VigRX Plus

The male sexual performance industry is full of scammy and ineffective products.

Obnoxious and unsubstantiated claims that supplements can make your penis larger, give you raging erections, and make you last longer in bed are poisoning the industry as a whole. The truth is that most of these supplements don’t work.

However, there are a few supplements that can offer benefits to men experiencing sexual debility when used correctly. One such product is VigRX Plus.

Overall, we’re impressed with the VigRX Plus formula, and the fact that the manufacturer of this product provides sound evidence for the claims made on the bottle.

In this article, we’ll breakdown the ingredients of VigRX Plus, cover how it works, what it’s limitations are, and what to expect while using this supplement.

What is VigRX Plus?

VigRX Plus is a proprietary blend of herbal extracts for supporting male sexual health and libido. It’s made by a company called Leading Edge Health. It’s the main product in the line of VigRX products — which includes VigRX (original), VigRX Delay Spray, VigRX Prostate Support, VigRX Organic BioMaca, VigRX Tongkat Ali, VigRX Delay Wipes, and VigRX Oil.

This particular formula contains 11 herbal extracts, each with their own therapeutic benefits on various male reproductive issues — including erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low libido, and testosterone deficiency.

The Benefits of VigRX Plus Includes:

Supports the ability to get and maintain an erection
Improves libido and sexual arousal in men
Prolongs ejaculation times in men with premature ejaculation
Enhances the intensity of orgasms
Promotes fertility and overall male reproductive health

This supplement is designed to be used on a daily basis to provide both short and long-term improvements in male sexual performance. While this supplement is not a miracle cure, it can offer many benefits to men experiencing mild to moderate forms of sexual debility.

The Side Effects of VigRX Plus

VigRX Plus rarely results in side effects. All the ingredients included in the formula have been proven safe, and this supplement has been used by thousands of men on a regular basis over long periods of time without any issues.

However, as with all supplements, there are some side effects to watch out for:

Nausea or vomiting
Skin rash or irritation
Headaches
Fatigue or lethargy
Indigestion

Side effects are much more likely to occur in men taking other medications alongside VigRX Plus — so if you’re currently taking prescription medications or have an underlying medical condition, it’s wise to speak with your doctor before using VigRX Plus.

What Are the Ingredients of VigRX?

VigRX Plus contains 11 individual herbal extracts:

Korean Red Ginseng (200mg)
Saw Palmetto (200mg)
Hawthorn (200mg)
Ginkgo Biloba (200mg)
Damina (200mg)
Tribulus Terrestris (150mg)
Catuaba (100mg)
Muira Puama (100mg)
Cuscuta (50mg)
Epimedium (30mg)
Bioperine (10mg)

1. Korean Red Ginseng

Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng) is often referred to as the “king of all herbs”. It’s used to promote health and wellbeing in both men and women and offers powerful adaptogenic and cardiotonic benefits. It’s used to support heart health, alleviate the negative side effects stress has on the body, and improve sperm production and libido in men.

As a male tonic, ginseng offers several distinct benefits:

Improves blood flow to the penis to support more rigid and long-lasting erections [1,2]
Increases sex drive and libido [3]
Supports sperm production in the testes [4]
Increases energy levels while engaging in sexual activities [5]
Alleviates the negative impact of stress and depression [6]

How Ginseng Works

Ginseng uses several different mechanisms to provide its effects on male reproductive function. Several of the active ingredients (ginsenosides) increase the production of nitric oxide (NO), which is responsible for dilating the blood vessels that allow blood to flow into the penis to form an erection [1].

Ginsenosides in the herb also interact with the brain — targeting a specialized region of the brain called the hypothalamus [6]. This region is responsible for regulating homeostasis all around the body and is intimately involved with testosterone levels, sexual drive, and stress.

When the hypothalamus is functioning properly we’re more resistant to stress, hormone levels remain stable, we have a strong libido, and we experience more energy in the bedroom.

