Male menopause is an issue for many men after the age of 40. The drop in testosterone is slow and subtle, as a result, most men may not even notice the change. But since the decline in testosterone may be magnified by other age-related health changes, some men experience considerable discomfort. A drop in testosterone can create significant changes affecting the quality of life and the function of multiple organs and systems. Andropause is often called the male equivalent to menopause, as it is characterized by a number of uncomfortable symptoms. The more immediate noticeable effects of male menopause include loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, reduced muscle bulk, diminished mental acuity, impaired memory, mood changes, and fatigue.
Herbal medication may interact with prescribed medication. Always consult your healthcare professional.
Herbs That Assist Male Menopause
Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) stimulates libido and restores normal testosterone levels. This herb also increases men’s sex drive. The dosage is 6g of tribulus root twice daily, before breakfast in the morning and at night before dinner. Men can also take Male Support extract which is specifically designed for men’s health.
Horny goat weed (Epimedium sagittatum) helps improve sexual performance, specifically erectile dysfunction. Horny goat weed helps increase blood flow throughout the body which helps improve blood flow to the genitals. It is well known for combating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction and low libido. It also increases dopamine levels in the brain, helping to stimulate the various pleasure centers.
Yohimbe (Pausinystalia yohimbe) is taken to treat sexual issues such as low libido and erectile dysfunction. Yohimbe enhances the nitric oxide pathways increasing blood flow to the genital organs. It also helps promote weight loss.
There are several side effects such as irregular or rapid heartbeat, kidney failure, seizure, and even heart attack. Do not take Yohimbe until you contact your healthcare professional.
Suma (Pfaffia paniculata) a ground vine, is useful as a tonic to help improve libido and sexual desire. Suma contains a bioactive compound that helps promote normal testosterone levels in men, stimulating sexual performance.
Maca (Lepidium meyenii ) is a popular aphrodisiac and sexual endurance enhancer. This herb produces a significant erectile response in men. Maca also improves sperm quality. It is an adrenal tonic and a sex hormone tonic. It also improves libido, stress relief, increased energy, increasing sperm count and helping with erectile dysfunction. Dosage ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 mg per day.
Oat straw (Avena sativa) benefits testosterone production, energy enhancement, endurance, and prostate health. This herb stimulates the hormone responsible for activating the production of testosterone, the luteinizing hormone. Oat straw assists with low energy, poor concentration, and sleeplessness.
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) has powerful aphrodisiac properties and this herb stimulates libido, improves semen quality and promotes muscle growth. Many of these effects are attributed to positive effects on testosterone levels. This root triggers the body’s own natural capacity to create testosterone.
Catuaba (Erythroxylum catuaba) promotes strong and longer-lasting erections and more powerful orgasms. It achieves this by increasing blood flow to the penis. Catuaba also increases the brain’s sensitivity to dopamine, a powerful neurotransmitter involved with pleasure feelings during sex.
Muira puama (Ptychopetalum) promotes blood flow and increases the ability to sustain normal erections.
Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) decreases the symptoms of anxiety and psychological stress which are two prevalent symptoms of male menopause.
Lifestyle Changes And Exercise
Changing your diet to include a more plant-based diet and eating organic meats help boost and balance testosterone levels. Foods rich in zinc, magnesium and vitamin C are important for sexual health.
Foods such as the following are rich in vitamins and minerals needed for men’s sexual health.
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Quinoa
- Cashews
- Lentils
- Spinach
- Asparagus
- Mushrooms
- Organic + grass-fed beef, turkey and lamb
- Cauliflower
- Bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Strawberries
- Oranges
- Papaya
- Kale
- Cabbage
- Chard
- Beet greens
- Summer squash
- Black beans
- Raw cacao
- Sunflower seeds
Excercise
Strength training and high-intensity cycling can help to increase testosterone levels. These vigorous activities also help to boost your body mass index (BMI), bone strength and muscle mass.
Whether it’s for reducing stress, promoting blood flow or testosterone levels, there are plenty of natural aphrodisiacs for supporting male sexual health. For more information on male health check out my articles What Herbs Can Men Take For Optimal Sexual Health? and How Can Men Be Proactive For Prostate Health
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