What is the effect of ginseng on male sexual health?

From the Guidelines

Ginseng may have a positive effect on male sexual health, but its use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as the evidence is not strong enough to support its use as a primary treatment for sexual dysfunction. When considering the use of ginseng for male sexual health, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments, such as PDE-5 inhibitors, which have been shown to improve erectile function and overall sexual satisfaction 1. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2024, suggests that a multidimensional treatment plan, including lifestyle modifications, medical therapy, and referrals to specialists, is the most effective approach to addressing male sexual dysfunction 1. Some key points to consider when evaluating the effect of ginseng on male sexual health include:

• The potential benefits of ginseng, including improved erectile function and increased sexual desire, are not well-established and may vary between individuals
• The use of ginseng may interact with other medications, such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and diabetes medications, and may cause side effects such as insomnia, headaches, and digestive issues
• PDE-5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil and vardenafil, have been shown to be effective in improving erectile function and overall sexual satisfaction, and should be considered as a primary treatment option for sexual dysfunction 1
• Lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation, weight loss, and increasing physical activity, may also improve erectile and sexual function, and should be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan 1. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting ginseng or any other treatment for sexual dysfunction, especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medications.

From the Research

Effects of Ginseng on Male Sexual Health

• Ginseng may have a trivial effect on erectile dysfunction when compared to placebo, with a mean difference of 3.52 on the Erectile Function Domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-15 instrument 2, 3.
• Ginseng may improve men's self-reported ability to have intercourse, with a risk ratio of 2.55 2, 3.
• Ginseng may have little to no effect on adverse events compared to placebo, with a risk ratio of 1.45 2, 3.
• Ginseng may have a trivial effect on men's satisfaction with intercourse, with a mean difference of 1.19 on the Intercourse Satisfaction Domain of the IIEF-15 2, 3.

Specific Studies on Ginseng and Erectile Dysfunction

• A double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that tissue-cultured mountain ginseng extract significantly improved erectile function in male patients with erectile dysfunction 4.
• A study on Korean red ginseng found that it is a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, improving patients' ability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for intercourse 5.
• A randomized controlled trial found that Ginseng supplements can improve sexual function in infertile men, particularly in orgasm function and the total score of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) 6.

Overall Assessment

• The current evidence suggests that ginseng may have a positive effect on male sexual health, particularly in improving erectile function and self-reported ability to have intercourse 2, 4, 5, 6, 3.
• However, the certainty of evidence is generally low, and more high-quality studies are needed to confirm the effects of ginseng on male sexual health 2, 3.