Erectile dysfunction is a common affliction that can have many underlying causes, including lack of physical fitness or a problem with your general health. A strong can go a long way in supporting healthy male function. If you want to try natural remedies before medicine or surgery, or if western medicine has not so far worked for you, there are many natural solutions available which can help defeat erectile dysfunction.
Diet
According to the Urology Channel's "Erectile Dysfunction: Natural/Alternative Treatments," erectile dysfunction can be treated by eating right, drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugar, dairy and caffeine. They recommend to eat whole, fresh, unrefined and unprocessed foods, including vegetables, whole grains, soy, beans, seeds, nuts, olive oil and cold-water fish such as salmon and tuna.
Taking your vitamins can also help; the Urology Channel suggests supplements such as flaxseed, and in particular vitamins C, E and the mineral zinc. These vitamins and supplements help bolster the vascular system, which is an important part of good sexual health.
Exercise
Since sexual health relies on the vascular system, a strong heart plays an important part in treating erectile dysfunction. Aerobic exercises such as power walking, running, bicycling or dancing strengthen the cardiovascular system. A stronger cardiovascular system gives stronger support to the vascular system that supports a .
The Urology Channel's guide recommends kegel exercises--exercises that flex the pelvic muscle-- which are helpful in strengthening the ligaments that support an erection. These exercises can also increase blood flow in the pelvic area, which can aid in achieving a strong erection.
Herbs
According to "The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook," herbs which are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to support healthy erectle function include ginseng, ginger and ginkgo biloba.
Ginseng helps increase blood circulation, and is typically taken as a dried powder, often as a paste mixed with honey. "One Earth" suggests 3 to 9 g of dried ginseng powder per day to treat circulatory disorders. Ginkgo biloba also increases blood flow in the arteries, which help support the vascular functions that enable a healthy erection.
"One Earth" also recommends garlic as a treatment for erectile disorders, but the treatment can be tough to take: the trick to getting the most out of garlic is to chew fresh, uncooked garlic very thoroughly. Though it is unpleasant and can be downright painful, this allows your body to absorb powerful natural nutrients through the blood vessels in the mouth. Some of the most powerful ingredients in garlic are destroyed as they travel through the digestive system, and these erectile dysfunction-fighting nutrients are only absorbed while chewing.
Tags: vascular system, erectile dysfunction, Urology Channel, blood flow, cardiovascular system, healthy erection