Whether they are called herbal Viagra, aphrodisiacs, or sexual enhancers, herbal products to enhance sexual performance are more popular than ever before.

There are many herbs and herbal formulas that work to increase libido and sexual stamina in men. They work in the same way that Viagra does without some of the side effects. These herbal supplements are generally made out of a combination of herbs that increase circulation, balance hormones, and deal with any stress that may be contributing to erectile dysfunction or a lowered sex drive.

While herbs do not work as quickly as most conventional drugs they do work when taken over a period of time. Conventional drugs like Viagra and Cialis may deal with the symptoms but they do not help to cure the underlying problem. Generally herbs and nutritional supplements treat the whole body and may help to cure the problem completely over time.

There are many causes of erectile dysfunction, or E.D. It is normal as men age for their response time to slow down. Testosterone levels begin to drop and "things just don't work the way they used to." For many couples this is a good thing, allowing their intimacy to be more balanced and relaxed.

Other times it isn't such a good thing. E.D. can be caused by medications or illnesses that interfere with the nerve centers or the blood flow to the penis. This may cause the man to be unable to maintain an erection long enough to complete sexual intercourse, or may even mean that he is unable to achieve an erection at all. This can bring stress and strain into a relationship.

For some men Viagra or Cialis is the answer. They are comfortable with the medication and its potential side effects and they are pleased with the results.

But for others looking for a more natural approach there is an alternative to chemical medicines. Herbs, nutritional supplements, diet, and exercise can all work together to deal with the underlying cause of erectile problems.

Maintaining a healthy weight and eating foods that are good for your body are important to every function. You should drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day. Eat a well balanced diet of whole grains, proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Sugar is hard on the system and depletes the B vitamins so it is best to stay away from that.

Eating a few tablespoons of almonds mixed with a few tablespoons of raw pumpkin seeds every day is a good way to strengthen the male sexual system. The zinc helps to strengthen response.

Moderate exercise is good for your circulation. Doing some weight training exercise several times a week can help to raise low testosterone levels. The exercise will also give you a positive state of mind and reduced stress level, which are both important to a healthy sex life.

There are a number of supplements available. Most of these are a combination of several herbs and vitamins.

Generally one of the effects of these supplements is an increase in blood pressure so if you have high blood pressure, talk to your health care provider before you begin taking any supplement.

Most supplements include the following herbs and nutritionals:

• Ginko biloba helps to increase the arterial blood flow. It helps the blood carry more oxygen to the cells. When used for sexual dysfunction 200 mgs per day is the normal dose.
• Ginseng has traditionally been used for impotence in Asian countries. At a dose of 1,800 mg per day men have reported an increase in their ability to maintain an erection as well as rigidity and overall sexual satisfaction.
• Horny Goat Weed is another herb that you will likely find in any herbal combination. It inhibits estrogen and phyto-estrogens and increases sexual desire. Some clinical trials suggest that it helps to rebuild nerve damage. Horny Goat Weed is generally taken at a does of 500 mg per day in a divided dose.
• L-Arganine is an amino acid that helps the body to form nitric oxide, and important part of blood vessel dilation.
• Maca is a Peruvian herb that increases stamina and energy.
• Yohimbe increases sexual performance
• Ashwagandha improves sexual vitality and increases interest. Tribulus Terrestris Extract dialates blood vessels Sarsaparilla helps the body produce testosterone
• Pumpkin seed promotes male sexual function
• Dong Quai is one of the few non- animal sources of vitamin b-12

Before you take any herbal supplement it is important to discuss your plans with your doctor and be aware of any possible interactions with medication that you might be taking.

There are literally hundreds of combinations on the market and some are better than others. Always go with a company that has been around for awhile and has a good reputation.

Beware of any company that makes obviously false statments. While herbal sexual enhancers can be very helpful you are probably not going to achieve the sexual performance of an eighteen year old or add significant size to your penis.

Some of the better quality products for erectile dysfunction and enhanced sexual performance are:

• Steel Libido by Irwin Naturals supports both erectile funtion and libido. It is taken three times daily everyday as a nutritional supplement. You can also take four capsules two hours before sexual activity to achieve a more immediate response.
• Zencore has some amazing claims but the customer reviews are almost all positive.  
• Vicerex is similar to Zencore both use nitric oxide to increase blood flow, similar to Levitra, Cialis, or Viagra.
• Kal is a well known company. The Virility for Men supplement contains several of the herbs on the above list. 

Taking an herbal remedy of any sort can be dangerous if you are taking other medications.  Always check with your doctor before taking herbs or alternative medication.

Herbs generally take three to six weeks to reach full potency in the body.  Do not expect a change over night.

By using natural substances to treat erectile dysfunction you are working with your body to encourage healing rather than to just alleviate the symptoms.