The next component in VigRX Plus is the extract of berries of Serenoa repens or saw palmetto present at 200mg per serving (2 tablets).

Saw palmetto is a small shrub-like palm native to the southern United States. The fruits and extracts of saw-palmetto are taken orally as an herbal medicine to prevent prostatic hyperplasias. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate – has been shown to be correlated with lower quality of life in men, which may include reduced sexual function such as by erectile dysfunction.

Fatty acids and phytosterols of S. repens may act to inhibit an enzyme that is believed to contribute to BPH. Research shows that taking 320mg of saw palmetto daily for 2 months before prostate surgery can reduce the time spent in surgery, blood loss, the development of problems during surgery, and the total time spent in the hospital.

Saw palmetto is also used as a diuretic and urinary antiseptic. Some anti-cancer benefits have also been reported. Saw palmetto may also help prevent androgenic alopecia — a type of hair loss also known as male and female pattern baldness in men and women, respectively.

While proponents of saw palmetto claim that it helps to regulate testosterone levels, there is little evidence confirming this. Although, a specific formulation of saw palmetto has been shown to lead to smaller drops in libido and lower impotence compared to the conventional drug treatment for BPH, it is unclear whether saw palmetto has the same protective effect on the sexual well-being of healthy men.

Some studies also implicate saw palmetto supplements in reducing libido. The most frequently reported adverse events are abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, fatigue, headache, decreased libido and rhinitis. It can increase bleeding when concurrently administered with warfarin and should be used with caution.

Immunostimulant and antihormonal actions have been noted, leading to caution about using saw palmetto containing preparations when hormonal therapies are being used at the same time.

Given the limited evidence supporting S. repens’ role in improving male sexual health, apart from the potential indirect benefits of alleviating the symptoms of BPH, the reasons for inclusion of this herbal component in VigRX Plus are unclear.

The next component in VigRX Plus is the extract of Crataegus laevigata or hawthorn berries present at 200mg per serving (2 tablets).

Hawthorn berries, leaves and flowers are used primarily as a tonic to the heart, blood vessels and circulatory system to promote and protect their overall health and to improve or reverse degenerative changes in the heart, blood vessels and circulatory system as we age.

The chief heart and circulatory conditions where Hawthorn can be useful include angina, congestive heart failure, poor heart performance and output, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, high serum cholesterol and triglycerides, and atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries.

In addition, Hawthorn is a hepatoprotective herb that improves bile flow and metabolism, and hence lipid and cholesterol metabolism by the liver.

As a mild sedative, Hawthorn is of value in the treatment of nervousness and anxiety, as well as mild cases of insomnia. Hawthorn berries also stimulate the bile and the gastric secretions, thereby having a digestive effect that helps to digest and remove accumulations of stagnant food in the digestive tract, especially high fat and/or high protein foods.

Rutin, quercetin and other flavonoids and antioxidants found in the berry, as well as the leaves and flowers, of Hawthorn have a tonic and protective effect on the arteries and blood vessels, and reduce the formation of arterial plaque while maintaining the health and elasticity of the blood vessels. These antioxidants in Hawthorn also protect the body from free radicals that lead to cell damage and premature aging.

This berry appears to have been included in the VigRX Plus formula primarily for its antioxidant and cardiovascular benefits. Doses of 160mg to 1,800mg of hawthorn divided and taken in 2-3 doses daily are typically prescribed for cardiac conditions.

It is generally considered safe but in some people, hawthorn can cause nausea, stomach upset, fatigue, sweating, headache, dizziness, palpitations, nosebleeds, insomnia, agitation, and other problems.

Hawthorn might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. So, consumption of products containing hawthorn should be stopped 2 weeks in advance of a surgery. Products containing hawthorn should be used with caution when taking beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, nitrates, or digoxin.

Ginkgo biloba leaf extract is also present at 200mg per serving of VigRX Plus. Ginkgo biloba is an ancient tree that the Chinese have cultivated and held sacred for its health-promoting properties for over two millennia.

In recent decades, concentrated extracts from Ginkgo biloba leaves (GBE) have been sold in Western countries as herbal medicines for treating peripheral vascular disease and for enhancing cerebral blood flow.

Indeed, a number of clinical trials have shown that Ginkgo biloba is effective in treating a wide range of problems associated with impaired circulation, including hearing problems, visual disturbances, edema, varicose veins, leg ulcers, stroke, as well as symptoms of cerebrovascular insufficiency, such as difficulties of concentration and memory, confusion, lack of energy, depressed mood, dizziness, and tinnitus.

It is best recognized as a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and fatigue, although clinical evidence to support this claim is limited.

Ginkgo’s health benefits are thought to come from its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginkgo biloba facilitates blood flow, influences nitric oxide systems, and has a relaxant effect on smooth muscle tissue.

Ginkgo biloba has been shown to be effective in alleviating symptoms of sexual dysfunction secondary to anti-depressant treatment. In this study Ginkgo biloba had a positive effect on all 4 phases of the sexual response cycle: desire, excitement (erection and lubrication), orgasm, and resolution.

Given Ginkgo biloba’s ability to facilitate peripheral blood flow to various bodily regions, it is reasonable to speculate that it might also be effective in facilitating blood flow to the genital region, thus enhancing sexual arousal. Other than improving vascular flow to the genital region, Ginkgo biloba is also believed to directly affect prostaglandins which are known to enhance sexual arousal in men.

