This powerful, natural arsenal combats impotence, slow sexual response, lack of desire, inability to have orgasms, and many other common sexual dysfunctions.
It’s the disorder no one wants to talk about, yet nearly everyone will experience at one time or another during their life.
I’m referring to sexual dysfunction, which is now reaching epidemic proportions in the U.S. among both men and women.
Sexual dysfunction refers to a variety of ailments including “lack of sexual desire, difficulty becoming aroused, inability to achieve orgasm, erection problems in men, lubrication problems in women and pain during intercourse.”1 Untreated, sexual dysfunction can have devastating effects on self-esteem, health, marriage, career and friendships.
The New York Times reports, “an estimated 30 million men suffer at one time or another from some degree of male erectile dysfunction, [yet] only 2.76 million visited doctors last year with the complaint.”2
Sexual dysfunction is even more common among women. A recent University of Chicago study found that 43% of women surveyed reported sexual problems associated with stress.3
Not only is sexual dysfunction far more widespread than previously thought, in our modern, overworked world, it is also growing rapidly, and now even affects some men and women in their late teens. That’s the bad news.
The good news is that thanks to recent advances in nutrition and medical science, many if not most cases of sexual dysfunction can either be greatly improved or cured entirely — without dangerous drugs, surgery or other invasive techniques. Further, with modern Prosexual vitamins and nutrients, dramatic improvement — up to and including elimination of sexual problems — can occur in as little as a few weeks or even days, without the high costs of surgery or prescription drugs.
Causes of sexual dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction is not a single malady but rather a number of different maladies, so there is no single cause but rather a constellation of causes. Causes include:
- Stress
- Depression
- Lack of Sleep
- Poor Health
- Bad Nutrition
- Illness
- Prescription Drugs
- Menopause
- Poor Diet
- Disease
- Hormone Inbalances
- Aging
The two biggest mistakes most people make in dealing with sexual dysfunction
The first mistake is assuming that your sexual problems are unique or unusual. As the studies cited above demonstrate, sexual problems are far, far more widespread than even medical professionals previously realized. Yet the vast majority of people suffering from them do nothing to treat them and in many cases won’t even talk about them.
The second mistake is believing that greatly reduced sexual drive and ability is a natural result of getting older. In fact, prosexual vitamins and nutrients can maintain a high sex drive and ability at almost any age.
Why do so many people do nothing about sexual problems? Perhaps it’s a vestige of our Puritan heritage, which equated pleasurable sex with sin. Or maybe it’s our sex-obsessed culture, which makes us ashamed to admit we don’t have the sexual energy and interest we once did.
Whatever the cause, ignoring or doing nothing about sexual dysfunction greatly diminishes your quality of life and may lead to many other problems.
Sex and health
Sexual health is inseparable from your overall health. If you improve your general state of health, you will improve your sex function. At the same time, enhancing sexual vitality and improving your sex life has a positive impact on your overall health.
Sex has many beneficial physical effects, including improved blood flow and the release of male and female hormones which improve overall health. The pleasure sex affords, makes most people much more happy with their lives and thereby contributes to high self-esteem and a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.
Sex also performs the vital sociological function of creating a strong-bond between partners, leading to lasting relationships, marriage and a stable home for children.
Conversely, lack of sex, and inability to perform and enjoy sex is a causative factor in many psychological disorders, and a contributory factor in many physical disorders.
Treating sexual dysfunctions with
Prosexual nutrients
During the last few decades, tremendous progress has been made in treating sexual disorders, particularly with the development of a number of “prosexual” drugs.
A prosexual drug or nutrient is simply any substance that can improve sex or sexual health.
Generally speaking, there are three major ways in which prosexual substances enhance sex:
- They increase ability to perform and enjoy sex – including frequency and duration of erection in men … and arousal, lubrication, and orgasms for women.
- They increase desire for sex (libido).
- They improve your general state of health.
During the last 50 years, many prosexual nutrients and substances have been identified which are important for sexual function and enjoyment. Here are eight of the most important. Together they greatly enhance ability and desire for sex.
