Herbs and supplements
Do erectile dysfunction supplements work? An honest look
Pharmacy shelves and websites are full of products for stronger erections. So do erectile dysfunction supplements work? Some have modest evidence, many have none, and a few are unsafe.
In short: A few supplements, such as L-arginine with pine bark extract, Korean red ginseng and L-citrulline, have small studies suggesting modest benefits for mild ED. Many popular products have little or no evidence. Some products sold as herbal contain hidden prescription drugs. Supplements work well only as part of a plan that addresses the cause, chosen with professional guidance.
Supplements with some evidence
Korean red ginseng
Several small trials suggest improvements in erections. See ginseng for erectile dysfunction.
L-arginine and pine bark extract
Combinations have shown benefits in some studies. Read L-arginine for erectile dysfunction.
L-citrulline
May help mild ED by supporting nitric oxide.
Vitamin D and zinc
May help men who are deficient. See vitamins for erectile dysfunction.
Popular supplements with weak evidence
- Tribulus
- Horny goat weed
- Maca (may help desire more than erections)
- Many blended male enhancement products
Supplements to avoid
- Yohimbe, which can raise blood pressure and heart rate, see yohimbe for ED
- Any product promising instant results
- Unregistered products, see unregistered sex pills in South Africa
Why supplements alone often disappoint
ED usually has a cause: circulation, weight, blood sugar, stress or sleep. A supplement cannot fix these on its own.
Safety first
Supplements can interact with blood pressure, heart, blood-thinning and diabetes medicines. Check with a naturopath or appropriately registered medical professional first.
How we help
Our naturopaths recommend herbal support only where it suits you, as part of a personalised natural plan. Read erectile dysfunction treatment without pills.
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
Which supplement is good for erectile dysfunction?
Korean red ginseng, L-arginine with pine bark and L-citrulline have the most evidence, mainly for mild ED.
Are ED supplements safe?
Many are, but some interact with medicines and some unregistered products contain hidden drugs.
How long do ED supplements take to work?
Most studies measure results after 6 to 12 weeks.
Can supplements replace lifestyle changes?
No. They work well only alongside exercise, weight loss, better sleep and less alcohol.
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
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
- NCCIH: Using dietary supplements wisely
- NCCIH: Asian ginseng
- FDA: Tainted sexual enhancement products
- SAHPRA: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority
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.
