• Risk of side effects: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, especially with an overdose or interaction with other drugs.
• The risk of drug interaction: Bades can interact with other drugs, changing their effectiveness or causing undesirable side effects.
• Possibility of falsification: On the market there are fake dietary supplements containing not declared ingredients or hazardous substances.
• Do not always correspond to the declared composition: Studies have shown that the composition of dietary supplements does not always correspond to information on the label.

1.4. The importance of consulting a doctor before taking dietary supplements

Before you start taking dietary supplements containing natural aphrodisiacs, it is extremely important to consult a doctor. This is due to several reasons:

• Assessment of health: The doctor can evaluate the general state of health, identify the presence of any diseases or conditions that may be a contraindication for receiving dietary supplements.
• Identification of possible interactions with drugs: The doctor can check whether dietary supplements will interact with any drugs that the patient takes.
• Determining the cause of sexual dysfunction: Sexual dysfunction can be caused by various factors, including physiological, psychological and social. The doctor can help determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
• Individual selection of dietary supplements: The doctor can help choose the most suitable dietary supplement, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body and health status.
• Control over effectiveness and safety: The doctor can control the effectiveness and safety of admission of dietary supplements and timely identify any side effects.

Ignoring consultation with a doctor can lead to undesirable consequences, including deterioration in health, inefficiency of treatment and the occurrence of side effects.

Part 2: Review of the most common natural aphrodisiacs in dietary supplements for men

2.1. Ginseng (Panax Ginseng)

• Description: Ginseng is a perennial plant growing in East Asia. It is known for its adaptogenic properties and is traditionally used to increase energy, improve cognitive functions and strengthen the immune system.
• The alleged mechanism of action: Ginseng can affect the hormonal balance, increasing testosterone levels and improving blood circulation. It can also have an antioxidant and anti -inflammatory effect, contributing to the improvement of the general state of health.
• Scientific data: Some studies show that ginseng can improve erectile function and increase libido in men. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dosage. The meta-analysis of research showed the moderate positive effect of ginseng on the erectile function.
• Side effects and contraindications: Ginseng can cause insomnia, nervousness, headache and an increase in blood pressure. It is contraindicated in people with autoimmune diseases, pregnant and lactating women, as well as people taking anticoagulants.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Ginseng is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, powders and extracts. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and concentration of active substances.

2.2. Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii)

• Description: Maka Peruvian is a plant that grows in the high -mountain regions of the Andes in Peru. It is known for its nutritional properties and is traditionally used to increase energy, improve fertility and increase libido.
• The alleged mechanism of action: Maca contains amino acids, minerals and other nutrients that can maintain hormonal balance and improve blood circulation. It can also have an antioxidant effect, protecting the cells from damage.
• Scientific data: Studies show that poppy can improve erectile function and increase libido in men and women. It can also improve sperm quality and fertility. The meta-analysis of research has confirmed the positive effect of poppies on the sexual function.
• Side effects and contraindications: Maca is considered safe for most people, but in rare cases can cause stomach disorder, insomnia and hormonal changes. It is contraindicated in people with thyroid diseases and pregnant women.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Poppy is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, powders and extracts. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and concentration of active substances.

2.3. Tribulus Tribulus Terrestris)

• Description: Tribulus Terrytris is a plant that grows in various regions of the world. It is traditionally used to increase testosterone levels, improve sports results and increase libido.
• The alleged mechanism of action: The tribulus contains saponins that can stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone. It can also have a vasodilating effect, improving blood circulation.
• Scientific data: Some studies show that tribulus can improve erectile function and increase libido in men. However, the research results are ambiguous, and additional studies are needed to confirm these results. The meta-analyzes showed conflicting results, some indicate a slight improvement, others do not find a significant effect.
• Side effects and contraindications: The tribulus can cause stomach disorder, nausea and insomnia. It is contraindicated in people with prostate diseases and pregnant women.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Tribulus is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, powders and extracts. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and concentration of active substances.

2.4. Эпимедиум (Epimedium)

• Description: The epimedium, also known as “goats of the grass”, is a plant that grows in Asia. It is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to increase libido, improve erectile function and treatment of osteoporosis.
• The alleged mechanism of action: The epimedium contains Ikariin, which is an inhibitor of phosphodesterase-5 (FDE-5), an enzyme that destroys nitrogen oxide (NO). An increase in level of no improves blood circulation in the genitals, which contributes to erection.
• Scientific data: Studies show that the epimedium can improve erectile function and increase libido in men. It can also have a positive effect on bone tissue. Animal studies have shown positive results, however, clinical studies in public are limited.
• Side effects and contraindications: Epimedium can cause dizziness, nausea and dry mouth. It is contraindicated in people with diseases of the cardiovascular system and pregnant women.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: The epimedium is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, powders and extracts. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and concentration of active substances.

