Supplement that could help men in their 30s with common bedroom problem

The name leaves little to the imagination but has become a popular alternative method to medications that claims to help boost sexual performance in men

By Andrew Nuttall, Senior Lifestyle Writer

Selection of over the counter vitamin supplements

Supplement dating back centuries claims to boost sexual performance (Image: Getty)

According to a recent study, up to half of the men under 50 years old may be experiencing symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

The condition has long been linked to older men but it’s possible to experience mild, occasional, or complete erectile dysfunction at any age. A 2013 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine put the estimate a little higher — about 1 in 4 men under age 40 was found to have some form of erectile dysfunction.

Among younger men, the causes of erectile dysfunction are often related to lifestyle and general health. Some of these factors include obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, having a sedentary lifestyle and hormonal disorders such as low testosterone.

While problems with sexual performance are common, it’s a subject that many of us don’t like to talk about. Unsurprisingly, people often turn to alternative methods to try and help with these problems.

Horny goat weed, also known as Barrenwort, is thought to help boost sexual performance. The large, leafy plant has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine (known as yin yang huo). It has been used for centuries to treat a variety of problems, the most common being sexual performance issues.

A close-up view of Barrenwort

A close-up view of 'horny goat weed' - also known as Barrenwort (Image: Getty)

There’s a reason behind this herb’s slightly unusual name. It’s thought that an ancient goat herder noticed his flock become friskier after eating a particular plant (officially called epimedium).

Today, horny goat weed is an over-the-counter herbal supplement that’s sold at most pharmacies and large retailers. It’s sold in many different forms, including tablets, capsules, powders and teas.

Scientists understand that rude-sounding weed contains a chemical compound called icariin, which may help to protect against a wide variety of different conditions. As well as helping with erectile dysfunction, the plant is said to lead to an increased libido.

Away from the bedroom, people have found horny goat weed has properties that can relive hay fever symptoms. Those suffering with the high summer pollen counts took 5 grams (1 tsp) of horny goat weed three times per day, usually after being simmered in a pint of water for up to 15 minutes to create a tea-like drink.

It’s worth noting that studies on how effective horny goat weed is are quite limited. If you have any health concerns, it’s usually best to visit your doctor.

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