Viagra’s blockbuster success in treating erectile dysfunction has spawned a whole host of copycats. While the blue pill is great for generating instant results, it’s also highly addictive and prone to causing more problems than it solves.
If you’re looking for an alternative to Viagra that actually offers benefits, check out these 10 natural supplements – some of which are even safer than the drug itself.
Chamomile Flower Extract
Chamomile flower extract is perhaps the best herbal alternative to Viagra because of its mild yet effective actions on the genitals. The compound can both stimulate and relax muscles, helping to initiate and maintain an erection. In addition, the flower’s extract boosts blood flow to the organs, including the penis, improving their function.
Grapefruit
The health benefits of grapefruit are countless, so it’s always a safe bet to incorporate the fruit into your diet. But did you know that it can also be used to enhance your sexual health? Grapefruit contains a compound called naringenin, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It may also be able to temporarily improve erectile dysfunction by reducing inflammation in the penis.
L-Arginine
L-Arginine is an amino acid commonly found in the body that plays a key role in multiple metabolic processes. One of its most well-known functions is in vasodilation – meaning it widens and dilates blood vessels – which in turn enhances blood flow to the genitals and promotes an erection. It’s also worth noting that, when used in combination with yohimbine, an amino acid that similarly improves sexual function, the two compounds work synergistically to further improve sex drive and potency. Though a bit more expensive than other supplements, ordering online is convenient and cheap.
Muira Puama Bark Extract (Mundulea micrantha)
Like grapefruit, the health benefits of the mango tree (Mundulea micrantha) are numerous. Used in traditional medicine for centuries, the bark extract from the tree has strong aphrodisiac properties. It promotes blood flow to the genitals, thus enhancing relaxation and pleasure during sexual activity. In a similar fashion to yohimbine and arginine, the extract also acts as a vasodilator, encouraging blood flow and resulting in harder and more sustained erections. Like many supplements, the price is somewhat higher than average, but it’s still considered a relative bargain.
Bacopa Monnieri (Common Name: Bawadagi)
Also known as “night-flowering Venus’s herb” or the “plant of plenty”, Bacopa is a plant native to central and southern India. Despite its relatively small size, it can produce large amounts of the compound Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the effects of marijuana. In addition to acting as a natural alternative to Viagra, Bacopa also helps to treat various forms of depression and anxiety. It’s considered to be relatively safe, though there are some theoretical risks associated with THC use.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Another safe, natural option for ED treatment, Panax ginseng can be found in health food stores and most large supermarkets. Its primary compound, ginsenoside, enhances blood flow throughout the body, including to the penis. In animal studies, ginseng was found to improve erectile function even when administered post-mortem, suggesting that it can help to restore potency to the deceased. Though there are no known negative side effects, it’s always advisable to consult with a doctor before taking supplements, especially if your body mass index (BMI) is above 25.
Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera)
Ashwaganda is a flowering plant that originates from the Indian subcontinent. The extract from the plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine in that region. Its primary compound, Withaferin-A, has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is able to reduce fever and discomfort. In addition, the herb has hypotensive effects and can lower cholesterol, therefore lowering the risk of heart disease. Perhaps most intriguingly, it seems that the compound possesses aphrodisiac properties. Though there are no clinical studies supporting these findings, decades of traditional use mean it’s probably safe to assume that ashwaganda can increase libido and promote erectile function.
Camellia Sinensis (Chinese Tea Tree)
Finally, Chinese tea tree, also known as “Japanese spice tree” or “hinotobi”, is widely cultivated for its essential oil, which is distilled to create “red tea”. The leaves and flowers of the tree contain significant amounts of caffeine, which provides further evidence of its psychoactive properties. In both traditional and modern Chinese medicine, the tea tree flower bud (or “Qing Hao” in Chinese) is widely regarded as an aphrodisiac. Its oil is also said to be highly effective in strengthening the body’s “qi” (life force) and eliminating toxins. Though relatively expensive, it’s still considered a worthwhile investment considering its effectiveness and small size. The essential oil is also compatible with most sex toys, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking to enhance their lovemaking experience with a vibrator or other similar item.
Chamomile Flower and Extract (Recutita Matricaria)
Often confused with its relative, chamomile flower, the German physician and pharmacologist Dr. Wilhelm Schmidt proposed in 1897 that the two flowers (which contain similar compounds) be used together. Since then, there’s been little scientific research into the combination. What we do know is that the combination of the two compounds (especially when used at high doses) can lead to a more potent and prolonged erection. Though you may occasionally find them together for sale in a pharmacy, be sure to purchase the flower extract if you want to put Dr. Schmidt’s theory to the test.
Summary
As you can see, there are several natural remedies that can help to improve your sexual health. Many of these compounds have been used for centuries and have a good record of safety and effectiveness. They may also be able to help to reduce some of the side effects that come with pharmaceutical drugs. Which ones will be the best for you depends on your personal preferences and what works best for your body. What’s important is that you try out at least one of these remedies and see how you feel after using it. If it works well for you, great! If it doesn’t seem to have the desired effect, you can try a different option.