A Naturopathic Approach To Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common male reproductive disorder affecting 10-20 per cent of the male population worldwide. It is characterised by an inability to attain or sustain penile erection during sexual activity, persisting for more than three months.

It is predicted by 2025, 322 million men will have ED. Age is a significant contributor, with 1-10% of men under 40 years old affected by the condition, 15% of men between the ages of 40-49, 20-40% of 60-69 year olds and 50-100% of men in their 80’s and 90’s.

A variety of controllable factors contribute to ED risk. Depression has a bidirectional cause and effect relationship with ED. Men with depression are over 3 times more likely to suffer from ED, compared to men without depression. The use of antidepressants was also found to accelerate the rate of developing ED by 4.5 times in men 5 years after treatment. Depression and anxiety can also manifest as a result of ED.

Men with diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity and smokers are far more likely to develop ED. This is due to increased inflammation, reduced blood and oxygen flow, increased atherosclerotic burden and endothelial dysfunction. Men with ED are also more likely to develop cardiovascular disorders, such as myocardial infarction.

Smokers are 51% more likely to develop ED compared to non-smokers, while ex-smokers have a 20% increased risk. For every 10 cigarettes smoked ED risk increases by 14% and every 10 years of smoking further increases risk by 15%.

The aim of treatment is to address risk factors, remove obstacles to health and support the body in its healing processes. Through diet, this is often achieved by increasing intake of antioxidant-rich foods, reducing intake of saturated fats by consuming more plant-based foods and increasing consumption of nuts and seeds.

Aerobic exercise and strength training have also been found to have significant protective effects. Strength training is associated with increases in testosterone, which lowers ED risk.

A variety of supplements and herbal medicines are invaluable in the treatment of ED. Depending on the individual causes of ED, these interventions can modulate androgen production, reduce inflammatory markers, improve vascular integrity to improve blood flow, reduce mood disorders and greatly enhance libido.

While it may be embarrassing for some men to speak to a health professional about concerns with ED, it is highly recommended to seek treatment to improve quality of life and prevent future complications.

If you’re suffering from ED and would like help using tailored holistic approaches, make an appointment. Together, we can explore your concerns safely and confidentially to formulate a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.