Herbal Viagra: What Is It and Is It Safe?
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Reviewed by Kelly Brown, MD, MBA
Obtaining herbal Viagra may seem convenient as you can easily find these products at your local convenience store. However, convenience does not always equate to safety.
Avoiding a visit to the doctor might sound appealing, especially when it comes to discussing sensitive topics like erectile dysfunction. But these herbal supplements are not a substitute for genuine Viagra, a medication approved by the FDA and backed by years of research and successful use.
Continue reading to learn about the contents of herbal Viagra, the potential benefits and risks, and discover science-backed treatment options for erectile dysfunction without the inconvenience.
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Understanding Herbal Viagra
Despite its name, herbal Viagra or natural Viagra typically does not contain sildenafil citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra. If a product claims to contain sildenafil citrate, it is likely being sold illegally.
While herbal Viagra may have components that promote blood flow similar to sildenafil, they may also contain undisclosed ingredients that can pose health risks. The term “herbal Viagra” is broad and encompasses various over-the-counter remedies for erectile dysfunction, including aphrodisiacs and non-prescription pseudo-pharmaceuticals.
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Ingredients in Herbal Viagra
While herbs like ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and L-arginine are generally safe in small doses, they are unlikely to improve erectile function significantly. Be cautious of herbal Viagra products sold at gas stations, under brands like Rhino, or online, as they may contain undisclosed and potentially harmful substances.
There is little evidence to support the efficacy of herbal remedies for treating erectile dysfunction. In some cases, these products can be harmful and have serious health implications.
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Differences Between Herbal Viagra and Genuine Viagra
Viagra, also known as sildenafil citrate, is a medically prescribed drug belonging to the class of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors. These drugs work by inhibiting enzymes that can impede erectile function, promoting nitric oxide release, widening blood vessels, and enhancing blood flow.
Unlike herbal Viagra, genuine Viagra has undergone extensive testing and research, making it a reliable and proven treatment for erectile dysfunction.
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Popular Varieties of Herbal or Natural Viagra
While the term “natural” may sound reassuring, it is essential to remember that not all natural substances are safe for consumption. Herbal Viagra may include a variety of ingredients, such as:
– Goat weed (epimedium)
– Panax ginseng or red ginseng
– Cordyceps sinensis
– Ashwagandha
– L-citrulline
– L-arginine
– Yohimbe
– DHEA
– Ginkgo biloba
Boosting intimacy and virility with herbal supplements may sound appealing, with promises of increased sexual prowess and magical powers. But before you let your imagination run wild about skyrocketing testosterone levels, tiger blood, and bidding farewell to urologists, it’s important to note that experts are skeptical of these claims. Most herbal supplements touted as alternatives to Viagra lack the approval of the FDA and aren’t as effective as they may seem.
While some studies support certain herbal remedies for erectile dysfunction (ED), the evidence is often limited and inconclusive. Products like goat weed, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, and yohimbine have historical use in traditional medicine but lack solid scientific backing as ED treatments. In fact, the potential side effects and risks associated with these herbal supplements can be substantial, mirroring those seen with prescription medications for ED.
For instance, yohimbine may enhance intimate desire, but its efficacy compared to conventional ED drugs remains uncertain. Additionally, these natural alternatives can pose serious health risks, such as high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, nausea, dizziness, and even seizures in rare cases. The lack of rigorous medical testing and oversight means that the safety and efficacy of herbal Viagra pills are not guaranteed.
In light of past incidents where herbal supplements contained undisclosed drug ingredients, like sildenafil (the active component in Viagra), men with underlying health conditions should exercise caution. Interactions with medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease can have detrimental effects on cardiovascular health. The FDA has cautioned against the use of such products to prevent harmful outcomes.
Ultimately, while the allure of herbal supplements for ED treatment may be tempting, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and consult healthcare professionals for evidence-based solutions.
At ridiculously low levels. The point is, gentlemen, these medications are unsafe. Unlike FDA-approved treatment options, they aren’t thoroughly vetted and aren’t held to the same standards of testing and safety. Jelena Danilovic / iStockphoto
Alternatives to Herbal Viagra If you’ve been struggling with ED or are beginning to see symptoms, there are better ways to address this valid health condition than grabbing untested packets and pills off the shelf. The first and most important thing you should do is seek professional help from a urology expert or another licensed medical provider. A healthcare professional can address your particular needs and help you find a safe and effective treatment. Plus, they might spot other conditions commonly associated with ED symptoms — everything from obesity and diabetes to anxiety and depression. They may recommend treatments for these conditions alongside proven remedies for decreased bedroom performance. Besides recommended lifestyle changes, therapy, and home remedies for ED, your provider might suggest medications like Cialis (tadalafil), Viagra (sildenafil), or Stendra (avanafil). All of these safe and effective drugs are prescription PDE5 inhibitors that regulate blood flow to your privates and are proven to help treat ED. stefanamer / iStock
A Final Word on Herbal Viagra: Is It Safe? ED is a common condition, affecting an estimated 30 million to 50 million men nationwide. So if you’ve got a group of four friends, there’s a chance at least one suffers from the same problem. Buying something potentially unsafe to avoid difficult conversations isn’t a solution — if anything, it may make things worse. There’s a reason herbal and so-called “plant Viagra” aren’t sold in pharmacies but rather at gas stations and bodegas next to the bin of $2 DVDs. These herbal ED treatments aren’t proven to treat any medical conditions, and they’re probably a waste of time. Remember: Herbal Viagra is a less-regulated market of supplements. For intimate dysfunction and performance issues, medications like Viagra, Levitra, Cialis, and their generics are a better bet. Only a few claims are verifiable, but the rest is murky. Scientific evidence backing these products is scarce. Healthcare professionals aren’t going to be recommending these pills for ED or PE anytime soon. Prescription medication is a more trustworthy option. For effective ED treatments, you can’t go with vitamins and supplements for ED or OTC Viagra — it’s just too risky. Stick with proven treatments to protect your intimate function and overall health. Want more guidance on how to improve your intimate health? Explore these tips for maintaining arousal, learn if ED can be reversed, and find out how to know if you have ED if you’re unsure. This article originally appeared on Hims.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
