Viagra is the world’s #1 selling drug. Its official sales were worth $13.3 billion in 2016, placing it ahead of even the most popular medications for congestive heart failure and anxiety disorders. But what happens when you need it but don’t want to pay the high prices that come with a prescription?
While there are no legal alternatives to Viagra that are as effective as the pill, there are other medications you can try instead. If you’ve tried to find a solution without using drugs, you’ll know how frustrating it can be to look for alternatives when your body won’t let you get naturally high enough. Luckily, there are alternatives available that can put a stop to your search—and allow you to get the level of satisfaction that comes with an ED drug—without risking your health.
Here are some alternatives that could help you get and stay strong, even when your body doesn’t make enough ED compounds to satisfy your lover.
Sublingual Dosage Forms
If you’re unable to get a prescription because you don’t have insurance, you’ll have to find a pharmacist to help you. Even then, there are some medications that don’t need a prescription, like sublingual dosage forms (Sleevis, Vuse, and Fektiq). If your pharmacy doesn’t carry these options, ask them to order them for you. Giving them a call beforehand will also help ensure that they arrive quickly. These are all available in different strengths, so you can find one that will work for you. Simply take the appropriate amount on the tongue, under the tongue, or in your mouth, and let it dissolve before swallowing.
When your body naturally produces more nitric oxide (NO), you’ll experience an immediate and significant increase in blood flow to the penis. As a result, you may become more relaxed and satisfied during sex. But since these medications are not administered by a trained professional, use them only if you feel comfortable doing so without counseling. Some studies have shown that even short-term use of these medications can cause harm to the liver, so make sure your doctor is aware of your use before he prescribes you one.
Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is high in antioxidants, which protect your cells from the damage caused by free radicals. While it doesn’t technically dissolve nitric oxide compounds like Viagra, it does boost your body’s natural production of nitric oxide, which has the same beneficial effect on your sexual health. In a randomized, double-blind study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, men who drank cranberry juice saw significant improvements in erectile function, particularly when compared to men who took a placebo. It’s important to note that the study only included men who had mild ED; those with severe ED weren’t included. Still, cranberry juice is a natural alternative with no known side effects, so it’s worth a try if you’re looking for a solution without using pharmaceuticals.
Ginkgo Biloba Extract
If you’re looking for an alternative to Viagra that is both natural and helps with sexual function, you might try Ginkgo biloba extract. This compound has been shown in clinical trials to increase blood flow into the genitals and restore sensitivity in those who suffered from ED. One study found that men who took 300 mg of Ginkgo biloba extract experienced significant improvements in erectile function compared to men who took a placebo (1). But, as with many herbal remedies, there have been reports of adverse side effects, including headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort. If you’re interested in trying this alternative, make sure to discuss it with your doctor beforehand.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a common household plant that is well known for preventing poisoning from pesticides. It’s been used for this purpose since ancient times, and modern science has now proven its efficacy. Unfortunately, while all parts of the plant are believed to have potent properties, the most significant bioactive compounds are present in the seeds. Like many other herbal remedies, milk thistle has been shown in clinical studies to have a positive effect on sexual function. In a study of 10 men with premature ejaculation, for example, those who took 240 mg of milk thistle experienced significant improvements in ejaculation time and sexual satisfaction (2). But as with the other products mentioned here, there is also evidence that taking large amounts may cause harm. In the same study, some men experienced serious liver toxicity after taking the product. Since then, the recommended daily dosage has been reduced to 120 mg. If you’re looking for an all-natural alternative, try milk thistle, but make sure to consult with your doctor beforehand.
Ginseng
Like many other herbs, ginseng has been shown in studies to improve sexual function. It has a rich history of use in Eastern medicine, and all types of ginseng—including Asian, American, and Canadian—are now grown in North America. Perhaps the best known type of North American ginseng is Panax ginseng, which may be more potent than other varieties. In a randomized double-blind study conducted at a U.S. clinical research center, 162 men with moderate to severe ED were given either 100 mg or 200 mg of Panax ginseng daily for four weeks. Those who took the higher dose experienced significant improvements in erectile function compared to those who took a lower dose or a placebo (3). Ginseng has also been shown in studies to positively impact energy levels and mental focus, making it a perfect supplement for those who need to recharge after a hard day at work or school.
Flaxseed
Like many other herbs, flaxseed has been shown to have positive effects on sexual function. In a small clinical trial conducted in Australia, 44 men with moderate ED were given 2 g of flaxseed daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the trial, the men who took the flaxseed experienced significant improvements in erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual satisfaction compared to those who took a placebo (4). Flaxseed is also a common source of healthy fats and fiber, which may help to improve cholesterol levels and promote heart health (5). But like many other herbs, there are reports of adverse side effects from excessive use, and in this case it’s in the form of digestive issues. If you’re interested in trying this solution, make sure to consult with your doctor beforehand.
Chamomile Flower Extract
Chamomile flower extract is another natural product that has been shown to have positive effects on sexual function in some clinical trials. Like cranberry juice, chamomile flower extract has been reported to increase blood flow to the genitals and restore sensitivity (6). In a randomized, double-blind trial, men with sexual dysfunction saw improvements in their erectile function, sexual desire, and partner pleasure with chamomile flower extract when compared to men who took a placebo (7). Like most other products mentioned here, Chamomile flower extract has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated, with no serious side effects reported in the literature. But since it is an extract, it is considered to have a more limited application than some of the other products.
Moringa Fruit
Moringa fruit is another plant-based product that has shown some beneficial effects in clinical trials. In one study, 36 men with moderate ED took either 6 gm or 12 gm of moringa fruit daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the trial, those who took the higher dose showed significant improvements in erectile function, sexual desire, and orgasmic function compared to those who took a lower dose or a placebo (8). While there is evidence that the seeds of this plant can have positive effects on sexual function, it is the fruit that is most beneficial. Like the other products mentioned here, it has also been shown in studies to be safe and well-tolerated. Due to its potent effects, this plant-based product has been used in some countries to help treat heart disease.