Erectile dysfunction can be a frustrating and demoralizing condition, particularly when standard treatments do not work. There is little scientific evidence that apple cider vinegar can treat erectile dysfunction.

Apple cider vinegar may, however, treat some of the medical conditions that can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED). Anecdotal evidence and folk medical tradition both suggest that ED may improve with apple cider vinegar.

Most men experience few or no side effects associated with apple cider vinegar, making it a possible alternative for men concerned about the health effects of ED drugs.

Fast facts on apple cider vinegar and ED:

• Apple cider vinegar is a popular folk remedy.
• ED, sometimes called impotence, includes a range of symptoms.
• For most people, apple cider vinegar is reasonably safe and well tolerated.
• Apple cider vinegar is not a scientifically validated treatment for ED.

What is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider is fermented apple juice. Apple cider vinegar is made from apple cider. Apple cider commonly contains alcohol, so apple cider vinegar may, too.

The specific content and concentrations of alcohol and apples in apple cider vinegar vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Like all vinegar, apple cider vinegar must contain at least 4 grams (g) per 100 milliliters (ml) of acetic acid to be classified as vinegar.

Proponents say it can cure hiccups, sore throats, congestion, and stomach pain. It might also lower cholesterol, treat minor skin problems, such as dandruff and acne, help with leg cramps, and eliminate bad breath.

Apple cider vinegar for ED

For some men, ED means being completely unable to get an erection. In others, an erection does not last long enough or takes a lot of effort to sustain.

No studies have directly tested the effects of apple cider vinegar on ED. This means that a man should not use the vinegar as the only treatment for his ED, particularly when he does not know what is causing the problem.

The most common problems that lead to ED include:

• anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues
• kidney disease
• multiple sclerosis
• type 2 diabetes
• heart disease
• high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• injuries to the penis due to surgery or trauma
• bladder cancer or bladder surgery

Apple cider vinegar can treat some, but not all, causes of ED. Moreover, research on the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar is mixed.

Some studies that found a benefit were small or poorly designed. In other cases, some studies found a benefit while others did not. So men should talk to their doctors before trying apple cider vinegar for ED.

Is apple cider vinegar safe?

People allergic to apples or cider should not use apple cider vinegar.

There are safety concerns when using potent apple cider vinegar. One study investigated the potency of apple cider vinegar tablets sold at various stores.

The products varied significantly and often differed in potency and acidity from the claims made on the label. That study followed reports of people whose throats were burned following the use of apple cider vinegar tablets.

People with a history of issues with acid reflux or other acid-related stomach problems may wish to avoid apple cider vinegar. Because of the reports about the vinegar burning people’s throats, it is best for people with throat pain, mouth sores, or ulcers to avoid apple cider vinegar unless a doctor advises otherwise.

How to use apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a nutritional supplement, so there is no single recommended dosage. It has a very strong flavor, which makes it useful as a pungent seasoning in some dishes.

A few ways to use apple cider vinegar include:

• Adding a small quantity, such as a teaspoon, to a smoothie.
• Replacing salad dressing or other vinegars with apple cider vinegar.
• Swallowing a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar as a daily supplement.
• Mixing a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with sparkling water for a flavorful drink.

Takeaway

ED can be well managed with a number of treatments. Prescription drugs can help a man get and sustain an erection. Treatment for underlying medical conditions can also help. A man with depression or anxiety may find that his ED improves with therapy, medication, or both. Likewise, couples counseling can help couples overcome stress or relationship-related ED.

Apple cider vinegar may be an effective supplement to standard treatments for medical conditions linked to ED. However, when a man does not know the cause of his ED, he should not use apple cider vinegar as his first choice of remedy.

Instead, he should see his doctor for testing to understand the underlying cause. Once the doctor has identified a cause, both standard and supplemental treatments — including apple cider vinegar — may help improve symptoms.

Source: MedicalNewsToday
“Can apple cider vinegar treat erectile dysfunction?” by:Zawn Villines