5 Ayurvedic Herbs to Help Navigate Impotence

According to Ayurveda, there are three pillars of health, the first two being diet (ahara) and sleep (nidra). Brahmacharya, which means "celibacy,” is the third pillar, and it represents the proper management of sexual activities.

These three together form the foundation on which one can build a life of health and longevity. They are so important that one of the most revered classical Ayurvedic texts, the Charaka Samhita, states that “one who manages these three pillars properly is guaranteed a full life span that will not be cut short by disease.”

Ayurvedic Definition of Klaibya or Erectile Dysfunction

The Ayurvedic texts describe klaibya as male sexual dysfunction. It is the inability in a man to obtain or maintain a firm erection. Basically, Klaibya prevents a man from enjoying sex with his partner because he can’t attain or keep firm erection, which often leaves the partner dissatisfied. Klaibya is not simply a medical problem, but also a social stigma and emotional challenge.

What Causes Impotence in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda lists several reasons that might cause impotence. One of the main reasons for impotence in the Ayurvedic perspective is unwholesome diet and lifestyle, which can aggravate the doshas (especially vata dosha). Anxiety around sexual performance, stress, depression, alcoholism, and addiction can also cause klaibya. Emotional reasons, such as grief and trauma, and physical ailments, such as a hormonal imbalance, neurological damage, and side effects of medications, also contribute to impotency.

Being in a difficult relationship, low testosterone, STDs, or even a structural abnormality of the penis can also lead to impotence, Ayurveda tells us. Last but not the least, old age and some lifestyle-induced diseases or surgeries may also contribute to klaibya.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Impotence

Ashwagandha: This herb is a popular male rejuvenating herb. Ashwagandha boosts libido, increases stamina, and prevents premature ejaculation. It promotes the production or development of mature spermatozoa. This herb also increases the strength of the reproductive muscles. Ashwagandha is nourishing and grounding, which makes it a popular vata-pacifying herb.

Given that Ashwagandha helps to combat stress, relaxes the mind and body, and nourishes all the seven dhatus (tissues) of the body— plasma, blood, muscle, bone, fat, bone marrow (or nerve), and reproductive fluid—it’s a perfect choice for addressing all factors connected with depleted sexual energy. Depending on the doshic imbalances and the cause of impotence, different herbal formulations may be recommended by your Ayurvedic practitioner.

Kapikacchu: Known as Mucuna pruriens, you might have heard of this herb in connection with Ayurvedic treatment of Parkinson’s disease. But did you know that Kapikacchu can also help impotence? It has a special affinity for balancing vata dosha because of its heavy stabilizing and nourishing qualities. As a natural dopamine booster, it also lowers stress.

In Ayurveda, there is a concept of ojas, which denotes absolute health. The Ayurvedic texts tell us that Kapikacchu is a vital choice for efficiently nurturing and stabilizing the ojas in an individual. It also supports fertility in both men and women. Kapikacchu is known to improve sperm count and sperm motility. It works as a potent aphrodisiac when mixed with milk, ghee, and honey.

Bala: The name of this herb means “strength” in English. It goes by the scientific name Sida cordifolia and is used as rasayana (nourishing herb) in Ayurvedic preparations. Because of its nourishing and strengthening properties, it impacts the central nervous system and provides relief from anxiety.

Bala is effective in managing fatigue caused by a hectic lifestyle. Being a natural aphrodisiac, it improves libido and sexual wellbeing. It is beneficial in treating erectile dysfunction, as it contains ephedrine, which acts as a mood-altering and enhancing drug that increases the duration of an erection and controls ejaculation during intercourse.

Shilajit: Shilajit is one of the most versatile medicines in Ayurveda. Translated from Sanskrit, Shilajit means “the destroyer of weakness.” Shilajit, commonly known as Asphaltum, Black Bitumen, or Mineral Pitch in English, is a natural substance found mainly in the Himalayas. It is a health rejuvenator that not only improves sexual stamina, but also enhances energy levels.

Shilajit is also known to improve testosterone levels and enhance male fertility. Studies show that men who consume Shilajit have a higher sperm count and sperm motility than men who don’t try this treatment.

Gokshura: Known as Gokhru in Marathi, Nerunji Mull in Tamil, and Bindii in Hindi, this is a popular Ayurvedic herb that is used in many male sexual performance boosters. In Western countries, Gokshura is better known as the popular dietary supplement Tribulus terrestris. This aphrodisiac improves sex drive by boosting testosterone.

Healing from Impotence

It is estimated that by 2025, 322 million men worldwide will be affected by erectile disfunction, an increase from 152 million men in 1995. Healing from impotence—an issue that affects the mind and spirit as well as the body—is possible if methods are used skillfully and mindfully.

While it may seem tempting to try these herbs if you are dealing with impotence and erectile dysfunction, Ayurveda is a customized system of healing, and practitioners need to determine any medications, pre-existing health conditions, and doshic imbalances before prescribing herbs. So don’t try any herbs without first consulting with your Ayurvedic doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner.

Disclaimer: The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional. If you are looking for advice from a trained Ayurvedic coach, contact Sweta here.

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