Even though prescription medications for male enhancement are more readily available, this has not caused a decline in the popularity of natural supplements. The supplements include natural ingredients that claim to increase libido and sexual arousal. Since the herbal male enhancement pills are classified by the FDA as a dietary supplement this has lead to the perception that it is completely safe. Now there are some consumer watch groups that are protesting this assumption that the supplements are harmless, and the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is leading the way.
With new research being published suggesting that herbal male enhancement supplements might not be as safe or effective as you have been lead to believe, many men are wondering if it is the safest option. Male enhancement supplements contain natural ingredients like horny goat weed, yohimbe, ginseng, and maca, which have been used for centuries to improve libido and increase sexual arousal. What has many scientists concerned is that there is no official data to back any of the supplements’ claims. This also lead to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to declare that natural male enhancement supplements were another form of consumer fraud.
Are the Supplements Effective?
One of the senior nutritionists for CSPI also states that there is little or no evidence to support the claims that all natural supplements can enhance a man’s sexual performance. In clinical trials the herbal supplements often performed the same as the placebos, which is why many consumer watch groups are being to dispute its claims. It should be noted that Korean ginseng did show a remarkable ability to treat male impotence, but only when it was steamed and ingested in large quantities. What makes it possible for the supplements to advertise itself as a male enhancement pill is the fact its not stridently regulated by the FDA. Without the rigorous testing process that the prescribed medications are put through, there is no way to substantiate the claims made by the herbal supplements.
Are The Supplements Safe?
Many men assume that herbal male enhancement supplements are safer than ones that are prescribed. This is often due to the fact that these side effects are generally well known and documented. Adding to the presumption that natural enhancement products are safer, is the belief that any possible side effects will be mild and will not pose a threat to your health. What researchers at The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) want men to know, is that the natural ingredients can cause dangerous side effects and interact with medications that you are already taking. Yohimbe, a common natural ingredient in male enhancement products, is already showing signs off being hazardous to some men. The herb can cause a rise in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and even heart attacks.
A Larger Danger
Since the natural male enhancement supplements are not closely regulated, there is a growing concern over unlisted ingredients. The FDA has issued a warning stating that some natural male enhancement products contain synthetic ingredients that are similar to those found in prescribed supplements. These additional ingredients are known to react negatively with nitrates that some men use to treat high blood pressure and heart disease. When the ingredients interact, some men may experience a dangerous decrease in their blood pressure.
Is There a Safer Option?
This is not meant to discourage men from treating their erectile dysfunction, only to due so under the guidance of a health care professional. In many cases the sexual problem can be treated with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Not only is this safer and reduce the risk of most side effects, it can also improve your overall health. In some cases it might be necessary to add a male enhancement product to your treatment program, and a health care provider can clearly explain all of the risks. It is possible to find a safe option to treat your sexual problem, so you are able to enjoy a healthy and satisfying sex life.
