If you are among the 40% of men over 40 who experience low libido or erectile dysfunction (ED), there are things you can do to help improve your sexual health.
First of all, you need to take a look at your lifestyle and health because these common problems can be traced back to a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, and other factors such as diabetes, prostate cancer treatment, and having heart disease. Many men also suffer from ED due to psychological reasons and anxiety about sex and past performances.
If you are experiencing low libido, declining sexual health and decreased muscle mass, don’t rush to testosterone therapy. Instead, there are natural treatments, including herbs for erectile dysfunction and libido like fenugreek, that can help restore your testosterone and sex drive to normal healthy levels. Taking natural supplements and changing your lifestyle can help you balance your hormones and provide an environment for better overall performance in many aspects of your life besides just your sexual health.
The effects from taking herbs for erectile dysfunction are different from taking testosterone therapy. The natural testosterone boosters like herbs and other types of supplements are not associated with the dangers of testosterone therapy such as increased risk of heart attacks and becoming dependent upon the therapy, risking your body shutting down your own testosterone production.
Taking herbs for erectile dysfunction and libido along with following a program of diet, exercise, and weight loss can help you raise your own free testosterone. What is your “free” testosterone? It’s the bioavavailable, or usable, testosterone in your blood that is not bound to sex testosterone-binding globulin. This “free” testosterone is the main active hormone that promotes the cellular activity associated with the positive results of testosterone therapy. Reducing your alcohol intake has been shown to help as well.
Fenugreek for Sexual Health
One Mediterranean herb found in many Indian dishes and supplements that has long been known for improving men’s sexual and prostate health is fenugreek. There are several fenugreek health benefits that are good for men who are noticing the effects of aging in terms of their sexual health. Fenugreek has the ability to promote natural testosterone levels and improve libido. Fenugreek contains phytochemicals called saponins and sapogenins, which are credited with raising testosterone levels and improving libido.
Fenugreek has many other health benefits for men besides sexual health. Some research suggests that fenugreek can lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels, and it can help with diabetes and maintaining a healthy metabolism. This herb may also assist in fighting cardiovascular disease, and fenugreek seeds are popular for relieving heartburn and indigestion.
The following studies indicate that fenugreek can have a significant impact on your sexual health and testosterone:
- A clinical study published in 2011 evaluated a formulation containing a fenugreek extract and minerals. This double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 60 healthy males without ED who were between the ages of 25 and 52. There was a significant increase in sexual arousal and orgasm in the fenugreek group. The study also found that fenugreek also has a positive effect on muscle strength and energy. Researchers concluded that the formulation has a significant positive effect on the physiological aspects of libido, and that it may help maintain normal testosterone levels. (Steels)
- In a study conducted for a manufacturer of fenugreek supplements, 60 healthy men were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or 300 mg of fenugreek twice a day for eight weeks. When the study ended, the men who took fenugreek showed a significant increase in their testosterone levels when compared with the placebo group. (Gencor Nutrients 2008)
- A second study for the same manufacturer compared a combination supplement that consisted of fenugreek, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B6 with a placebo. The supplement was randomly assigned to 27 males who were 25 to 50 years old. Another 27 men received a placebo. None of the men had erectile dysfunction and all were in good health and in stable relationships. At the midpoint and end of the six-week trial, the men in the treated group reported higher scores on questions concerning their libido, sexual function, and sexual performance than did men in the placebo group. (Gencor Nutrients 2009)
Finding Fenugreek
Fenugreek can be found in food or supplement form. Most Indian stores carry fresh, frozen, or dried fenugreek, but you’ll probably find it easier to buy and take a daily fenugreek supplement, especially if you want to take it consistently.
Feungreek supplements come in capsules, powder, or seeds. Fenugreek is just one of 13 natural supplements in a formulation developed specifically for men called EveryDay Male. The clinical strength, well-researched ingredients in EveryDay Male can help promote libido and promote natural testosterone levels. Some of the other plant-based ingredients found in EveryDay Male include plant sterols, Avena sativa extract, green tea, and beet root.
Supplements like fenugreek can help with your sexual problems, but the bottom line is that you need to consider what other factors may be contributing to your loss of sex drive and libido. Losing extra weight is the first step to take. Not only will you will have more energy and feel better, but you will give yourself a natural testosterone boost as a result of the weight loss. It’s also time to ditch the drink. Having a few alcoholic drinks is fine, but the more you drink the less you will perform—especially in the bedroom. Take a look at some of these natural testosterone remedies and try to incorporate some of them into your routine today.