Prosexual Nutrient #1 – TESTOSTERONE:
Essential for both male and female sexuality
Testosterone is the most important single prosexual substance for both men and women. The very word “testosterone” is virtually synonymous with “sexuality.”
There are many, well-documented studies of the benefits of testosterone, including heightened sexuality, increased muscle and bone strength, improved cardiovascular health, elevated mood, and increased overall energy.
While the importance of testosterone for male sexuality is generally well known, what most people don’t realize is that testosterone is also essential for female sexuality. Without testosterone, women don’t have any sex drive at all.
The main difference in the role of testosterone for men and women is that women naturally have much lower levels, which explains why women generally have a lower sex drive than men. After menopause, many women have extremely low testosterone levels, and thus a very low sex drive.
As you age, testosterone levels – and hence sex drive — falls
For both sexes, there is substantial evidence from cross-sectional studies (which compare many people of different ages) that as we age, testosterone levels decrease.
Many competent doctors are unaware of this for one simple reason: Although total testosterone levels stay about the same in most men until they are 50 or 60, the really important factor is free testosterone— which appears to decline steadily from age 18, as indicated in the below graph.
This result was confirmed by another cross-sectional study – the Massachusetts Male Aging Study. In this study, researchers evaluated hormone levels in a large group of men between 39 and 70. Overall, they found that in healthy men, free testosterone declines at 1.2% per year. At the same time, the levels of SHBG – along with SHBG-bound testosterone – rose at a rate of 1.2%. If you subtract out the SHBG-bound testosterone, which is inactive, the decline in testosterone is much greater. 4
Testosterone in women also declines with age – and replacing it greatly enhances sex
Similar effects are also present in women. As women enter menopause, androstenedione production in their ovaries takes a sharp dive, decreasing by about 50%. Although the adrenal glands continue to produce some androstenedione, they produce far less than the ovaries, and this production too, declines with age.5 This contributes to a significant decline in testosterone levels.6
For decades it has been clear that “testosterone replacement” regimens usually improve sexual function and enjoyment. Well-controlled studies of these regimens have shown that postmenopausal women who take “testosterone,” in addition to “estrogen” supplements have a higher level of sexual desire, more sexual fantasies, and greater sexual arousal than do women who take “estrogen alone or no hormonal treatments.”7,8,9
One word of caution: Proper testosterone dosage is extremely important for women. Take too little and you have no sex drive. Take too much and you can grow facial hair and start to exhibit other male characteristics.
Problems caused by low testosterone
According to internationally renowned nutritional medicine physician, Dr. Johnathan Wright,10 effects of low testosterone levels include a long-list of health and emotional problems including:
- Decreased libido and potency
- Early senility
- Memory failure
- Reduced intellectual agility
- Loss of ability to concentrate
- Moodiness/emotionality
- Depression
- Reduced activity
- Increased incidence of atherosclerosis
- Great timidity
- General tiredness
- Nervousness/anxiety
- Touchiness/irritability
- Feeling weak
- Reduced interest in surroundings
- Hypochondria
- Inner unrest
Androstenedione and Androstenediol:a safe way to restore declining testosterone
To combat problems associated with low testosterone, more and more people are taking nutrients and drugs to restore testosterone levels. One of the most popular treatments is androstenedione – a natural steroid precursor of testosterone, which is generated by the human body itself.
Androstenedione is legally available without prescription, and has been classified as a “nutritional substance” (not a drug), and can be purchased over-the-counter.
Androstenedione is a very effective way to increase testosterone levels but there are two problems with androstenedione:
Problem #1: It can be converted by the body into estrogen, not just to testosterone, and most people don’t need more estrogen, especially men.
Problem #2: It doesn’t work very well when taken orally because the stomach breaks it down. Rather, it needs to be spayed beneath the tongue for proper absorption.
To eliminate both of these problems, researchers have taken an interest in a closely related compound – also naturally found in your body – call androstendiol. Unlike androstendione, androstendiol cannot convert into estrogen, and studies indicate that this substance is much more effective in producing testosterone – especially when used as a sub-lingual spray.
