28 Asian Aphrodisiac Herbs that Treat ED

Last updated on November 20th, 2024 at 09:45 pm

10 minutes read.  

Overview

In Asia, many herbal tonics and preparations are used to assist the aging male improve his sexual drive or ability to perform penetrative sex.

These herbs help increase sexual stimulation, erectile, ejaculatory, orgasmic, and other responses for sexual function and satisfaction.

The herbs and tonics also act as a “pick-me-ups” and energizing tonics which help the tired and fatigued male and those with sexual weakness.

These herbs have been used in folks’ medicine for millennia not only in Asia but other parts of the world that knew their value. And some of them have been proved by modern research.

This article takes you through how the following herbs; Tongkat Ali, sea horse, cobra meat and blood, animal penises, and testicles among many other herbs have been used by traditional medicinal practitioners and village doctors to remedy reproductive-related problems such as ED.

“The information in this article is based on research documentary on human and animals studies”

Feel free to skim through.

In this article:

• Erectile Dysfunction
• Prevalence ǁ Eucommia ǁ Chinese yam
• Ginseng ǁ Deer antlers ǁ Seahorse
• Gingko ǁ Tribulus terrestris
• Tongkat Ali ǁ Gambir ǁ Muira puama
• Yohimbe ǁ Wild oats ǁ Horny Goat Weed
• Maca root ǁ Oat straw
• Catuaba ǁ Oyster meat ǁ Nettle leaf
• Animal testicles ǁ Dadder seed
• Gecko ǁ Cordyceps ǁ Zinc
• Cayenne pepper ǁ Astragalus
• Licorice root ǁ Sarsparilla
• Pumpkin seed ǁ Boron citrate
• Conclusion

What’s Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the “inability to reach and maintain an erection during intercourse”.

This makes the victim experience inadequate libido, inefficient orgasm, and retarded or premature ejaculation.

Prevalence

How common is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

In recent times, ED has been labeled as the most common sexual problem among pleasure-seeking males and a complaint of all men irrespective of their age, race, and culture but age is the most important risk factor for ED.

It is reported that nearly 100 million people around the world are living with erectile dysfunction.

Yet, only 10% of these 100 million, that’s 10 million are opting for treatment, despite enormous advancements and treatment facilities in all parts of the world.

To cite a few countries, in China, Korea, and Nigeria only 9% and 30% of males voluntarily admit to having ED.

And in most of the other countries in Asia, it is still considered very sensitive with considerable social stigma.

As a result most men secretly will resort to herbal remedies and tonics before seeking conventional medical help.

28 Asian Aphrodisiac Herbs That Treat ED

Do herbs really work to cure Erectile Dysfunction?

Here are the Top Herbs and Health tonics used for Erectile Dysfunction

These herbs can be found throughout Asia and perhaps even in your own country.

1. Eucommia (Eucomnia ulmoides)

This herb is very potent to treat impotency and fatigue.

2. Chinese yam (Dioscorea sp)

This yam is used often as a tonic to the reproductive system.

Studies have shown that Chinese yam may also be used to manage menopausal symptoms in women, without side effects, although it tends to have little effect.

3. Ginseng

This is an adaptogenic herb touted to have boosted the potency of Ottoman sultans.

It increases the body’s ability to handle environmental stresses and combat biochemical imbalances. It energizes when one is fatigued and calms when overanxious.

It also increases sex-related hormones like testosterone and enhances sexual responses in men and women. It thus acts as a tonic, stimulant, and aphrodisiac.

4. Deer antlers (Cervi pantotrichum)

This is one of the most popular sexual tonics in Asia.

In Chinese medical teaching, these herbs can invigorate impotency and infertility increasing semen production as well as kidneys control sexual function.

The best quality is from young bucks with new horns still in velvet with blood visible in the cartilage.

5. Seahorse (Hippocampus kelloggii)

It promotes the kidney and normalizes sexual activity. They are usually smashed or ground into powder.

Ginkgo biloba: this is an example of a tonic herb that equilibrates our body systems. When tired it energizes and when stressed it relaxes the individual.

It increases blood circulation which better prepares the male for the heart-racing excitement of sex.

