The Top 8 Herbs for Andropause
Andropause, or male menopause, is a condition associated with a drop in sexual activity, testosterone levels, and a diminished frequency of normal erections. It's an age-related concern and many men are in full swing by middle age. Thankfully, there are natural solutions for combatting the effects of andropause.
Best Herbs for Andropause
Herbs that have been used for centuries have demonstrated their potent abilities and received validation from modern science. Here are the top 8 herbs for promoting vitality during andropause.
1. Tribulus terrestris
A natural aphrodisiac, Tribulus has been used in various countries for centuries to stimulate libido and promote normal testosterone levels.[1] The plant's active compound, protodioscin, is a precursor to testosterone. As a blood vessel dilator, protodioscin may allow more blood to reach the penis, resulting in a normal, full erection. Males given Tribulus terrestris may experience an increased erection frequency.[2]
2. Suma
Suma root comes from the suma ground vine (Hebanthe eriantha), typically found in the rain forests of South America. It's been widely used as an herbal tonic for hormone activity and some evidence suggests it's effective for improving libido and sexual response. Ecdysterone, a bioactive compound in suma, may promote normal hormone levels in men, particularly testosterone, which stimulates male sexual performance.[3] Men suffering from andropause or general sexual dysfunction are among the most popular consumers of suma root.
3. Ashwagandha
Also known as "Indian ginseng," Ashwagandha has been used for over 3000 years to remedy various sexual issues. Especially when combined with Tribulus terrestris, ashwagandha may promote fertility in men. Researchers believe that Ashwagandha helps alleviate stress, which is essential for promoting sperm quality.[4] The herb may also be helpful for encouraging normal energy levels, a common issue that plagues many infertile, impotent, and sexually inactive men.[5]
4. Maca
Native to Peru, maca (also known as Peruvian ginseng) has been a favorite aphrodisiac and sexual endurance enhancer for thousands of years. Research has consistently shown maca to produce a significant erectile response.[6] Positive effects on ejaculation rates sperm quality have also been reported.[7, 8]
5. Avena sativa
Avena sativa or oats is a potent tool for testosterone production, energy enhancement, endurance, and prostate health. Compounds in Avena sativa may stimulate luteinizing hormone, the hormone responsible for activating the production of testosterone. Avena offers help for promoting a healthy sexual response, libido, and orgasm frequency.[9]
6. Tongkat ali
Another herb with powerful aphrodisiac properties, tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) has been shown to stimulate libido, semen quality, and muscle growth.[10, 11, 12] These effects are attributed to tongkat ali's positive effects on testosterone levels. Middle-aged males experiencing menopause may see changes in their sexual health while supplementing with this Malaysian herb![13]
7. Catuaba
Similar to Tribulus terrestris, Catuaba bark promotes a strong and longer-lasting erection by increasing blood flow to the penis.[14] Catuaba may also increase the brain's sensitivity to dopamine, a neurotransmitter that enhances the pleasurable effects experienced during sex.[15]
8. Muira puama
Studies have shown that Muira puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides), an herb native to Brazil, may promote blood flow to support the chances of having a normal erection.[16] Men who are experiencing andropause often seek out Muira puama for this reason, and its ability to increase sexual desire and satisfaction.
A Final Thought
Whether it's reducing stress or promoting testosterone levels or blood flow, there are plenty of natural aphrodisiacs for supporting sexual health. I recommend Androtrex®, an organic Raw Herbal Extract™ blend of several of the herbs above, including Tribulus, ashwagandha, and maca, as well as Cordyceps mushroom and horny goat weed.
Getting enough exercise and sleep are also integral for battling the early onset of andropause symptoms.
References (16)
- Gauthaman K, Ganesan AP, Prasad RN. Sexual effects of puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) extract (protodioscin): an evaluation using a rat model. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2003 April;9(2):257-65.
- Singh S, Nair V, Gupta YK. Evaluation of the aphrodisiac activity of Tribulus terrestris Linn. in sexually sluggish male albino rats. The Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics. 2012 January;3(1):43-7. doi: 10.4103/0976-500X.92512.
- Arletti R, Benelli A, Cavazzuti E, Scarpetta G, Bertolini A. Stimulating property of Turnera diffusa and Pfaffia paniculata exracts on the sexual-behavior of male rats. Psychopharmacology (Berlin). 1999 March;143(1):15-9.
- Mahdi AA, Shukla KK, Ahmad MK, Rajender S, Shankhwar SN, Singh V, Dalela D. Withania somnifera Improves Semen Quality in Stress-Related Male Fertility. Evidenced-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2009 September 29.
- Shenoy S, Chaskar U, Sandhu JS, Paadhi MM. Effects of eight-week supplementation of Ashwagandha on cardiorespiratory endurance in elite Indian cyclists. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. 2012 October;3(4):209-14. doi: 10.4103/0975-9476.
- McKay D. Nutrients and botanicals for erectile dysfunction: examining the evidence. Alternative Medicine Review. 2004 March;9(1):4-16.
- Lentz A, Gravitt K, Carson CC, Marson L. Acute and chronic dosing of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on male rat sexual behavior. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2007 March;4(2):332-9; discussion 339-40.
- Gonzales GF, Cordova A, Gonzales C, Chung A, Vega K, Villena A. Lepidium meyenii (Maca) improved semen parameters in adult men. Asian Journal of Andrology. 2001 December;3(4):301-3.
- Malviya N, Jain S, Gupta VB, Vyas S. Recent studies on aphrodisiac herbs for the management of male sexual dysfunction--a review. Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica. 2011 January-February;68(1):3-8.
- Tambi MI, Imran MK, Henkel RR. Standardised water-soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat ali, as testosterone booster for managing men with late-onset hypogonadism. Andrologia. 2012 May;44 Suppl 1:226-30. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01168.x.
- Ang HH, Lee KL, Kiyoshi M. Eurycoma longifolia Jack enhances sexual motivation in middle-aged male mice. The Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology. 2003;14(3):301-8.
- Ang HH, Ngai TH, Tan TH. Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack on sexual qualities in middle aged male rats. Phytomedicine. 2003;10(6-7):590-3.
- Tambi MI, Imran MK. Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian Journal of Andrology. 2010 May;12(3):376-80. doi: 10.1038/aja.2010.7.
- Antunes E, Gordo WM, de Oliveira JF, Teixeira CE, Hyslop S, De Nucci G. The relaxation of isolated rabbit corpus cavernosum by the herbal medicine Catuama and its constituents. Phytotherapy Research. 2001 August;15(5):416-21.
- da Silva AL, Bardini S, Nunes DS, Elisabetsky E. Anxiogenic properties of Ptychopetalum olacoides Benth. (Marapuama). Phytotherapy Research. 2002 May;16(3):223-6.
- Antunes E, Gordo WM, de Oliveira JF, Teixeira CE, Hyslop S, De Nucci G. The relaxation of isolated rabbit corpus cavernosum by the herbal medicine Catuama and its constituents. Phytotherapy Research. 2001 August;15(5):416-21.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.