While speaking of sex openly is considered taboo in most parts of the world, imagine speaking of its problems! Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is one such problem related to sexual activity in males. Researchers and doctors have constantly been working to identify the cause and remedies. While allopathy has Viagra, Ayurveda has Ashwagandha.
This article discusses erectile dysfunction and how beneficial Ashwagandha could be for Erectile dysfunction.
What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
When a male cannot have an erection in his penis or cannot hold it firm enough to perform intercourse, we term such a condition to be Erectile Dysfunction. Most men face that situation once in a while, at least once in their lifetime. Men over the age of 40 mainly experience it. But if the situation persists and occurs regularly, it is a cause of concern.
The two significant factors which lead to ED are:-
- Psychological factors affect men when they are stressed, face performance pressure, unhappy with their physicality, anxious, low on confidence, or not comfortable with the partner.
- Physical: factors affect men when they reach a certain age, experience an accident leading to physical damage, or any medical conditions
A combination of the above factors could also cause ED in a few.
While there are a few allopathic medicines that aid in dealing with Erectile Dysfunction, they do come with side effects. Therefore, of late, many people turn towards Ayurvedic medicines, which offer Ashwagandha, a herb that is considered to help men with sexual problems. Although the herb has many uses, there is no substantial evidence that ashwagandha benefits for erectile dysfunction.
What is Ashwagandha?
It is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used for over 3000 years as medicine. Ashwagandha is majorly found in India, Asia and Africa. Usually, the roots and berries of this herb are used in making this medicine.
Ashwagandha has multiple health benefits:-
- Reduce Inflammation
- Improve brain function
- Increase muscle mass and strength
- Boost testosterone and fertility in men
- Help reduce stress, anxiety and depression
Effect of Ashwagandha on Erectile Dysfunction
One of the major reasons why people experience ED is stress. Higher levels of stress lead to higher blood pressure which causes the arteries to harden and narrow. The narrowed arteries limit the blood flow to the penis and, in turn, result in erectile dysfunction. Ashwagandha helps reduce stress and increases the flow of blood to the penis aiding in erection. Using ashwagandha for ED isn’t directly mentioned in Kama Sutra but is cited as a potent sexual stimulant. Recent studies suggest that ashwagandha for erectile dysfunction is a common form of treatment.
How To Use Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an aphrodisiac available as a pill or powder and is safe to take daily. Ashwagandha dosage for erectile dysfunction usually varies between 300-500mg a day. It’s usually taken after a meal if it is in pill form. Ashwagandha powder for erectile dysfunction is mixed in water/ or any other edible liquid and taken as a supplement.
If you are not sure about the dosage of ashwagandha for erectile dysfunction, you must consult a specialist for better results.
Alternatives
Erectile dysfunction is caused due to stress, anxiety, guilt, age, or a few other physical factors. Following are the other options one can look at if not for Ashwagandha for erectile dysfunction.
1. Viagra is one of the most common allopathic drugs available in the market, with proven results to deal with erectile dysfunction.
2. Cinnamomum Cassia essential oil, when diluted and applied on the penis relaxes the erectile tissue and will most likely result in an erection. It can also be inhaled but not consumed.
3. Asparagus racemosus is a herb found in the Indian subcontinent to boost blood circulation, which would benefit men with Erectile dysfunction.
If you are uncertain of Ashwagandha’s consumption or any other medication, then you can seek the following remedies:
1.Types of equipment that are designed to control the blood supply to the penis.
- A ring to trap the blood in the penis to sustain an erection
- A pump to draw blood into the penis
- A prosthetic placed over the penis, which helps to achieve orgasm
2. A controlled diet and regular exercise helps regulate the blood flow, which in turn helps to achieve a healthier sexual life
3. Practising yoga can stimulate sexual energy and improve sexual life
Consult a psychiatrist if erectile dysfunction is associated with the psychological issues
Side Effects Of Ashwagandha
It is considered safe to consume a certain amount of Ashwagandha daily for multiple health benefits. Yet there have been a few side effects encountered, and they are:
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Hyperactivity
• Dry Mouth
• Stuffy Nose
• Cough
• Decreased appetite
• Constipation
Who Shouldn’t Consume Ashwagandha?
We advise consulting with a doctor if you have diabetes or thyroid, as Ashwagandha lowers the sugar blood levels and raises thyroid hormone levels.
Ashwagandha needs to be entirely avoided by pregnant women as high doses could be harmful to a developing fetus; people on sedatives must avoid this herb as Ashwagandha acts as sedatives.
Research On Ashwagandha For Erectile Dysfunction
Ashwagandha can be very beneficial to men suffering from ED, based on their first-hand experiences, but there’s no scientific study to back it up. In one such particular study, Ashwagandha was administered to a group of men to understand its potency. But the results were inconclusive. Although more and more studies are being conducted on this topic, they’re yet to derive a desirable conclusion. There are a few studies that claim Ashwagandha for ED can be beneficial.
Conclusion
As Ashwagandha works towards lowering stress, increasing testosterone, and improving the quantity and quality of sperm, it is safe to say it works towards improving your sexual life.
A combination of supplements and ashwagandha for ED could produce desired results in ailing men. Proper consultation with a specialist is advised before you take any medication. As mentioned earlier, stress is the main factor leading to Erectile Dysfunction and can be fixed with your partner’s help. Speak up to maintain ‘IT’ up.
