These days, it has become much more acceptable to talk about and admit to difficulties regarding your libido. There are many reasons why libido may drop: nutritional deficiencies, illness, and hormone imbalances, are three common causes.

According to recent estimates, 30 million American men suffer from sexual health problems. The good news is that, for the majority of these people, the problem is treatable. Having intimate physical relations with someone is actually the result of a complex combination of actions. Brain stimuli, blood vessel and nerve function, and hormones are all involved. When something interferes with any of these actions, symptoms of impotence can result. Conditions as diverse as arteriosclerosis, vascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure can all interfere with sexual health, as can alcohol.

To boost your libido, consider taking ginseng as an alternative remedy to prescription drugs and their side effects. Historically, ginseng was considered a cure-all by herbalists. Today it is marketed as an energy booster, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant due to its saponin content and capacity to increase circulation and balance the system.

Ginseng has also been proven to enhance sexual function in both men and women. The plant grows wild in China and other East Asian countries and has been used for well over 5,000 years for its restorative properties. The English word “ginseng” is derived from the Chinese term “rénshēn,” which literally translates as “man root.” This phrase refers to the root’s characteristic forked shape, which resembles the legs of a man.

In a clinical trial conducted at the Pharmacology and Toxicology Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, researchers investigated the effect of ginsenoside (a purified ingredient from ginseng) on sexual function. They found mice given ginsenoside out-performed in all areas and showed higher testosterone levels.

Remember that one of the biggest culprits when it comes to poor sexual health is medication. The list of drugs that could potentially cause impotence as a prescription side effect is long. Antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure medication, diuretics, sedatives, and ulcer medications can all hinder performance.

One last bit of health advice: atherosclerosis is another factor that greatly increases the risk for suffering from sexual performance problems. Atherosclerosis is a hardening of the arteries that affects blood flow and circulation. This can impact both the heart and the reproductive organs in a negative way (in fact, impotence is often a sign that someone is suffering from atherosclerosis). This is yet another reason why it is important to avoid fatty foods that can lead to the production of plaque, causing your arteries to become clogged.

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