In summary: The new, androstenediol spray is an extremely safe and effective way for both men and women to raise their testosterone levels to normal and effective levels, increase their sex drive and combat osteoporosis and a host of other ailments associated with aging and declining testosterone.
Prosexual Nutrient #2: — ARGININE
Greater staying power and intensity of sexual response
Arginine is an essential amino acid, one of the building blocks of proteins in the body. Arginine is available as a supplement known as “L-arginine.”
By increasing blood flow to the penis, L-arginine increases the size, hardness and frequency of erections for men. For women, L-arginine increases “staying power.” One highly athletic, 30-something woman talked about the time she told her doctor about her L-arginine use:
“My doctor almost fell off his chair when I told him how many times a night I do it. He’s definitely taking arginine now, too.”
Both men and women report that L-arginine seems to increase their libido or desire for sex. Reports also suggest that L-arginine supplements can improve fertility in men who have low sperm counts or poor sperm motility (activity).
How L-arginine works: Just say “NO”
L-arginine is the main source of the primary molecule responsible for sexual arousal and erections: nitrogen.
In the 1990s, scientists discovered that a simple gas — known as nitric oxide or “NO” — is essential for erections. Without arginine in the diet, there would be no NO, and without NO there would be no erections.
Nutritional expert, Dr. Jonathan Wright, explains the mechanism: “Molecules of NO are generated when an enzyme called NO synthase (NOS), which is abundant in the nerve and muscle cells in and around the penis, strips away a nitrogen atom (N) from a passing molecule of the amino acid L-arginine) #&133; and combines it with an atom of oxygen (O).”11
In other words, by facilitating blood flow to the erectile tissue of the penis, NO produced from L-arginine can give men erections that are bigger, harder, and more frequent. Some men also report that L-arginine gives them greater endurance. “It almost doubled my staying power,” said one male enthusiast.
Timing and contra-indications
L-arginine users say they can achieve a prosexual effect by taking it 45 minutes before sex. There are few reported side effects. The most notable are:
- People with herpes – L-arginine may increase the severity of attacks, but some reports indicate that it may also enhance your immune function enough so you are less likely to get herpes attacks.
- Diabetics and borderline diabetics – L-arginine can raise blood-sugar levels.
Prosexual Nutrients #3 & #4: CHOLINE & VITAMIN B-5
For increased sexual endurance
“I can generally have sex for about twice as long as I can without it,” said a man in his 30s who takes vitamin B-5. “During cunnilingus, my tongue just doesn’t get tired.”
One woman, who used choline plus vitamin B-5, says they help her feel more relaxed during sex. “There’s no muscle tightness,” she said. “It makes your body feel smoother, especially if you tend to tense up while having an orgasm.”
How choline and B-5 improve sex
Sexual arousal occurs not just in the genitals but in the whole body, especially in the brain. For men it begins when the brain sends impulses down the spinal cord and out to the nerves that serve the penis. These impulses trigger the production of nitric oxide (NO), which causes penile arteries to dilate and the spongy core of the penis to relax and become engorged with blood.
The neurotransmitter that carries the sexual message from the spinal nerves to the nerves that control the penile arteries and spongy tissue is acetylcholine (ACh). For women, ACh is also a very important part of sexual function, and its effectiveness in increasing sexual arousal and response has been supported by a number of laboratory studies. For example Durk Pearson and Sandy Shaw have pointed out that ACh is involved in the build-up toward orgasm and the urethral and vaginal contractions that occur during orgasm as well as the subjective perception of orgasm intensity and duration.12
Timing and side-effects
Experienced users recommend taking choline plus vitamin B-5 or B-5 by itself about 20 to 30 minutes before sex to get the full effect right from the start. But, notes one user, “Don’t worry if you start too soon, it will kick in as you’re going.” He adds that pretty much everyone, who he’s told about B-5, has discovered they have the energy to go longer.