An early reference to its medicinal use was in 2900 BC Chinese Materia Medical which believed it increased sexual energy.

6. Gingko

Gingko’s circulation enhancer called terpene lactone increases cerebral as well as genital blood flow.

It significantly increased the production of dopamine, adrenaline, and other neurotransmitters in the brain, and improves pleasure arousal and alertness.

7. Tribulus terrestris

This plant has long been used as a folk medicine in Eastern Europe and Bulgaria for sexual deficiency.

The properties of this powerful ingredient have been associated with an increase in sperm production, sexual endurance, and testosterone levels.

Also known as puncture vine, this herb has gained popularity over the past few years.

Since testosterone plays a huge role in men, the addition of this herb can prove to be very beneficial. It is not a hormone as some believe.

It is said that Tribulus terrestris can also help build muscle and strength, which enhances performance.

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8. Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longiflora)

This native plant found throughout South East Asia is used as an Aphrodisiac since 1996. It has to be used regularly and works by enhancing testosterone and sex hormone production.

Benefits are felt gradually over a period of time, mainly because it enhances the natural biological synthesis of testosterone.

When the level is increased, health and vitality are restored.

In studies on Mice, Tongkat Ali increases the number of times and duration of sexual performance of the animals under study with testosterone levels increasing up to 440% in some animals.

In a recent study on humans, 62% of subjects showed an increase in the free testosterone index indicating it’s bio-stimulatory effect on steroidogenesis.

It has also been shown to increase sperm concentration and motility and increases energy in the individual by enhancing cell energy production by 60%.

9. Gambir (gambier)

Uncaria gambir is a species of plant found in Southeast Asia, mainly Malasia Indonesia.

It can be ground into a powder and then made into a paste.

When applied to the penis it creates a prolonged erection and retards premature ejaculation.

Apply around the corona gland and near the frenulum. If applied “cold” it works best after application by taking a “warm” drink. Famous in Singapore and Malaysia.

10. Muira puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides)

although used in Asia, this potency wood is actually the best-known Amazonian folk medicine which increases libido and penile hardness.

It acts as a nerve stimulant to heighten receptiveness to sexual stimuli as well as the physical sensation of sex.

Rich in sterols, for example, sitosterol, campesterol, and lupol. This compound helps activates the body’s receptors for hormones like testosterone to heighten libido and enhance performance.

Also, it contains volatile oils like camphor which helps restore sex drive and inner depth of libido and mental ability to be aroused.

11. Yohimbe (Pausinystalia yohimbe)

This is an Asian favorite herb that originates from an evergreen tree native to the West African Countries of Congo, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Gabon.

It is the only herb listed in the Physician’s Index Reference as supporting sexual function. Its Latin name is Pausinystalia yohimbe.

The USA FDA approved yohimbe as the first plant-derived drug for treating impotency long ago and was named the herbal Viagra II in the February 1999 edition of Environmental Nutrition.

Alkaloids in Yohimbe such as Iso Yohimbine, allo-yohimbine, yohimbinine, yohimbane, yohimbenine and corynantheine block alpha-2 adrenergic activity allow vasodilation.

It also acts as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor increasing serotonin in the brain.

Yohimbine has a dual aphrodisiac function: it improves sexual function by displacing epinephrine from alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the pelvic area

And it increases proneness to arousal by supplying the epinephrine from the alpha-2 receptors to the central nervous system (brain) where it is active as a neurotransmitter.

Side effects include nervousness, anxiety, insomnia (sleeplessness), and possibly mild hypertension.

12 Wild oats

A study in 1986 by the Institute for Advanced Study of Sexuality in San Francisco reported its effects like heightened sexual awareness, increased sexual thoughts, and more orgasms (36% in men and 29% in women).

And some male subjects showed increased levels of testosterone attributed to unbinding of testosterone from thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG). Oats supply steroidal saponins which modulate hormonal balance.

13. Epimedium extract (Horny Goat Weed)

The Chinese refer to this herb as “yin yang huo“, which has been loosely translated as “licentious goat plant“.

Hence, its common name is well known as ‘horny goat weed’ by many Western cultures.

