Lately Viagra has dominated the news and headlines as the only remedy for erectile dysfunction, commonly referred to as impotence. Despite the aggressive media campaign on behalf of Viagra, natural remedies are available that are equally effective, probably safer, and certainly more cost-effective in restoring erectile function. Used for centuries in West Africa, yohimbe bark was used as a tea to enhance virility. For more than 50 years, before the advent of Viagra, an extract of yohimbe bark, with its active ingredient yohimbine, was used in the United States to treat sexual problems in both males and females. Some human trials have shown that yohimbine provides benefits if there is no organic cause of erectile dysfunction. That is, if the decrease in libido is a result of stress, anxiety, or advancing years, and not due to any illnesses, including psychiatric conditions. The latest German study published in 1997 shows that 71% of 83 males diagnosed with erectile dysfunction responded favorably to yohimbine treatment over an eight-week period. More importantly, it should be noted that yohimbe bark extract does not require testosterone as an aid to enhance libido. |