Some people who use choline and B-5 experience occasional muscle tension headaches, stiff or tight muscles, muscle cramps, and diarrhea. If this happens, you should discontinue use for 1 to 2 days, and resume use of these supplements at a decreased dosage.
Prosexual Nutrient #5: – GINKGO BILOBA
For enhanced erections and improved mental sharpness
Many research studies have shown ginkgo to be a major aid in improving blood flow through small blood vessels. In one study conducted in Germany, 60 men with “proven arterial erectile dysfunction were asked to take ginkgo biloba extract, 60 mg daily, for 12 to 18 months.”
The first signs of improvement were seen after six to eight weeks. After six months, 30 of the 60 men had regained erectile function. In 12 men, papaverine (a vasodialating drug delivered by injection), which had previously been unsuccessful, now worked. Fifteen of the men had improved penile blood flow but still did not respond to papaverine. Only three men had no measurable improvement at all.13
Many studies also indicated that ginkgo biloba also significantly increases mental acuity and memory.
Prosexual Nutrient #6: – TRIBULUS
For healthier sperm and increased libido
Tribulus terrestris – also known as the puncture vine – has been used as a prosexual herb for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks used it as a general health tonic and diuretic. The Chinese used it as a cure for impotence.
It’s first reported use in the west was in the 1960’s when East European Olympic teams used it to enhance athletic performance and decrease recovery times.14
More recently, research by the Bulgarian pharmaceutical firm, Sopharma, found that tribulus increased the quality and quantity of sperm production, improved sperm motility and survival, and enhanced libido.15
100% effective in lab study
The most impressive effects of Tribulus terrestris is on sexual libido. In one study, a group of male pigs with “lasting impotence” were tested based on their sexual behavior and sexual movements. The study demonstrated that after a 10-day period, the sexual reflexes were fully recovered in 71% of the animals.
The results were especially astonishing because the animals had suffered “complete absence of libido.” By the end of the study, all (100%) of the previously impotent animals had recovered16 … and the pigs seemed much happier.
How tribulus works
Recent studies of tribulus have verified claims that have been made for hundreds of years. It appears to benefit the cardiovascular system, ease symptoms of angina pectoris and reduce blood pressure. Other studies indicate that it may also be helpful in treating the symptoms of menopause.17
Tribulus works as an adaptogen, which means that it has a general tonic effect of bringing into balance a variety of hormones and other biochemicals. Tribulus raises testosterone levels when they are low.
According to Ward Dean, M.D., tribulus may be a hypothalamic sensitizer. In other words, it rejuvenates the hypothalamus – the part of the brain that regulates levels of testosterone and many other hormones.
There also appears to be no down side to taking tribulus: You can take it continuously for years and in addition to improving your sex drive, it will also improve your overall health.
Prosexual Nutrient #7: YOHIMBE & YOHIMBINE
For heightened libido, increased tactile sensation, multiple orgasms
A 29-year-old video storeowner had this glowing praise of the sexual powers of yohimbe:
“It was the best thing that ever happened. I swear by that. I had longer, thicker, longer-lasting erections and bigger ejaculations, and the feeling that it gives you is incredible.”
More than one source we have interviewed mentioned that yohimbe and yohimbine are “tools of the trade” for actors in the X-rated film industry, who use them to meet the rigorous demands of their “shooting schedule.”
Common reported beneficial effects of yohimbe and yohimbine include heightened libido; increased tactile sensation in the genitals and other parts of the body; longer, harder, larger erections; phenomenal stamina; more powerful orgasms; multiple orgasms and ejaculations; and greater quantities of ejaculate. Yohimbe also helps counteract the sexually depressive effects of medications such as prozac and other antidepressants.
How yohimbine works
Yohimbe is a natural herbal extract of Corynanthe bark and is available without a prescription by mail order and at health food stores. “Yohimbine” is the name for the active ingredient found in yohimbe products.
Yohimbine duplicates a biochemical event believed to play a key role in producing male erection. It inhibits the alpha-2 adrenergic system, increasing the flow of blood through arteries into the penis. It may also result in higher levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that also facilitates erection.
