Herbs for men
Ginkgo biloba for erectile dysfunction: does it work?
Ginkgo biloba is famous as a “circulation herb”, so it is often added to male enhancement products. Here is what the research says about ginkgo biloba for erectile dysfunction.
In short: Ginkgo may improve blood flow in small vessels, which is why it has been tried for erectile dysfunction. However, controlled trials have generally found no clear benefit for ED, including antidepressant-related sexual problems. Ginkgo can increase bleeding risk and interact with several medicines.
What is ginkgo biloba?
Ginkgo is one of the oldest living tree species. Extracts from its leaves are standardised to contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may affect blood flow and blood clotting.
How it might help erections
Ginkgo may help blood vessels relax and improve circulation in small vessels. In theory, this could support erections.
What the research shows
- Early, uncontrolled reports suggested ginkgo helped men with sexual side effects from antidepressants.
- Later, better-designed placebo-controlled trials did not confirm this benefit.
- There is no strong evidence that ginkgo improves erectile dysfunction in general.
Overall, ginkgo is not considered an effective ED remedy.
Side effects and interactions
- Headache, dizziness, stomach upset and allergic skin reactions.
- Bleeding risk: ginkgo may slow blood clotting. Avoid it with warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel or other blood thinners, and stop before surgery.
- It may interact with some antidepressants, anti-epileptic drugs and diabetes medicines.
- Raw ginkgo seeds are toxic and should not be eaten.
Better-supported options
If circulation is the problem, the strongest evidence is for exercise, quitting smoking, weight loss and a heart-friendly diet. Among herbs, Korean red ginseng has more research. See ginseng for erectile dysfunction and L-arginine for erectile dysfunction.
If you take antidepressants
Sexual side effects from antidepressants are common. Do not stop your medicine. Speak to the professional who prescribed it, as dose changes or alternatives may help. See medications that cause erectile dysfunction and depression and erectile dysfunction.
Personalised advice
Our naturopaths review your medicines before suggesting any herb, to avoid risky interactions, and build a natural plan that suits your health.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- How often can you get and keep an erection firm enough for sex: almost always, most of the time, sometimes, or rarely?
- Do you still notice morning or night-time erections?
- Have stress, poor sleep, alcohol, smoking or long hours increased recently?
- Do you take medicine for blood pressure, the heart, diabetes or mood?
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
If you answered “sometimes” or “rarely” to the first question, a consultation is a sensible next step. Morning erections that still happen are often a reassuring sign that lifestyle, stress or confidence are playing a part, which natural support can address well. A yes to question four means any remedy needs checking for interactions first.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Does ginkgo biloba help erectile dysfunction?
Controlled trials have generally found no clear benefit for ED.
Can ginkgo help sexual side effects from antidepressants?
Early reports suggested it might, but placebo-controlled trials did not confirm this.
Is ginkgo biloba safe?
It may cause bleeding problems and interact with several medicines, so get advice before using it.
What is a better herb for erections than ginkgo?
Korean red ginseng has more research for ED, although lifestyle changes have the strongest evidence.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
