Natural Viagra: Herbal & Other Alternatives to Treat ED
Erections are almost synonymous with Viagra® — that iconic blue pill. But for those more into holistic treatments, is there a natural Viagra for men?
Experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED) can be frustrating — even depressing. Thankfully, numerous erectile dysfunction treatments are out there, including prescription medications like Viagra.
Men interested in non-prescription solutions might be curious about natural alternatives for treating erectile dysfunction, including so-called “natural Viagra pills.” But buyer beware: Not all of these options are effective or even safe.
In other words, before adding the maca and ginkgo biloba you bought online to your protein shake, you should probably read the fine print.
We’ll outline some natural alternatives to Viagra, what they do (or are thought to do), and which ones to be cautious about. Let’s get started.
What Is Natural Viagra?
When it comes to treating medical conditions, the word “natural” is thrown around a lot. The term “natural Viagra” is often used to mean any non-prescription alternatives to ED medications.
However, it’s important to remember that natural or herbal ED remedies generally don’t work in the same way Viagra does.
Let’s back up a second to talk about how Viagra works.
Viagra is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ED. The prescription drug — called sildenafil in its generic form — is what’s known as a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5 inhibitor).
PDE5 inhibitors block the action of PDE5, an enzyme that causes blood vessels to contract. This allows the blood to relax, thereby increasing blood flow to the penis — and blood flow to the penis is essential for erections.
You may have seen products labelled as “natural Viagra for men” — like the sexual enhancement herbal remedies often sold in gas stations. These products are said to do the same things as prescription Viagra, just without a prescription. Some even claim to boost testosterone levels, ignite sexual desire, and enhance sexual performance.
We’d recommend steering clear of the dodgy gas station pills, many of which can be extremely dangerous. They’re not regulated by the FDA and can have nasty side effects. Some of these supplements have even been found to illegally contain sildenafil itself without so much as a mention on the label.
But if you’re looking for natural Viagra alternatives, we’ll share a few below. Most of these products aren’t PDE5 inhibitors, but they may support erectile health.
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6 Natural Viagra Alternatives
If you’re still with us, you’re probably realising that alternatives to Viagra aren’t always a great (or effective) option. But there’s more nuance to this category of ED treatments than that.
Consider the list of non-prescription treatments for ED:
Natural ED supplements
Vacuum pumps
Sex therapy
Foods that can help with ED
Lifestyle changes
A recently FDA-authorised topical gel
Let’s examine these popular options in more detail — then you can be the judge.
1. Natural ED Supplements
There are currently many non-prescription herbal supplements marketed as natural remedies for erectile dysfunction.
Dietary supplements often said to improve ED include:
Epimedium (horny goat weed)
Red ginseng
Citrulline
Tribulus terrestris
Yohimbine
Certain vitamin deficiencies can also contribute to ED, and supplementing may help improve erectile function. Vitamins for ED include:
Vitamin B3 (niacin)
Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Vitamin D
Some of these products could benefit your sexual health. For instance, a systematic review found that L-arginine, an amino acid, could help with mild to moderate ED, particularly in men who could benefit from improved nitric oxide synthesis.
But for the most part, they lack scientific backing. More double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials need to be done before we can conclude that they’re on par with Viagra.
As always, we recommend speaking with a healthcare professional before trying a new supplement or herb, especially if you’re on chronic medication.
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2. Vacuum Pumps
One of the oldest treatments for ED? Vacuum erection devices — also known as penis pumps. Used since the late 1800s, vacuum devices use a pump to create a vacuum suction on the penis. This helps increase blood flow and engorges the corpora cavernosa (the spongy tissue inside the penis), which then causes an erection.
Once the vacuum has enlarged and stiffened the penis, a penis ring is placed at the base to keep the tissue engorged for sexual activity.
Though pumps can be helpful for those who don’t want to use Viagra, there are some drawbacks. For example, it can feel awkward to pause foreplay and use your penis pump.
3. Sex Therapy
For men whose ED is caused or worsened by psychological factors, sex therapy for ED may provide some relief.
Things like anxiety, relationship conflicts, trauma, cultural taboos, and unresolved relationship attachments can all be addressed with the help of a mental health professional.
Even if your ED isn’t caused by psychological factors, speaking with a therapist can be a good idea. Erectile dysfunction is frustrating and can sometimes contribute to self-esteem issues, depression, and relationship conflict. In these situations, counselling can improve your sexual function.