This herb also has a strong impact on blood glucose regulation and metabolism. Daily use of the herb has been shown to stabilize blood sugar levels — resulting in a steady supply of energy throughout the day.

2. Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a species of palm tree characterized by sharp, saw-like leaf edges. The berries of this palm tree contain a fatty substance packed full of pharmacologically active ingredients specific for male reproductive health.

Traditionally, this herb was used as an aphrodisiac and fertility-enhancer for men. Today, saw palmetto is primarily used to support the prostate gland, and alleviate testosterone-related conditions in older men.

The benefits of saw palmetto include:

May reduce the size of the prostate in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
May alleviate symptoms of male pattern baldness
May increase fertility and libido in men

How Saw Palmetto Works

Saw palmetto contains compounds that inhibit an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase — which is the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) [7].

One of the leading theories for the underlying cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male pattern baldness is a high concentration of DHT. Saw palmetto helps by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT to prevent, and potentially reverse the effects this hormone has on tissues like the prostate and hair follicles that are especially sensitive to this particular androgen.

3. Hawthorn

Hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha) is primarily used to support the cardiovascular system. It’s a popular herbal supplement for protecting the heart from coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis.

The cardiovascular system plays a key role in male reproductive health. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of erectile dysfunction in men.

The benefits of hawthorn include:

Protects the cardiovascular system from free radical damage
Supports vasodilation in the penile arteries to promote a fuller erection
May protect the heart from coronary artery disease

How Hawthorn Works

Hawthorn works through the cardiovascular system by providing high concentrations of flavonoids which act as potent antioxidants that protect the arterial walls from oxidative damage.

More directly, hawthorn promotes microcirculation all around the body, including in the penis through a series of compounds that block angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), as well as nitric-oxide mediated mechanisms [8,9]. The result is a fuller, longer-lasting erection.

4. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest living tree species on earth. It’s a popular health supplement for older men to support both cognitive health, and reproductive function.

Compounds in the seeds of ginkgo trees provide powerful vasodilating effects, which is what gives the herb its benefits. Widening the arteries that feed the brain help remove metabolic byproducts, improve focus and concentration, and support optimal brain function overall.

The same effect helps improve blood flow to the penis, allowing men to achieve a rigid erection more easily.

The benefits of ginkgo include:

Improves the rigidity of duration of an erection
Supports cognitive health by improving blood flow to the brain
May increase libido and mental energy levels

How Ginkgo Works

The active ingredients in ginkgo are a series of powerful antioxidants and a series of terpenoids. The antioxidant compounds protect the cardiovascular system and brain from free radical damage, and the terpenoids promote the relaxation of small blood vessels [10]. This dilating effect is what provides the benefits of the herb towards improving erections.

5. Damiana

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac for both men and women.

This herb has mild euphoric effects, which improve mood and stimulate sexual desire. It’s also been shown to increase the release of oxytocin — which is considered to be the “love chemical”. Oxytocin is a big part of what drives the emotions we feel when we’re in love or aroused.

The benefits of damiana:

Improves sexual desire and libido
May improve pleasure during sexual intercourse
May reduce chronic mood disorders that interfere with arousal
Reduces the conversion of testosterone to estrogen
Supports the relaxation of the corpora cavernosa to improve erectile function

How Damiana Works

Damiana contains compounds that block an enzyme known as aromatase (specifically acacetin and pinocembrin) [11]. Aromatase is responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen.

Therefore, it’s thought that damiana can help support optimal testosterone levels in men by reducing the rate at which active testosterone is converted into estrogen. Higher testosterone levels are associated with improved libido and overall reproductive health in men.

Damiana also contains compounds that support the relaxation of the corpora cavernosa [12] — which is the sponge-like tissue that makes up the bulk of the penis. When the corpora cavernosa is relaxed and filled with blood, it forms an erection.

6. Tribulus terrestris

Tribulus has a long history of use in India where it’s used to support cardiovascular and reproductive health.

