Herbal Impotence
By admin at 28 July, 2009, 4:17 pm
Herbs and Supplements
Manufacturers of herbal remedies and dietary supplements do not need FDA approval to sell their products. This should be a warning to all people who are using over the counter herbal supplements. Like a drug, herbs and supplements can affect the body’s chemistry, and therefore have the potential to produce side effects that may be harmful to the body. Each year, there are numerous reported cases of serious or even lethal side effects caused by herbal products. Patients are strongly encouraged to consult with their doctors before taking any herbal or dietary supplements.
One should take special concern should they see any of the following substances in the list of active ingredients in a dietary or herbal supplement:
Yohimbe. Yohimbe: similar to yohimbine, coming from a tree in West Africa. Side effects include: nausea, insomnia, nervousness, and dizziness. Large doses of yohimbe can increase blood pressure and heart rate and may cause kidney failure.
Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL): found in products marketed for improving sexual function (Verve, Jolt). This substance can be converted to a chemical that can cause toxic and life-threatening effects, including seizures and can even induce a coma.
Gingko: increases the risk for bleeding when consumed in high doses while simultaneously consuming vitamin E, anti-clotting medications, aspirin, or other NSAID. Large doses have also been known to cause convulsions. Commercial gingko preparations have also been reported to contain colchicine, a substance that can be harmful to people with kidney or liver problems.
L- arginine (also called arginine): may cause gastrointestinal problems. It has been proven to lower blood pressure and change chemical levels in the body as well as levels of electrolytes. It could even increase the risk of bleeding. This substance has also been proven to cause allergic reactions as well as asthma attacks.
DHEA: a supplement connected to certain male and female hormones. Studies show inconclusive results in its treatment for erectile dysfunction. DHEA may interact dangerously with other medications. However, currently, there is not enough data to provide any substantial links.
Aphrodisiacs: substances that are supposed to increase one’s sexual drive, performance, or desire. Some examples include:
• Viramax: a well-marketed product that contains yohimbine and three herbal aphrodisiacs: catuaba, muira puama, and maca. It has not been proven to be either effective or safe, and its interactions with medications are unknown.
• Spanish fly (cantharides): is made from dried beetles and is very popular. Its effects can be harmful. Irritation of the urinary and genital tract as well as infection, scarring, and the burning of the mouth and throat have all been reported by patients taking this aphrodisiac. In some cases, it has even caused death. Please consult your doctor first before trying any aphrodisiac.
Other Alternative Products Marketed for Erectile Dysfunction: Vinarol is an over-the-counter supplement that was recalled after reports surfaced that it contained the same ingredients found in Viagra. Herbal supplements sold as Viagro and Vaegra have no association with Viagra and should only be taken after consulting a doctor.
In all cases these herbal drugs can have positive and negative effects. Though they might cause one to achieve a full long lasting erection, they can also cause side effects such as a burning sensation or even worse. It is very important that you take these drugs at your own risk as they have not been scientifically proven, nor approved by the FDA as treatments for ED. Any and all problems you may experience should you take these herbal remedies will unfortunately be considered voluntary and you may not have the right to reap retribution should these effects be serious.
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