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Vacuum devices that increase the inflow of blood into the penis have been tried with varied success rate. Surgical treatments for implanting penile erecting devices, reconstruction of the blood vessels or to block the veins that cause leakage of blood from the tissues of the penis have also been tried.

Natural remedies
Many natural herbs and supplements are available for the natural treatment of erectile dysfunction. However, these should be used with caution as long term studies have not yet been completed to measure their safety. Nevertheless, a significant amount of people have reported successful use.
DHEA has been noted to be useful in men with low testosterone levels. The adverse effects include the occurrence of acne and lowering of “good” cholesterol levels.
Ginkgo biloba was reported to increase the blood flow to the penis and thereby help in erection. Regular use of this herb can reduce the clotting ability of the blood.
L-arginine supplements are a type of amino acid that works in a way similar to that of Viagra. The side effects are also similar; lowers the blood pressure, causes abdominal cramps and can also cause diarrhea at high doses.
Ginseng is another herb used in Chinese medicine along with ginkgo. This is commonly used in herbal teas and has been found to effective in individuals suffering from erectile dysfunction. This is a relatively safe herb.
Yohimbe which is obtained from the bark of the African yohimbe tree is used to treat psychological type of erectile dysfunction. However, the use of this herb is associated with a number of adverse effects such as increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeats, nausea and headache.
Supplements such as zinc have been tried in individuals suffering from zinc deficiency while, folic acid and vitamin E are advised along with Viagra for better erections.
- Photo courtesy of epsos on Flicker: www.flickr.com/photos/epsos/4907209228
- www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003164.htm
- www.emedicinehealth.com/impotenceerectile_dysfunction/page2_em.htm
- kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/impotence/
- menshealth.about.com/od/sexualdysfunction/a/Treat_Impotence.htm
- altmedicine.about.com/cs/conditionsetoh/a/erectiledysfunc.htm
- www.mayoclinic.com/health/erectile-dysfunction-herbs/MC00064