How is ED Treated in Third-World Countries?

In the United States, men who suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) have several prescription ED drugs to choose from including the most well known medication, Viagra.

But in third-world countries these effective medications aren’t available.

Treating erectile dysfunction in Africa

Economic limits keep modern treatments for ailments like erectile dysfunction at bay. That’s not to say that men in these poverty-stricken countries don’t have ways to address their erectile dysfunction; they do. But instead of Viagra many of the men turn to medicinal plants.

The countries of Africa each have their own collection of locally made stimulants that treat ED using local plants rumored to be sexual stimulants and aphrodisiacs. These even have trade names, such as TigerPower, Impotex, SuperLove, Burantashi and uBangalala.

Treating erectile dysfunction with Eriosema roots

The Zulu people of South Africa drink small amounts of hot milk infusions of Eriosema roots and/or pounded boiled root in the morning and at night to treat ED. Like Viagra, if this concoction is taken with a fatty meal, it can delay or reduce the rate of absorption.

To get the most out of the African ED remedy, it’s recommended that men drink it two to four hours before they plan to have intercourse. Many men report that the effects last from four to six hours.

Another promising plant species: E kraussianum

A piece published in the Cardiovascular Journal of Africa entitled, “African traditional medicines for erectile dysfunction: elusive dream or imminent reality?” reported that a promising plant species of South Africa called E kraussianum appears to be an effective remedy for ED.

Although testing on rabbits showed E kraussianum to be beneficial in treating erectile dysfunction, it needs to be more thoroughly tested on more animals and on humans to ensure that it’s safe and effective. Researchers will also need to document any side effects and confirm any contra-indications with other medicines, vitamins or minerals.