It’s one of the most common herbs used in male sexual health supplements for its ability to support testosterone production and enhance libido.

The benefits of tribulus include:

May support the production of testosterone in testosterone-deficient men
Enhances arousal and libido
May support erectile function
Improves male fertility by supporting sperm production

How Tribulus Works

Tribulus contains a variety of saponin compounds (primarily protodioscin) that supports nitric oxide production in the penis [13]. NO release is a key step in the process of forming an erection.

Additionally, saponins in tribulus have been shown to stimulate gonadotropin release in the brain [14], which is the messenger molecule the brain uses to stimulate testosterone production in the testes.

7. Catuaba

Catuaba (Erythroxylum catuaba) is a large tree species from the Amazon rainforest. The bark of the tree is used in the region as an aphrodisiac and male fertility enhancer. It’s considered to be one of the most reliable aphrodisiacs in the Amazon, especially for older men.

The benefits of catuaba include:

Promotes a fuller, more rigid erection
May alleviate symptoms of premature ejaculation
Stimulates sexual arousal and libido
Offers a protective action on age-related cognitive decline
May alleviate symptoms of depression

How Catuaba Works

Catuaba contains several prominent tropane alkaloids [15] that interact with neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Some of these alkaloids also have a vasodilating effect — which is one of the most common mechanisms herbs use to improve erection status in men with erectile dysfunction.

8. Muira Puama

Muira puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides) is another tree species from the Amazon rainforest. This herb is often prepared in combination with catuaba for the same effects.

The benefits of muira puama include:

Improves the rigidity of erection in men with ED
May lengthen the ejaculation times in men with premature ejaculation
Protects the brain from age-related cognitive decline
May increase sperm count
Stimulates sexual arousal and libido

How Muira Puama Works

Muira puama blocks an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine — which is one of the most prominent neurotransmitters in the brain and muscles. By blocking the enzyme that breaks it down, muira puama may improve cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and mood.

This herb, when taken in combination with catuaba, has been shown to stimulate the release of nitric oxide [16] — which has a direct impact on the ability to form an erection.

9. Cuscuta

Cuscuta (Cuscuta chinensis) — also referred to as dodder seed — is a traditional Chinese herb used to promote fertility and libido in both men and women. In Chinese medicine, this herb is considered a yin tonic — which is often used to support sexual energy in men and women with poor libido.

In men, cuscuta is often used to alleviate premature ejaculation and nocturnal emissions.

The benefits of cuscuta:

Improves libido and sexual arousal in men and women
Prolongs ejaculation time in men with premature ejaculation
May improve the hardness and duration of erections

How Cuscuta Works

There’s a lack of research available on the use of cuscuta seed for male reproductive function, and most of the evidence for this herbs use come from anecdotes and traditional use.

However, some of the active ingredients discovered in the herb have been shown to offer improvements in sexual function in other herbs or pharmaceutical preparations [17].

10. Epimedium

Epimedium — aka, horny goats weed — is one of the most well-known male sexual potency enhancers available. It’s included as an ingredient in hundreds of male tonic formulas and has been the subject of hundreds of scientific studies.

The benefits of epimedium include:

Improves the ability to form an erection
May increase sexual desire and libido
May prolong ejaculation time in men suffering from premature ejaculation

How Epimedium Works

Epimedium contains a compound known as icariin. This compound blocks an enzyme known as PDE5 [18], which is the most common mechanism of action used by erectile dysfunction medications including Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra.

PDE5 breaks down a compound called cGMP, which is used to relax the blood vessels delivering blood to the penis. By blocking the effects of this enzyme, cGMP levels rise, allowing more blood to flow into the penis to produce a fuller, more rigid erection.

11. Bioperine

Bioperine is a standardized extract of the black pepper plant (Piper nigrum). It’s included for its ability to increase absorption in the digestive tract, rather than for promoting sexual health or libido.

This is a common ingredient in many formulas to maximize the bioavailability of a herbal formula.