Scientifically, studies have shown that Epimedium may restore low levels of both testosterone and thyroid hormone, bringing low levels back to their normal levels, which may account for some of its benefits in improving sexual libido.

Other benefits of Epimedium involve increased muscle mass. Used for fatigue and aging.

And enhance vasodilatation, thus, most frequently used in the treatment of sexual dysfunction in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The active substance from horny goat weed was reported by Xin Zhong Cheng at Beijing Medical University as Icarian—acts by increasing sexual activities and increased intracranial (ICP) levels in castrated rats after long-term oral administration.

It has no effects on serum testosterone levels in castrated rats after long-term oral administration. Instead Icarian increases neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthesis and inducible Nitric Oxide Synthesis, membrane RNA, and protein expression in the erectile tissue of the penis after long-term oral administration.

And hence may have long-term efficacy on erectile dysfunction after oral administration.

Related: Here is How Consumption of Onions and Garlic May Improve Your Prostate Health

14. Maca root (Lepedium meyenii W)

This native Peruvian root has been cultivated for thousands of years, and considered an integral part of the diet, the Incans found maca root so potent.

It was restricted to royal use only and known for its energy-enhancing abilities.

Maca root enjoys a special place amongst herbalists and health seekers. Like ginseng, this plant is employed to increase strength, libido, and sexual function.

Clinically its effects have been proved with experimental animals.

15. Oatstraw

The chemical and Nutrient content of oat straw contains many essential vitamins and properties, which can improve the body’s physical and emotional condition.

Used for many reasons, oat straw has shown it has anti-depressant properties and acts as a restorative for low energy levels, hence may help with sexual weakness.

16. Catuaba (Erythroxylum Catuaba)

In Brazil, Catuaba Extract is considered to be a central nervous system stimulant, without the side effects of caffeine.

This is used in some Asian remedies for sexual weakness and lowered libido. European herbalists have found that Catuaba may have aphrodisiac properties and can be used to combat sexual weakness.

17. Oyster meat

Totally natural, oyster extract is excellent for men’s reproductive health and endurance. It is a rich source of the amino acid taurine, which is used for cardiac health and nerve transmission.

Historically known as an aphrodisiac, flavonoids in oyster meat have been shown to stimulate the reproductive system. However, still, its potency has not been clarified by modern human studies. 

18. Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica)

Among its many properties, nettle leaf has lately shown it’s possibly effective for prostate health and prevention of prostate conditions, especially prostatitis –an inflammation of the prostate gland.

There is speculation that nettle leaf may help with male pattern baldness. Prostate health is essential for men, no matter how young or old.

Prevention starts when men are young, so as to avoid problems associated with aging.

Prostate problems can interfere with a healthy sex life. Nettle is also considered to be an overall restorative for the body, as well as a natural diuretic and anti-inflammatory remedy.

 It is rich in iron, zinc, and chlorophyll.

19. Animal testicles

Derived from bulls and wild boars, it has been used as a way to possibly increase testosterone levels and sperm counts.

In Singapore, testis soap was once very popular. It is still sold in parts of China and Japan.

The dried Dog testis and penis (Canis familiaris) are believed to strengthen the kidneys. Kidney deficiency is believed to be the cause of impotency in Chinese literature.

20. Dadder seed (Tusizi)

There are 2 species:(i) Cuscuta chinensis Lam and (ii) Cuscuta japonica.

The ripe seeds are collected in autumn, and then they are dried in the sun or boiled.

Used to treat deficient kidneys manifesting as impotence, nocturnal emissions, and premature ejaculation.

Dodder seed (Tusizi) can be used with Schisandra fruit (Wuweizi), Cnidium fruit (Shechuangzi), Flattened milkvetch seed (Shayuanzi), and Grossy privet fruit (Nuzhenzi) for impotence.

21. Gecko (Gejie)

This toad-headed lizard (Gekko gecko L.) is caught in summer. The internal organs are removed, and the eyes are cut and drained.

Pieces of bamboo are used to fix the body, and then the gecko is baked and put in a dry place. It is used to treat Impotence due to kidney efficiency.

Gecko (Gejie) is used with Ginseng (Renshen), Pilose antler (Lurong), and Epimedium (Yinyanghuo). It can be used alone for this treatment.