2.5. 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 relaxing blood vessels and improve blood circulation.
• The alleged mechanism of action: L-Arginine turns in the body into NO, which expands blood vessels and improves the blood supply to the genitals. This promotes erection and increases libido.
• Scientific data: Studies show that L-arginine can improve the erectile function in men with mild and moderate erectile dysfunction. However, it can be less effective in men with severe erectile dysfunction. The meta-analyzes showed that L-arginine can be useful in combination with other drugs.
• Side effects and contraindications: L-Arginine can cause stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea. It is contraindicated in people with herpes, low blood pressure and receiving nitrates.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: L-Arginine is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets and powders. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and individual needs.

2.6. Yohimbe (Pausinystalia Johimbe)

• Description: Yochimbe is a tree growing in Africa. Yochimba Cora contains yochimbin, which is alpha-2 adrenergic shower.
• The alleged mechanism of action: Yochimbin blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which leads to the expansion of blood vessels and the improvement of blood supply to the genital organs. It can also increase the level of norepinephrine, which stimulates the nervous system and increases the libido.
• Scientific data: Studies show that yochimbin can improve erectile function and increase libido in men. However, it can cause serious side effects, and it should be taken only under the supervision of a doctor.
• Side effects and contraindications: Yochimbin can cause anxiety, insomnia, an increase in blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat and tremor. It is contraindicated in people with diseases of the cardiovascular system, mental disorders and taking antidepressants. The use of a yochimbin is associated with the risk of serious side effects, and it should be avoided without medical consultation.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Yohimbe is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules and extracts. The dosage can vary depending on the form of the release and concentration of yocimbine.

2.7. Zinc

• Description: Zinc is an important mineral that plays a role in many body functions, including the immune system, wound healing and testosterone synthesis.
• The alleged mechanism of action: Zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and a decrease in libido.
• Scientific data: Studies show that zinc supplements can increase testosterone levels in men with zinc deficiency. However, zinc additives do not have a significant effect on testosterone levels in men with a normal zinc level.
• Side effects and contraindications: High doses of zinc can cause stomach disorder, nausea and vomiting. It can interact with some drugs such as antibiotics and diuretics.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Zinc is available in dietary supplements in the form of tablets, capsules and chewing sweets. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and individual needs.

2.8. Selenium

• Description: Selenium is an important trace element that plays a role in antioxidant protection, immune system and reproductive function.
• The alleged mechanism of action: Selenium is necessary for the health of sperm. It protects sperm from oxidative damage and improves their mobility.
• Scientific data: Studies show that selenium supplements can improve sperm quality and fertility in men with low selenium levels. However, selenium additives do not have a significant effect on sperm quality in men with a normal level of selenium.
• Side effects and contraindications: High doses of selenium can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and hair loss. It can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Selenium is available in dietary supplements in the form of tablets, capsules and liquid additives. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and individual needs.

2.9. Damiana (Turnra Diffusa)

• Description: Damiana is a shrub that grows in Central and South America. It is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac for the treatment of anxiety and depression.
• The alleged mechanism of action: It is believed that Damiana affects the nervous system and hormonal balance, contributing to relaxation and increase in libido. However, the exact mechanisms of action have not been fully studied.
• Scientific data: The scientific research of Damians is limited. Some small studies on animals have shown that it can increase sexual activity. However, additional studies in humans are needed to confirm these results.
• Side effects and contraindications: Damian can cause stomach disorder and headache. It is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with liver and kidney diseases.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Damiana is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets and tea. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and individual needs.

2.10. L-Citrullin

• Description: L-Citrullin is an amino acid that turns into L-Arginine in the body. As mentioned earlier, L-Arginine plays an important role in the development of nitrogen oxide (No).
• The alleged mechanism of action: L-cyrullin increases the level of L-arginine in the body, which, in turn, contributes to the production of No. No expands blood vessels and improves blood supply to the genitals, which contributes to erection and increases libido.
• Scientific data: Studies show that L-Citrullin can improve the erectile function in men with mild and moderate erectile dysfunction. Some studies show that L-Citrullin can be more effective than L-Arginine, since it is better absorbed by the body.
• Side effects and contraindications: L-cyrullin is usually well tolerated, but in rare cases it can cause stomach disorder. It is contraindicated in people with hypotension (low blood pressure) and taking nitrates.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: L-Citrullin is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets and powders. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and individual needs.

