Herbal remedy found to mimic Viagra
By Better Health Research News Desk • Sep 30th, 2008 • Category: Health News, Health Resources News, Male Libido
Men who are more comfortable taking herbal supplements than prescription drugs may benefit from the results of a new study on impotence treatments.
A plant known as "horny goat weed" has been used for centuries to treat erectile dysfunction. Now, Italian researchers have found evidence that it can work as a natural alternative to prescription medications.
During the study, scientists at the University of Milan exposed a variety of herbal extracts to an enzyme responsible for controlling blood flow to the penis.
They discovered that horny goat weed and its active ingredient, icariin, were the most effective herbal remedy tested for inhibiting the enzyme – a step that leads to an erection.
Lead researcher Mario Dell’Agli suggested that horny goat weed could serve as an alternative to medications such as Viagra, which have been shown to cause side effects including headaches, stomach upset and visual disturbances.
Some men may also find that lifestyle changes – such as eating a healthier diet, quitting smoking or starting an exercise plan – can help them resolve their erection problems.
The findings are published in the Journal of Natural Products.
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