Erectile dysfunction affects at least 150 million men around the world, and that number is expected to reach a staggering 320 million by 2025. The global prevalence of erectile dysfunction was up to 76.5% of the population, and although the condition has been mostly related to aging, there has been a growing number of younger men experiencing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction (1).
In 1998, Viagra (Sildenafil) became the first FDA-approved drug for treating erectile dysfunction, where it became an instant hit not only as a potent medication but also as a recreational drug for those looking to improve their sexual performance (2).
Over the years, several variations of the drug were released in the market. But for those who find Viagra a bit too expensive for their budget or getting a prescription for the medication isn’t an option due to embarrassment, there are alternative therapies that were believed to help deal with erectile dysfunction. One of these is Vicks Vapor Rub. But does Vicks Vapor Rub help with erectile dysfunction?
Vicks Vapor Rub contains menthol.
Some men have reported getting better erections after applying Vicks Vapor Rub on their penis, which is why this has been such a buzzword online. But why exactly does Vicks Vapor Rub help with erectile dysfunction? The answer lies within its active ingredient menthol.
Menthol is widely used in a lot of topical analgesics for its cooling and soothing effect. But menthol is also a vasoactive compound that causes cutaneous vasodilation or the dilation of the blood vessels on the skin, including that of the penis (3).
This is believed to cause an erection, especially because the permeable penile skin quickly absorbs Vicks Vapor Rub.
Although some men have attested to the fact that rubbing Vicks Vapor Rub on their penis helped them get an erection, further scientific studies need to be conducted to prove the efficiency of the alternative treatment method, especially when used as a long-term solution for erectile dysfunction.
There are several conventional methods for addressing erectile dysfunction.
Vicks Vapor Rub may help provide a temporary answer to erectile dysfunction, but you have to remember that you’re dealing with more than just erection problems here. Erectile dysfunction can actually be a sign of a more serious medical condition that needs prompt treatment before it gets worse (4).
So, if you’re experiencing any symptoms of erectile dysfunction, the first step to take would be to consult a doctor who can fully assess your symptoms and give you a proper diagnosis.
The use of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor drugs like Sildenafil and Tadalafil are the first options for treating erectile dysfunction. Still, there are also other conventional treatments available depending on the severity of the condition or its symptoms.
For one, it’s essential to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Losing weight through exercise and a healthy diet will help address other medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension that may be causing your erectile dysfunction.
You can also try relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation to alleviate stress and anxiety that could also be contributing factors to erectile dysfunction.
Of course, you should quit smoking to not only get better erections but also keep your body healthy even as you age.
