Certain supplements can inhibit the activity of aromatase, an enzyme that facilitates the transformation of testosterone into estrogen. It helps to maintain higher level of testosterone. One such aromatase inhibitor is grape seed extract. It has been shown to be useful in the treatment of estrogen-dependent breast cancer, due to its ability to prevent the conversion of androgens (male hormones) to estrogens.
Resveratrol, also derived from grapes, has been found to inhibit aromatase.
Zinc may be of benefit in helping to boost testosterone through inhibition of aromatase.
Arginine is an amino acid the body uses to produce nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle, thus allowing for increased blood flow in many parts of the body. Arginine has been shown to improve ED and other nitric oxide–dependent conditions, including atherosclerosis.
Yohimbine (also known as yohimbe) has been used for the treatment of ED for more than 70 years. British researchers conducted a comprehensive review of all controlled clinical trials of Yohimbine for the treatment of ED in humans. They evaluated only studies that were randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, with sufficient statistical analysis. This meta-analysis considered seven such trials, and its authors concluded, "Yohimbine is believed to be a reasonable therapeutic option for ED that should be considered as initial pharmacological intervention"
ED has been associated with declining levels of
dehydroepiandrosterone (
DHEA), an important hormone that tends to be depleted steadily with age. Studies have shown that supplemental
DHEA may be helpful in relieving symptoms of ED in patients with initially low
DHEA levels.