How Much Does VigRX Plus Cost?

The cost for a one-month supply of VigRX Plus is $69.00 — which works out to $2.30 per day.

The more you buy at a time, the cheaper it gets:

1 month supply — $2.30 per serving
2 month supply — $2.15 per serving
3 month supply — $2.00 per serving
4 month supply — $1.90 per serving
5 month supply — $1.85 per serving
6 month supply — $1.82 per serving
12 month supply — $1.64 per serving

The cost savings from the bulk ordering on the Leading Edge Health website aren’t actually that impressive, and you’ll only end up saving a few dollars even with a relatively large order.

Where Can I Buy VigRX Plus?

The best place to buy VigRX Plus is from the Leading Edge Health website directly. They offer free international shipping, and will send this product to virtually every corner on earth.

You can also pick up a box at Walmart, Amazon, eBay, and CVS.

References

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De Andrade, E., De Mesquita, A. A., de Almeida Claro, J., De Andrade, P. M., Ortiz, V., Paranhos, M., … & Erdogrun, T. (2007). Study of the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Asian journal of andrology, 9(2), 241-244.
Yoshimura, H., Kimura, N., & Sugiura, K. (1998). Preventive effects of various ginseng saponins on the development of copulatory disorder induced by prolonged individual housing in male mice. Methods and findings in experimental and clinical pharmacology, 20, 59-64.
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Reay, J. L., Kennedy, D. O., & Scholey, A. B. (2005). Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activity. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 19(4), 357-365.
Lee, S., & Rhee, D. K. (2017). Effects of ginseng on stress-related depression, anxiety, and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. Journal of ginseng research, 41(4), 589-594.
Sultan, C., Terraza, A., Devillier, C., Carilla, E., Briley, M., Loire, C., & Descomps, B. (1984). Inhibition of androgen metabolism and binding by a liposterolic extract of “Serenoa repens B” in human foreskin fibroblasts. Journal of steroid biochemistry, 20(1), 515-519.
Brixius, K., Willms, S., Napp, A., Tossios, P., Ladage, D., Bloch, W., … & Schwinger, R. H. (2006). Crataegus special extract WS® 1442 induces an endothelium-dependent, NO-mediated vasorelaxation via eNOS-phosphorylation at serine 1177. Cardiovascular drugs and therapy, 20(3), 177-184.
Kim, S. H., Kang, K. W., Kim, K. W., & Kim, N. D. (2000). Procyanidins in crataegus extract evoke endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation in rat aorta. Life Sciences, 67(2), 121-131.
Nishida, S., & Satoh, H. (2004). Comparative vasodilating actions among terpenoids and flavonoids contained in Ginkgo biloba extract. Clinica Chimica Acta, 339(1-2), 129-133.
Balunas, M. J., & Kinghorn, A. D. (2010). Natural product compounds with aromatase inhibitory activity: an update. Planta medica, 76(11), 1087.
Arletti, R., Benelli, A., Cavazzuti, E., Scarpetta, G., & Bertolini, A. (1999). Stimulating property of Turnera diffusa and Pfaffia paniculata extracts on the sexual behavior of male rats. Psychopharmacology, 143(1), 15-19.
Singh, S., Nair, V., & Gupta, Y. K. (2012). Evaluation of the aphrodisiac activity of Tribulus terrestris Linn. in sexually sluggish male albino rats. Journal of pharmacology & pharmacotherapeutics, 3(1), 43.
Moghaddam, M. H. G., Khalili, M., Maleki, M., & Abadi, M. E. A. (2013). The effect of oral feeding of Tribulus terrestris L. on sex hormone and gonadotropin levels in addicted male rats. International journal of fertility & sterility, 7(1), 57.
Zanolari, B., Guilet, D., Marston, A., Queiroz, E. F., de Q. Paulo, M., & Hostettmann, K. (2003). Tropane alkaloids from the bark of Erythroxylum vacciniifolium. Journal of natural products, 66(4), 497-502.
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