Horny Goat Weed 101 Guide: What Is It And Can It Treat Erectile Dysfunction

What is Horny Goat Weed?

Horny goat weed, also known as Epimedium, is a flowering plant that grows in Asia and the Mediterranean. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including erectile dysfunction

Horny Goat Weed For Erectile Dysfunction: Does It Work?

Understanding Why Erectile Dysfunction Occurs

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) refers to the inability or difficulty to get or maintain an erection, even when aroused. ED occurs when there is an insufficient amount of blood flowing to the penis, when the penis is unable to trap the blood and produce an erection, or when the brain is unable to send signals and reach the penis.

Symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:

• Trouble getting an erection
• Not being able to keep the erection for long
• Experiencing a reduced desire for sexual activities

Can Horny Goat Weed Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction?

While there is some evidence to suggest that horny goat weed may improve erectile function, the research is limited and inconclusive. A small study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men who took horny goat weed supplements experienced a slight improvement in their ability to achieve and maintain an erection. However, the study was small, and the results were not statistically significant.

Another study, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, found that icariin, the active ingredient in horny goat weed, improved erectile function in rats. However, it is important to note that animal studies do not always translate to humans.

While the evidence for horny goat weed as an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction is limited, it may be worth trying for those who prefer natural remedies. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatment, especially if you are taking other medications.

Side Effects Of Horny Goat Weed

While Horny Goat Weed is generally considered safe, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Some of the most common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth. Additionally, Horny Goat Weed may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, high blood pressure medications, and antidepressants. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using this supplement, especially if you are taking any medications or have a medical condition.

Alternative ED Treatments Available In Singapore

Here are some of the most common ED treatments available in Singapore:

1. Prescription Oral Medication

An effective ED treatment for many men, oral medication like Viagra, Cialis or Tadalafil are often prescribed as a first line of treatment.

These medications are known as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors).They help to restrict the enzyme PDE5 which degrades cGMP, a molecule that relaxes the muscle tissues in the body. By inhibiting PDE5, these ED medications are able to relax the muscles present in the blood vessel walls. This ultimately leads to an improved blood flow where you need it most; your penis.

Contrary to popular belief, ED medication like Viagra, Cialis or Tadalafil won't magically increase your sex drive or cause you to get random erection after you take it. They will still need you to be aroused in order for you to get hard. Thankfully for most healthy men, taking ED medication will help make getting an erection a much easier task.

It is possible that these ED medication can cause mild side effects like:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Chest Pains
• Flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal Congestion

Unfortunately, you will not be able to purchase any oral ED medication over-counter-counter. You will need to see a doctor for a prescription.

2. Penile Injections

If prescription ED medication is not working or unsuitable for you, there are alprostadil injections that can be administered directly into the penis. These injections work by expanding your blood vessels, which increases the blood flow to your penis.

These penile injections can quickly produce an erection, which can then last up to an hour.

It is possible that penile injections can cause side effects like prolonged erection, mild bleeding, and in rare cases, the formation of fibrous tissues at and around the injection site.

3. Penile Implants

If other ED treatments are found not to be effective, penile implants might be recommended by your doctor. This ED treatment involves surgically inserting a small tube on both sides of your penis. These tubes can then be pumped with air to help erect your penis.

4. Suppositories

Alprostadil urethral suppository involves inserting a small alprostadil suppository into the tip of your penis. The medication gets absorbed by the urethral wall, which then produces an erection that can last up to an hour.

Alprostadil urethral suppository can cause side effects like pain, burning sensation in the penis, and minor bleeding.

5. Vacuum Restriction Devices (Penis Pump)

Vacuum restriction devices (also known as a penis pump) can be prescribed to treat ED. A hollow tube is placed over the penis and then connected to a pump (either operated by hand or battery).

The pumping will draw blood towards the penis due to the pressure created by the vacuum. When a tension rubber ring is placed around the base of the penis, the penis pump can produce an erection that lasts up to 30 minutes.

6. Talk Therapy

While ED medication like Sildenafil Citrate or Tadalafil works to address the physiological causes of ED, they will not be able to treat your depression, anxiety or stress.

Some methods to help psychological issues, including psychological causes of ED, include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is facilitated by a therapist. If not, some relaxation methods that you can try at home include breathing exercises, meditation and guided imagery, which may help to relieve some symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression.