08.31.11
Only three out of 10 supplements selected for testing that are for sexual enhancement passed ConsumerLab.com’s latest investigation. Four products contained less of a key ingredient than claimed on the label, one product was contaminated with an unacceptable level of lead, and two products lacked FDA-required information on their labeling. Due to concern over supplements being “spiked” with Viagra and related compounds, all products were screened for such compounds but none were found.
Testing focused on products made with yohimbe and/or epimedium (“horny goat weed”), two popular ingredients found in natural remedies for sexual dysfunction. Some products also contained and were tested for L-arginine, an amino acid involved in blood flow (the focus of a separate Product Review of L-Arginine Supplements).
It is estimated that over 30% of men suffer from erectile dysfunction and over 40% of women live with a lack of libido or have trouble achieving orgasm. “It’s no wonder that many people are willing to try supplements that promise to improve sexual functioning and fulfillment,” says Tod Cooperman, MD, ConsumerLab.com’s president. As discussed in the report, natural ingredients can help, to a limited degree, with erectile dysfunction and, possibly, libido.
Testing focused on products made with yohimbe and/or epimedium (“horny goat weed”), two popular ingredients found in natural remedies for sexual dysfunction. Some products also contained and were tested for L-arginine, an amino acid involved in blood flow (the focus of a separate Product Review of L-Arginine Supplements).
It is estimated that over 30% of men suffer from erectile dysfunction and over 40% of women live with a lack of libido or have trouble achieving orgasm. “It’s no wonder that many people are willing to try supplements that promise to improve sexual functioning and fulfillment,” says Tod Cooperman, MD, ConsumerLab.com’s president. As discussed in the report, natural ingredients can help, to a limited degree, with erectile dysfunction and, possibly, libido.