22. Cordyceps (Dongchongxiacao)

Cordyceps is an ancient medicinal mushroom used as a crude drug for the welfare of mankind in old civilizations.

This mushroom is now a matter of great concern because of its unexplored potential obtained by various cultural techniques.

And being an excellent source of bioactive metabolites with more than 21 clinically approved benefits on human health including anti-diabetic, anti-tumor, anti-oxidative, immunomodulatory, sexual potentiation, and anti-aging.

This Chinese caterpillar fungus and the carcass of the larvae of various insects are collected in the period of the Summer Solstice (tenth solar term).

They are cleaned and dried in the sun or baked and used for treating deficient kidneys manifested as impotence, seminal emissions, and soreness and pain in the lower back and knees.

Cordyceps (Dongchongxiacao) is used with Dogwood fruit (Shanzhuyu), Dioscorea (Shanyao) and Dadder seed (Tusizi). The herb can also be used alone.

In one 2020 study Cordyceps extract effectively enhanced penile erection and sperm count in diabetic rats.

23. Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral, which is found in almost every cell of the human body.

It is believed to have a wide range of functions, especially for men and sexuality. Men need more zinc than women, especially for sexual functionality and prostate health.

Food very rich in zinc include pork meat, lamb, beef, organ meat, nuts, and seed including tiger nuts.

23. Cayenne pepper

Cayenne is also known as capsicum and plays a very large role in blood circulation.

When cayenne is ingested, it acts to dilate blood vessels, allowing blood flow to increase to all areas of the body, especially major organs.

The male penis benefits greatly from the ingestion of cayenne. It is a widely held belief that cayenne aids in longer-lasting erections, with stronger ejaculations and more intense orgasms.

24. Astragalus

This unique herb works primarily on the nervous system and immune systems, believed to aid in the stimulation of energy levels, along with strengthening the body’s immune system.

It has also been given credit for increasing sperm count. Astragalus also targets the urinary tract and kidneys, to maintain a healthy state.

25. Sarsparilla (Smilax officinalis)

The Chinese refer to this herb as khao yen’ and believe strongly in its ability to act as an aphrodisiac and a sexual stimulant.

Sarsaparilla has been used worldwide for its systemic benefits, especially sexually.

26. Licorice root

Many cultures have used licorice root and value its properties. Because it contains magnesium, silicon, and thiamine, the body welcomes this herb for overall health on a cellular level.

Its effect on hormonal levels has been applauded by many; and, as a tonic for the body’s well-being, it is believed to have great benefits.

27. Pumpkin seed (impuru ugbogoro)

Besides having a pleasant flavor, pumpkin seeds are revered by the Chinese for their antidepressant properties.

More importantly, pumpkin seed ingestion can impact prostate health, which is very important for male sexual health.

It is commonly used to strengthen the prostate gland and promote healthy hormone function in men. Myosin, an amino acid found in pumpkin seeds, is known to be essential for muscular contractions.

28. Boron citrate

In its chelated form, boron offers many benefits to the human body.

It improves calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium production, to reduce the loss of these essential minerals through urine output.

Boron also works to maintain the integrity of the body’s hormones, so they don’t break down too rapidly.

Some food very rich in boron include grape, avocado, bullet pear, peanuts/groundnut, peaches, Broccoli, coffee, etc

Conclusion

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the “inability to reach and maintain an erection during intercourse” which makes the victim experience inadequate libido, inefficient orgasm, and retarded or premature ejaculation.

Studies have shown that most of the foods and herbs used by our ancient parents and in modern-day traditional medicine are really true for their efficacy to remedy sexual-related issues in both men and women.

With the focus on erectile dysfunction in this article, some of these herbs have been proven by modern-day studies to prevent and remedy erectile dysfunction.

Strategically consuming these herbs may help you prevent a whole lot of sexual-related problems as you get older.

However, remember protection starts when you were young. Do not wait until you develop erectile dysfunction before you start incorporating these herbs mentioned above into your diet.  

I hope you get the value worth your time, I appreciate the time you spend with me. Leave a comment below if you find this article helpful and don’t forget to drop your question, opinion, or criticism if any. Cheers!

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