A recent study also found that yohimbine increases blood levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine by 66% — one of the body’s natural prosexual chemicals.
One recent study found that yohimbine produced the same overall response rate for both organic and psychogenic impotence, and in fact was as helpful in improving sexual relations as sex therapy and marriage counseling.18
Safety, side-effects and contra-indications
Yohimbine is one of the safest prosexual nutrients. In one case, a 62-year-old man took 200 milligrams of yohimbine hydrochloride – some 40-times the recommended therapeutic dosage – and had only mild side effects such as rapid heartbeat and temporary hypertension.
However, others have reported such side effects as nausea, anxiety, increased blood pressure, irritability, headache and vomiting.
Yohimbine is not recommended for, pregnant women, children, those with kidney problems or with histories of gastric or duodenal ulcer. Geriatric patients should consult with their physician before using yohimbine.
A powerful arsenal for combating sexual dysfunction
Together, the prosexual nutrients discussed here provide a powerful arsenal for combating many forms of sexual dysfunction – including impotence, inability to experience orgasms, lack of sexual desire, and inability to perform.
Each nutrient by itself can improve sexual performance. Working together the results can be truly spectacular: Multiple-orgasms in both men and women … sex that just lasts and lasts … long-lasting erections … and improved overall health and well-being.
Sexual dysfunction may still be the ailment no one wants to talk about. But with the modern arsenal of prosexual nutrients there is no reason for anyone to suffer in silence.
Related Articles
References
- Sexual dysfunction common in men, women. Onhealth.webmd.com/conditions/briefs/item%2C36836.asp. February 10, 1999.
- Morrow D. New means to make men feel younger. The New York Times, March 31, 1998; B1-B2.
- Sexual dysfunction: Study sheds lights, HealthOasis, May Clinic online, www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9902/htm/sexualdy.html, Feb 16, 1999.
- Gray A, Feldman HA, McKinlay JB, Longcope C. Age, disease, and changing sexs hormone levels in middle-aged men: results of the Massachusetts Male Aging Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.`99`; 73;1016-25.
- Judd HL, Judd GE, Lucas WE, Yen SS. Endocrine function of the postmenopausal ovary: concentration of androgens and estrogens in ovarian and peripheral vein blood. J Clin Endocrinol Meta. 1974;39:1020-1024.
- Adashi EY. The climacteric ovary as a functional gonadotropin-driven androgen-producing gland. Fertil Steril. 1994;62:20-27.
- Aleander GM, Sherwin BB. Sex steroids, sexual behavior, and selection attention for erotic stimuli in women using oral contraceptives. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 1993; 18: 91-102.
- Bancroft J, Sherwin BB, Alexander GM, Davidson DW, Walker A. Oral contraceptives, androgens, and the sexuality of young women: ii. The role of androgens. Arch Sex Behav. 1991;20:121-135.
- Sherwin BB, Gelfand MM. The role of androgen in the maintenance of sexual functioning in oophorectomized women.Psychosom Med. 1987;49:397-409.
- Wright, J, M.D. and Lenard L PhD, “Reported Effects of Low Testosterone,” Maximize Your Vitality & Potency For Men Over 40, Smart Publications, Petaluma, CA, 1999, p. 225.
- Ibid., p. 74.
- Pearson D; Shaw S. The Life Extension Companion. New York: Warner Books, 1984.
- Sikora R, Sohn M, Friedrich J, Rohrmann D, Schafer W, Anchlen F. Ginkgo biloba extract in the therapy of erectile dysfunction. J Urol. 1989; 141:188A.
- Morgenthaler J, Simms M. The Smart Guide to Better Sex. Smart Publications, Petaluma, CA, 1999. p32.
- Ibid.
- Op. cit., p32-33..
- Op. cit., p33.
- Morales A; Condra M; Owen J A; Surridge D H; Fenemore j: Harris C. Is yohimbine effective in the treatment of organic impotence? Results of a controlled trial. J Urol (United States). 139(4): p849-52, Apr 1988. J Urol (United States). 139(4): p849-52, Apr 1988.