Plantation Erectile Dysfunction: Understanding This Rare Condition

Plantation Erectile Dysfunction- not a medical term If you search about plantation erectile dysfunction on the internet, you will realise that it is not a medical term. Instead it can be understood as referring to plant derived treatments for erectile dysfunction.  Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common sex problems affecting millions of men. It is characterised by difficulty in achieving or keeping an erection that is good enough for sexual intercourse [1] ED can be caused by a lot of reasons which may involve physical, anatomical and psychological factors. Nowadays men all over the world have been searching for natural and herbal remedies for erectile dysfunction.  In fact, the use of plants and herbs to treat male sexual health problems is not something new and is a key part of many traditional medicine systems [2]

Plants as a form of ancient medicine for ED

People from different communities have been using plants to manage erectile dysfunction long before modern medicines came. Let us dive into some drugs that were used by different ancient communities to treat sex problems. 

Indian ayurvedic system

People in India were using herbs like Tribulus terrestris (known as Gokshura), Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) and Ashwagandha (Indian ginseng) as a treatment for sex problems. These herbs have been believed to boost libido, increase testosterone levels, and improve erection quality. [3]  

Traditional Chinese medicine system

Erectile dysfunction treatment through plant-based remedies has been practiced a lot by Traditional Chinese Medicine during centuries. Red ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, is one of the commonly used Chinese herbs for medical treatment of erectile dysfunction in TCM. This herb is shown to increase blood circulation and thereby play an essential role in ED treatment. Because of its therapeutic effects it is also called “herbal viagra” [4] 

African community

Yohimbe is a tree found in most of the parts of Africa. This tree has a compound which is extracted from its bark.  Yohimbe bark produces two traditional medical effects which include- increasing sexual desire and erectile dysfunction treatment. Research shows that this Yohimbe improves blood flow and nerve signals to the penis therefore making it a natural remedy for erectile dysfunction. [5] 

Are Plants Remedies For ED Backed By Science?

Plants and herbal remedies are a good option for people who look up for a natural remedy over modern medicine. Different herbs have shown promising effects in men with erectile dysfunction. [6] These herbs though can form a foundation as a source in modern drugs, but it is always important to consider a healthcare professional before trying any natural remedies.  A systematic study evaluated 24 randomized controlled trials which involved 2,080 male participants to assess the performance and safety of different herbal supplements used for treating erectile dysfunction [7]. Research has established that adverse events occurred in nineteen out of twenty-four studies but the reported side effects did not exceed those observed from placebos in most clinical trials. This study showed that the evidence of plant remedies for ED is limited and should be studied more.  Similarly another study shows that serious adverse effects may occur with various herbal supplements like yohimbine, ginseng and maca. The substance Yohimbine can cause a lot of side effects like dizziness, headaches, muscle discomfort, skin flushing together with digestive problems. Various reactions in people with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases may occur.  [8] These contradictory findings make it necessary to double think before using any herbal remedies to treat ED. A proper consultation from a healthcare professional may minimize these above cited potential links.

Best Allopathic Treatments For Erectile Dysfunction

Natural and herbal remedies may provide temporary relief, but they fail to achieve long lasting results. Evidence-based allopathic methods deliver the most successful remedies against erectile dysfunction. The following allopathic treatments [9] are supported by scientific research and clinical practise-

Oral drugs or PDE5 inhibitors

These are the most commonly advised medications for ED. PDE5 inhibitor drugs are approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the U.S. for the treatment of ED.  These drugs increase the blood flow in the penis, thus making it easier to achieve an erection.

Penile injections

Penile injections are the treatment of choice when people do not benefit from oral medications.

Hormone replacement or testosterone therapy

This is the treatment of choice when ED is caused by low testosterone levels. Testosterone therapy helps in regaining normal sexual function and boost sexual desire as well. The suggested therapy includes the application of gels, patches or injections. 

Vacuum erection devices

This device produces erections by using a penile pump together with a cylinder that helps in creating suction to draw blood into the penis. Vacuum erection devices come into action when all other treatments have been unsuccessful.

Surgical penile implant insertion

The surgical treatment for ED involves insertion of a penile implant. It offers the highest success and satisfaction among the patients. 

Vascular surgery

This type of surgery is advised when there is poor blood supply to the penis. This can result from the blocked arteries. In vascular surgery, the damaged blood vessels are repaired to restore better blood flow.