2.11. Ashwagandha (withania somnifera)

• Description: Ashvaganda is an adaptogenic grass used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is traditionally used to reduce stress, increase energy and improve cognitive functions.
• The alleged mechanism of action: Ashvagand can reduce the level of cortisol (stress hormone) and increase testosterone levels. It can also have an antioxidant and anti -inflammatory effect.
• Scientific data: Studies show that Ashvagand can improve sperm quality, increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function in men. She can also reduce stress and anxiety.
• Side effects and contraindications: Ashvagand can cause stomach disorder, drowsiness and decrease in blood pressure. It is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with thyroid diseases.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: Ashvaganda is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, powders and extracts. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and concentration of active substances.

2.12. Пажитник сенной (Trigonella grass-Greek)

• Description: Sennaya fan is a plant used in cooking and medicine. It is traditionally used to increase testosterone levels, improve digestion and stimulate lactation in lactating women.
• The alleged mechanism of action: The fenced car contains saponins that can stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone. It can also improve insulin sensitivity and reduce cholesterol.
• Scientific data: Studies show that the fences can increase testosterone levels, improve libido and improve sperm quality in men.
• Side effects and contraindications: The fencing can cause stomach disorder, diarrhea and gas formation. It can interact with anticoagulants and insulin. It is contraindicated in pregnant women.
• Output forms in dietary supplements: The fencing is available in dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets and powders. The dosage can vary depending on the form of release and concentration of active substances.

Part 3: Factors affecting the effectiveness of dietary supplements with aphrodisiacs

3.1. Quality and source of raw materials

The effectiveness of dietary supplements directly depends on the quality of the raw materials used. It is important to consider:

• The origin of the plant: Plants grown in optimal conditions (soil, climate), as a rule, contain more active substances.
• Growing method: Organic cultivation without the use of pesticides and herbicides guarantees the purity of raw materials.
• Gathering time: The time to collect the plant can affect the concentration of active substances.
• Extraction method: The extraction method affects the concentration and bioavailability of active substances. Methods that retain the maximum amount of useful compounds are preferred.
• Availability of certificates: The presence of quality certificates (for example, GMP, ISO) confirms the compliance of production with standards and ensures the quality of raw materials.

3.2. Dosage and output form

The correct dosage and form of release play an important role in the effectiveness of the dietary supplement.

• Dosage: It is necessary to follow the recommended dosage indicated on the packaging. Too low dose may not have the desired effect, but too high – cause side effects. The dosage should correspond to age, weight and general health.
• Output form: Different forms of release (capsules, tablets, powders, extracts) have a different speed of assimilation. Capsules and extracts, as a rule, are absorbed faster than tablets. Powers allow you to adjust the dosage more accurately.
• Bioavailability: Bioavailability is the amount of active substance that enters the bloodstream and has an effect on the body. Some forms of release and extraction methods can improve the bioavailability of active substances.

3.3. Individual characteristics of the body

The effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body, such as:

• Age: With age, metabolism slows down, and dietary supplement efficiency can decrease.
• Weight: People with overweight may require a higher dose of dietary supplement.
• Health status: The presence of chronic diseases can affect the assimilation and effectiveness of dietary supplements.
• Take of other drugs: Bades can interact with other drugs, changing their effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Sensitivity: Individual sensitivity to dietary supplements can vary.

3.4. Combination with other dietary supplements and medicines

It is important to consider the interaction of dietary supplements with other dietary supplements and drugs.

• Synergism: Some dietary supplements can enhance each other’s action with joint administration (synergism). For example, L-Arginine and L-Citrullin can have a more pronounced effect on an erectile function with joint administration.
• Antagonism: Some dietary supplements can weaken the action of each other with joint administration (antagonism).
• Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or causing side effects. For example, yochimbin can enhance the effect of antidepressants, and ginseng can interact with anticoagulants.

3.5. Life and diet

Life and diet have a significant impact on the effectiveness of dietary supplements with aphrodisiacs.

• Healthy lifestyle: Regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and decrease in stress contribute to improving sexual function and increase the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
• Balanced nutrition: Nutrition, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and healthy fats, provides the body with the necessary nutrients and improves the overall state of health.
• Restriction of bad habits: Smoking, the use of alcohol and drugs negatively affect the sexual function and reduce the effectiveness of dietary supplements.
• Sufficient water consumption: Sufficient water consumption is necessary for the normal functioning of the body and the assimilation of dietary supplements.

