6 Ways to Naturally Treat Erectile Dysfunction

byAlisha Bridges Patient Advocate

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)is not the “old man” disease you may think it is. Research published by the Journal of Sexual Medicine finds that, within the study, a quarter of men between the ages of 17-40 suffered from sexual impotence. The most shocking part is that 48 percent of these men were under 40. Reasons for ED vary for each individuals, but there are some natural treatments that all can try.

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You are not alone

Studiesreveal there are about 18 million men who suffer from ED, and many do so in silence. This condition not only causes embarrassment but can have a negative effect on a man’s confidence and self-image. It can also effect a spouse who may be left feeling incapable of providing fulfillment. Here are eight natural ways to solve erectile dysfunction.

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Exercise to promote the release of sex hormones

One possible reason for ED is a low male libido. The hormone testosterone is responsible for many things, including sex drive. If low, it could affect a man’s ability to get and maintain an erection. This issue is often found in men who are obese. Exercise can help promote the increase of testosterone.

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Lose the weight, gain more blood flow

For many men, weight is a huge factor of ED. The extra pounds themselves can change a man’s ability to get an erection. A study released byThe Journal of the American Medical Associationreveals that men who have a BMI (Body Mass Index) higher than 28 percent are 30 percent more likely to suffer from ED compared to those with a lower BMI. Extra pounds can prevent proper blood flow to the penis, leaving it to remain flaccid no matter how much he may desire sex.

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Try an herbal remedy

Studieshave found that dosages ranging from 600mg to 1,000mg of red ginseng up to three times a day can possibly help with ED.Red Ginsengis a root from a tropical plant found in China. But no worries, there is no need to travel to another continent for possible relief. You can find this herb in health stories everywhere across the country. It has other health benefits to offer as well!

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Poke around with some acupuncture

Acupuncture used to be a taboo form of treatment. Discovered in China, it has now been accepted by western society and used to treat several aliments of the body, including ED. According to herbalist and acupuncturist Robert Linde, this treatment in conjunction with a good diet can be helpful in eliminating ED. In thisvideohe revels what point needs to be stimulated in order to correct the condition.

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“Use it or lose it” – exercises may help

Not treating ED can have detrimental and irreversible results. “The penis,” urologist William O. Brant explains, “is a use it or lose it organ. [If not used it] will shrink and atrophy.” That means the penis will no longer be able to maintain length, and if it does it harden it may be shorter than before. Doing Kegel exercises, which can be foundhere, can help promote erections.

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Add a little zinc to your life

Although solid research on zinc and its correlation with sexual health needs more review,researchers foundthat zinc therapy on male rats improved sexual competence. Low levels of zinc could mean troubles in the bedroom. Natural herbalists swear by zinc therapy, stating that it’s a guaranteed way to help with libido and better erections! If you are interested in this type of therapy, it’s best to have your zinc levels tested to see if they are low.

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It could be all in your head

Although ED is common and usually easy to solve, it is best to consult a licensed professional before making any drastic decisions on how to handle your condition. If your issue is more psychological than physical, it may also benefit you to schedule counseling to help reduce depression and restore confidence. Just know you are not alone and there is aid out there to help get your sex life back.

Please consult with a professional before deciding on a treatment.

Meet Our Writer
Alisha Bridges

Alisha Bridges has dealt with psoriasis since 7 years old after a bad case of chicken pox triggered her disease to spread on over 90% of her body. For years she hid in shame afraid of what people would think of such a visible disease. She has suffered from depression, anxiety, and panic attacks due to psoriasis. Years ago Alisha wrote a letter entitled “My Suicide Letter.” The letter was not about actually killing herself but killing parts of her like low self-esteem, fear, and shame so she could truly live to her fullest potential. This proclamation catapulted her into psoriasis and patient advocacy. Following this letter she created a blog entitled Being Me In My Own Skin where she gives intimate details of what it’s like to live with psoriasis. Alisha is a community ambassador for the National Psoriasis Foundation and has served her community in countless ways to help give a better understanding of what’s it’s like to live with psoriasis. Her life motto is the following: “My purpose is to change the hearts of people by creating empathy and compassion for those the least understood through transparency of self, patient advocacy, and dermatology.” Alisha is also a Social Ambassador for the HealthCentral Skin Health Facebook page.