4. ED-Friendly Foods
When discussing natural Viagra foods for males, libido (sex drive) is a hot topic.
Many foods are said to improve sexual desire and boost libido. While there’s scant research to support this, it doesn’t hurt to indulge in some of these on your next date night.
Though we don’t have any tips for “homemade Viagra,” the following foods might support sexual function:
Spinach
Tomatoes
Protein
Learn more about these and other erectile superfoods in our guide to foods that help ED. You can also check out our blog on aphrodisiac foods.
5. Lifestyle Changes
Certain lifestyle factors can increase your odds of developing ED. So managing these risk factors can make you less likely to develop ED and possibly help get rid of existing ED.
There are many ways to naturally maintain an erection, including:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Getting regular exercise
Reducing alcohol consumption
Eating a healthy diet
You’ll also want to manage chronic health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), or diabetes. Keeping your overall health under control can go a long way in improving erectile function and sexual health.
6. Eroxon
Recently, the FDA authorised the marketing of a new treatment for ED — a non-medicated, over-the-counter (OTC) gel called Eroxon Stimgel.
Often dubbed an OTC Viagra alternative, Eroxon isn’t actually a PDE5 inhibitor. It’s applied topically to the head of the penis and works by stimulating the nerves to promote an erection.
Should I See a Doctor for ED?
Yes. Even if you don’t want to use Viagra or other ED medications, it’s a good idea to connect with a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing signs of erectile dysfunction.
Here’s why:
Sexual dysfunction can be a sign of more serious medical issues. Talking with a healthcare provider specialising in urology can help rule out that something more serious is behind your ED.
They can advise on natural treatment options. If you’re not keen on prescription meds, your provider can tell you which supplements could help (for example, if you have a vitamin deficiency) or suggest lifestyle changes.
You won’t get dangerous stuff from a medical professional. Talking to a healthcare provider is the safest way to access an active ingredient that’s clinically proven to work — instead of something potentially dangerous.
You need an expert’s help to treat ED and most of its underlying causes. We know it can be uncomfortable talking to a stranger about bedroom problems, but trust us, men’s health providers have heard it all — and they’ve got the experience you want.
Also, we want to put it out there that Viagra isn’t the only ED pill available. You could try an FDA-approved alternative to Viagra like Cialis Together, (tadalafil), Stendra® (avanafil), or Levitra® (vardenafil).
Not into swallowing pills? Hims has chewable ED meds in the form of hard mints, which may suit your health and lifestyle better.
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Traditional Pill
SildenafilGeneric equivalent to Viagra®
From £2.36/use
The most commonly prescribed ED treatment, contains the same active ingredient as Viagra® but is 80% more affordable than the brand name.
Traditional Pill
As-Needed TadalafilGeneric Cialis®
From £2.36/use
The unbranded, more affordable generic form of Cialis® taken as needed. It is clinically proven to help men get and keep harder erections for up to 36 hours.
Traditional Pill
Viagra Connect®
From £5.83/use
The over-the-counter branded version of sildenafil. Viagra Connect® improves blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain strong and satisfying erections.
Traditional Pill
Daily TadalafilDaily Generic Cialis®
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A clinically proven treatment for erectile dysfunction that helps men achieve and maintain erections more easily. It gives you the freedom to enjoy spontaneous sex without needing to plan ahead.
Important safety information for Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Tadalafil Daily or Viagra Connect.
The Bottom Line on Viagra Natural Alternatives
Many so-called natural Viagra alternatives are being hawked to men, but we strongly advise against getting “herbal Viagra” pills you might see online or at a mini-mart.
If you’d like a natural alternative to prescription ED medication, your best bet is to try those listed above.
Here’s what to keep in mind about “natural Viagra” and other solutions for erectile dysfunction:
Most ED supplements aren’t well-studied. While some herbs and supplements show potential, there isn’t nearly as much research on their safety and effectiveness as Viagra and other FDA-approved prescription drugs.
There are some non-pill options, too. These include vacuum erection devices, sex therapy, and lifestyle changes. Erexon, an over-the-counter gel, might also be worth exploring.
Viagra isn’t the only ED drug out there. If Viagra doesn’t work for you, you could try other prescription options, like Cialis, Stendra, or chewable ED meds from Hims.
Ready to address your erectile function and enhance your sex life? We’ve got your back!
With Hims, you can connect with a medical provider online and, if prescribed, get prescription drugs like Viagra shipped to your door. We also have treatment options for premature ejaculation (PE).
Start by taking our free quiz.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment or medication.