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Ask the Herbalist_questions on Sexual Issues
helps our bodies make estrogen and testosterone, and a recent trial at the University of Vienna found it helped men
with impotence.
Additional herbs that have shown some benefit in small studies include the stress reliever Panax ginseng and the
hard-to-find Brazilian herb Muira puama. In a study at Yonsei University College of Medicine in Korea, 60% of men
who took Panax ginseng were better able to achieve an erection, versus 30% in those who took a placebo; in animals,
the herb appears to boost testosterone levels. And at the Institute of Sexology in Paris, more than half of men who
took Muira puama responded positively within two weeks.
Finally, many potency formulas contain the African tree bark yohimbe, which some studies have shown may correct
impotence and possibly heighten libido. However, this herb can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure, as well as
anxiety and other side effects. Many doctors prefer the purified form of the herb, the FDA-approved drug yohimbine,
instead, because it has a guaranteed purity and potency.
Additional Remedies
Other popular but unproved therapies that may provide a boost for sexual function include aromatherapy (vanilla for
confidence; rose for mood), hypnosis, meditation, acupuncture, and homeopathy. In a recent study from the
Netherlands, twice-weekly acupuncture relieved impotence in 39% of men after four weeks. Off-the-shelf homeopathic
remedies such as Vigorex, an ultra-diluted solution of oats (Avena sativa) that is thought to free up testosterone, are
also popular, though expert Dana Ullman, M.P.H., advises that people see a professional homeopath to get
individually tailored remedies.
Passion Potions
Can Super Sex, Biagra, or any of the countless other high-priced passion potions and aphrodisiacs sold at health-food
stores or pharmacies restore your sex drive? Probably not. Many contain a long list of ingredients, some of dubious
value. Check the label carefully to make sure the product delivers an adequate dose of natural compounds that have
been shown to help (see chart below). "Unless it has a sufficient amount of the active ingredient, the product is not
likely to be effective," says Dr. Murray.
Instead of a blend, you may be better off buying an individual ingredient tailored to your particular condition.
Allow at least several weeks to see if it works for you.
In Search of that Lovin' Feelin' :
Arginine
Who Might Benefit? Men or women who have circulatory disorders that may be contributing to sexual problems;
boosts blood flow. Suggested Dose 1 gram 3 times a day; sold as L-arginine.
DHEA
Who Might Benefit? Men or women with low levels of this hormone, as determined by doctor; helps the body make
estrogen and testosterone. Suggested Dose 5 mg each morning for women; 10 mg for men; increase dose if doctor
advises.
Ginkgo biloba
Who Might Benefit? Sometimes recommended for men or women on Prozac or other antidepressants; boosts blood
flow. Suggested Dose 80 mg 3 times a day, standardized to contain 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene
lactones.
Ginseng (Panax)
Who Might Benefit? Men with impotence. May also benefit men or women with stress-induced loss of libido.
Suggested Dose 100 to 250 mg twice a day, standardized to contain at least 7% ginsenosides.
Muira puama
Who Might Benefit? Called potency wood in Brazil; only one small study in men has been conducted to date.
Suggested Dose As tea, 1 tsp. dried herb per cup of water each morning.
Yohimbe
Who Might Benefit? May boost blood flow, but has serious side effects.
Suggested Dose Opt for the prescription drug yohimbine instead. See your doctor.
Additional Herbs:
Avena sativa (oat extract, said to free up testosterone); damiana (Mayan herb that may boost blood flow); guarana
(caffeine-rich soda imported from Brazil); maca (Peruvian herb used for menopause and impotence); tribulus (possible
testosterone and libido booster). Little or no research has been done on these herbs. An appropriate dose cannot be
determined at this time.
Further reading: Stephen Lamm, M.D., The Virility Solution re, 1999); Marc Bonnard, M.D., The Viagra
Alternative (Healing Arts Press, 1999)
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