Having a healthy libido depends as much on the mind as it does on the body. We are talking about a strong mind-body connection. Unfortunately, many people suffer from a lack of libido and an inadequate sexual response. Libido problems are extremely common, with some reporting a prevalence rate of up to 52 percent in men and up to 63 percent in women. These men and women experience ongoing sexual problems, as well as embarrassment, shame, feelings of low self-worth, depression, and anxiety.

For men
Some natural treatments that are available to overcome low libido in men include Gingko biloba extract (GBE), Korean red ginseng, L-arginine, acupuncture, and specific pelvic-floor exercises.

Gingko biloba extract
Some men find that GBE relieves their libido problems. It works by increasing the production of nitric oxide synthase, an enzyme that relaxes the smooth muscle of the penis, thus increasing blood flow and erectile function. GBE does not work in all men, but at 240 mg per day, the results can sometimes be excellent. GBE has even been used clinically to offset the sexual dysfunction induced by antidepressant medications. Note, however, that men on blood-thinning medications such as warfarin need to have their blood-clotting function measured periodically if GBE is taken concurrently.

Korean red ginseng
Korean red ginseng, one of the best-studied herbal medicines for male libido problems, has even more clinical evidence to support its use than GBE. Red ginseng has been shown to increase penile width (girth) and rigidity, duration of erection, and satisfaction based on a mechanism of action that increases production of nitric oxide and blood flow to the penis. The dose to consider is 1.8 to 2.7 g per day, although the higher dosage can sometimes be too stimulating and anxiety provoking for some men.

Begin by taking 1.8 g daily for six weeks. If there is no improvement after the initial six weeks, then increase the dose to 2.7 g daily for another six weeks. If there are no perceptible improvements by 12 weeks, discontinue this treatment and try something else.

L-arginine
The amino acid L-arginine also works by increasing nitric oxide production. Although the results of human studies have been mixed, it has been shown to increase blood flow to the penis and improve sexual function. The dose range to try is 1.5 to 5 g per day on an empty stomach away from food. The therapeutic properties of L-arginine can be enhanced if it is taken with 40 mg of maritime pine tree bark extract twice daily.

L-arginine should not be used by men who have had a previous heart attack or who experience regular outbreaks of oral and/or genital herpes. Start with 2.5 g daily for six weeks. As with Korean red ginseng, increase the dosage to the higher end of the range if there is no improvement by six weeks. Discontinue use if there is no improvement after 12 weeks of use.

Exercises
Further, pelvic-floor exercises have been shown to increase the muscles that facilitate penile rigidity during erection. Men can stop and start the flow of urine several times each day while urinating. This can also be done without urinating. If the appropriate muscles have contracted, the base of the penis should move up slightly toward the abdomen.

Jonathan Prousky, ND, is the chief naturopathic medical officer of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. His private practice focuses on the naturopathic treatment of mental health disorders.

Source: alive #316, February 2009