3.6. Psychological factor

The psychological state plays an important role in sexual function.

• Placebo effect: Belief in the effectiveness of Bad can have a positive effect on sexual function, even if it does not have real pharmacological properties (placebo effect).
• Reducing stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can negatively affect sexual function. Bades with adaptogenic properties (for example, Ashvaganda) can help reduce stress and anxiety, improving the sexual function.
• Improving self -confidence: Improving sexual function can increase self -confidence and improve the quality of sexual life.

Part 4: risks and side effects

4.1. Possible side effects of natural aphrodisiacs

Each of the above Aphrodisiacs can cause certain side effects, varying in terms of severity and probability of occurrence. It is important to remember that an individual reaction to the supplement can differ significantly.

• Ginseng: Insomnia, nervousness, headache, increased blood pressure, gastrointestinal disorders, allergic reactions.
• Maka Peruvian: Disorder of the stomach, insomnia, hormonal changes (in rare cases), allergic reactions.
• TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: Disorder of the stomach, nausea, insomnia, increased aggressiveness (in rare cases), allergic reactions.
• Epimedium: Dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat (in rare cases), allergic reactions.
• L-arginine: Disorder of the stomach, nausea, diarrhea, decrease in blood pressure (in rare cases), aggravation of herpes.
• Yohimbe: Anxiety, insomnia, an increase in blood pressure, heart heartbeat, tremor, dizziness, headache, gastrointestinal disorders, mental disorders (in rare cases). Yochimbe can be dangerous and requires medical consultation.
• Zinc: Disruption of the stomach, nausea, vomiting, a metallic taste in the mouth, a decrease in immunity with prolonged use in high doses.
• Selenium: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, fatigue, nervousness.
• Damians: Stomach disorder, headache, allergic reactions.
• L-Citrullin: Disorder of the stomach (in rare cases), a decrease in blood pressure (in rare cases).
• Ashwaganda: Disorder of the stomach, drowsiness, decreased blood pressure, allergic reactions.
• Fenugreek: Disorder of the stomach, diarrhea, gas formation, allergic reactions, the smell of the fanity in sweat and urine.

4.2. Risks of drug interaction

Bades containing natural aphrodisiacs can interact with various drugs, changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. The most common examples:

• Anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin): Ginseng, garlic, ginkgo biloba and other dietary supplements with anticoagulant properties can enhance the effect of anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Antidepressants (SIOZS, IMAO): Yochimb can interact with antidepressants, causing an increase in blood pressure, anxiety and other side effects. St. John’s wort (Hypericum Perforatum), used to treat depression, can interact with many drugs, including antidepressants, antibiotics and antiviral drugs.
• Medicines for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases (nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers): L-Arginine and L-Citrullin can reduce blood pressure, which can increase the effect of drugs for the treatment of hypertension and lead to hypotension. Yochimb can increase blood pressure and interact with drugs for the treatment of hypertension.
• Medicines for the treatment of diabetes (insulin, metformin): The fencing can reduce blood sugar, which can enhance the effect of drugs for the treatment of diabetes and lead to hypoglycemia.
• Immunocationthretarite: Ginseng can stimulate the immune system and reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppressants.

Before taking dietary supplements with aphrodisiacs, you need to consult a doctor in order to make sure that there is no interaction with the drugs taken.

4.3. Risks associated with poor -quality dietary supplements and falsification

The dietary supplement market is not always strictly regulated, which creates risks associated with low -quality products and falsification.

• The inconsistency of the composition of the declared: The composition of the dietary supplement may not correspond to the information indicated on the label. Bad may contain an insufficient amount of active substances, impurities, pollutants or even hazardous substances.
• Lack of quality standards: Bad production may not comply with quality standards (GMP), which leads to problems with the purity, efficiency and safety of the product.
• Falsification: There are fake dietary supplements on the market that may contain unexpected ingredients or hazardous substances. Falsified dietary supplements can pose a serious threat to health.

In order to minimize the risks associated with poor -quality dietary supplements and falsification, it is necessary to buy dietary supplements dietary supplements, check the availability of quality certificates and pay attention to the reviews of other consumers.

4.4. Contraindications to receive dietary supplements with aphrodisiacs

There are certain contraindications for taking dietary supplements with aphrodisiacs, due to the state of health, taken medications and other factors. The main contraindications include:

• Diseases of the cardiovascular system (hypertension, arrhythmia, coronary heart disease): Yochimba and other stimulating substances can increase blood pressure and increase the heart rate, which is dangerous for people with heart diseases.
• ** Mental disorders (anxiety disorder, depression, schizophrenia):