Male Sexual Health

What is impotence?

Impotence is also known as erectile dysfunction (ED) and can be characterised as the inability for a man to achieve and maintain an erection when intending to engage in sexual intercourse.

According to statistics from the NHS, it has been estimated that approximately 50% of men between 40 and 70 years of age will experience erectile dysfunction at least once.

A true diagnosis of erectile dysfunction is one which persists over a number of weeks or months, which have deeper underlying issues that need addressing. As opposed to a random occasion which may be due to acute causes such as temporary stress or performance anxiety in an initial encounter.

Psychological issues and relationship problems, such as depression, emotional problems can also have an impact. These issues can be addressed with a variety of alternative healing methods, counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

There are certain lifestyle choices which can greatly contribute to causing impotence. Smoking can deposit fat in the arteries which can affect circulation and cardiovascular health. Regular consumption of alcohol can alter a mans hormonal balance unfavourably. Exercising a few times per week can help balance stress levels and improve circulation in the body.

A natural approach

Pharmaceutical agents for impotence do not solve the root cause of the issue and have potential consequences such as cardiovascular risks, digestive disturbances and dependency to name a few. A natural approach to impotence will address the underlying issues and not mask the symptoms.

Cardiovascular health 

More and more research is suggesting that poor cardiovascular health is associated with impotence and that impotence could be a symptom of cardiovascular disease.

Hawthorn berry has been shown to improve cardiovascular health and circulation. Ginkgo is another herb which has the ability to improve circulation to the periphery and can also help in such circumstances.

Cacao is rich in flavanols which can relax the blood vessels thereby allowing better blood flow and improved circulation. Cacao is also considered an aphrodisiac, as it contains neurotransmitters which are identical to those we produce when we are happy and in love.

Stress 

Chronic stress due to lifestyle choices can be disastrous to virility. It can affect one on both body and mind levels. Stress hormones can alter our hormonal profile thereby lowering our sex hormones responsible for normal health. In addition, stress hormones can constrict the blood vessels in the body thereby leading to poor circulation and potentially ED. Acute stress due to performance anxiety can also affect a man's ability to have an maintain an erection.

Lifestyle choices to lower stress, and also taking herbs to help balance stress hormones can be useful. Some of those herbs include ashwagandha, rhodiola and ginseng root.

Hormonal Balance 

Tribulus and maca are natural herbs that can help with balancing any hormonal issues. These hormonal imbalances can be a result of high-stress levels or due to environmental factors such as xenoestrogens from our food packaging, altering the hormonal profile unfavourably.