Can an Indian Root Improve ED?

Sometimes referred to as “Indian ginseng,” Ashwagandha is a root from India that practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine consider to be very important.

This root is said to treat erectile dysfunction, but there are real concerns with herbal treatments like this.

Ashwagandha throughout history

Among many benefits, Ashwagandha is believed to help with cancer, heart health, Alzheimer’s, menopause and arthritis. For men with erectile dysfunction, some believe it can help by dilating the vessels that take blood to the penis. In addition, Ashwagandha—which is also called “strength of ten horses”—is mentioned in the Kama Sutra as an aphrodisiac.

Plenty of stores and online vendors sell Ashwagandha as an herbal supplement, from Walmart and Amazon to Thrive Market and the Vitamin Shoppe.

Safety concerns

Ashwagandha is an herbal medication, and while it has ancient uses, the real effects are unknown. It may have adverse side effects or interact with medications that you’re taking.

Herbal supplements like this aren’t tested and often have little to no scientific backing.

Treating erectile dysfunction now

If you’re have erectile dysfunction, the modern, safe treatment is an oral medication like Viagra. One of the top erectile dysfunction drugs, Viagra is proven effective for 82% of men and comes with mild side effects. Side effects include: headache, indigestion, stuffy or runny nose, and facial flushing. Most men are able to cope with the temporary side effects in favor of a harder erection and longer lasting sex.

Viagra is only available with a prescription, so you’ll need to speak with your doctor. While some men are embarrassed to talk about “problems down under,” the only way to treat the problem is to address it and get the medication you need.

If you’re too embarrassed to schedule an appointment, you can set up an online consultation through eDrugstore. A prescription can be given after an evaluation conducted online.