Ginkgo biloba has also been suggested to increase nitric oxide bioavailability, which may have a positive impact on sexual function. Dosages of Ginkgo biloba range from 60mg to 120mg twice daily which is similar to the recommended VigRX Plus dosage.

The common side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, and dizziness. Ginkgo biloba can adversely interact with simultaneously administered ibuprofen, warfarin, or other anti-coagulant drugs and therefore caution should be exercised in such instances. People with diabetes and those scheduled to undergo surgery should use Ginkgo biloba containing products with caution.

The next component in VigRX Plus is the extract of Turnera diffusa leaves at 200mg per serving. T. diffusa, also known as “damiana,” is a small shrub common in Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.

Damiana leaf is traditionally thought to be a stimulant, aphrodisiac, tonic, diuretic, laxative, and useful to treat menstrual and pregnancy disorders. Aphrodisiac and psychoactive properties have been ascribed for centuries to Damiana.

Its leaves are usually boiled to make an infusion with the aim of intensifying sexual sensations. Concrete studies in human males are lacking, however, animal studies show promise. Sexually sluggish male rats treated with Damiana improved performance on the standard sexual parameters; they also exhibited reductions in the latencies to the onset of sexual response and to ejaculation.

Damiana’s potential for steroid-receptor binding may account for its purported effect on libido. The leaf extract also has potent antioxidant potential leading to free radical scavenging. Although, generally considered safe, Damiana consumption can lead to headache and insomnia in some users.

People with diabetes and those scheduled to undergo surgery should use Damiana containing products with caution. Taking Damiana containing products along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to go too low and hence requires close monitoring.

VigRX Plus also contains the extract of the Tribulus terrestris vine at 150mg per serving of the product. Tribulus Terrestris, commonly known as puncture vine, has been used for a long time in both the Indian and Chinese systems of medicine for treatment of various kinds of diseases.

Its various parts contain a variety of chemical constituents which are medicinally important, such as flavonoids, flavonol glycosides, steroidal saponins, and alkaloids.

It has diuretic, aphrodisiac, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, absorption enhancing, hypolipidemic, cardiotonic, central nervous system, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, anticancer, antibacterial, anthelmintic, larvicidal, and anticariogenic activities.

Its use has been shown to have a pro-erectile benefit through release of nitric oxide in animal studies. In sexually sluggish animals it proved to be a sexual enhancer and increased serum testosterone levels.

Increase in serum testosterone levels in human males was however
observed when Tribulus Terrestris was part of a combined supplement administration. The antioxidant properties of Tribulus Terrestris are also believed to contribute to its aphrodisiac potential.

It is suggested that some Tribulus Terrestris saponins work by increasing the conversion of testosterone into the potent dehydrotestosterone, which stimulates not only increase in the sex drive but also the production of red cells from the bone marrow along with muscular developments contributing to improvement of blood circulation and the oxygen transport systems, leading to optimal health.

Early research also shows that taking Tribulus can improve sexual satisfaction in men with erectile dysfunction. The dose of this herb typically used in research has been 500mg three times daily for 3 months.

Anti-diabetic drugs and lithium may interact adversely with Tribulus Terrestris. Tribulus has been used safely in research studies lasting up to 90 days. Side effects are usually mild and uncommon but might include stomach pain, cramping, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, excitation, difficulty sleeping.

Yet another component in VigRX Plus is Erythroxylum catuaba present at 100mg per serving. Catuaba, derived from barks of large rainforest trees, was a popular remedy for erectile dysfunction in Brazil in the mid-nineteenth century.

It is still used there as an analgesic, central nervous system
stimulant, tonic and aphrodisiac, mainly by preparing hot infusions to drink. There is significant confusion around the exact species that is sought to furnish Catuaba.

Although, the VigRX Plus formula lists the source as Erythroxylum catuaba, the identification of this species is doubtful as no type specimen exists for comparison.

Such heterogeneity leads undoubtedly to difficulties regarding the identification of the traded bark. Consequently, information on the medicinal effects of the drug is unreliable if the plant source is not clearly defined.

Depending on the type of tree selected from the Brazilian rainforest, formulation characteristics will vary. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Catuaba.

Due to a lack of quality research, little is known about the safety of Catuaba in any form. However, Catuaba has been known to trigger side effects in some, including headaches, dizziness, and excessive sweating.

Although Catuaba is believed to be a CNS stimulant and useful in conditions of lowered libido, concrete studies to support these claims are lacking given the confusion around the tree source of this bark preparation. Limited studies which exist do not refer to Erythroxylum catuaba and therefore are not cited here.

VigRX Plus also contains Ptychopetalum olacoides, at 100mg per serving. Although used in Asia, P. olacoides, commonly known as muira puama, is actually the best known Amazonian folk medicine which increases libido and penile hardness.

The roots and bark of the plant are used in different preparations. The VigRX Plus formula uses a bark extract of this plant. It acts as a nerve stimulant to heighten receptiveness to sexual stimuli as well as physical sensation of sex.

Rich in sterols e.g., sitosterol, campesterol and lupol, it activates the body’s receptors for hormones like testosterone to heighten libido and enhance performance. Also present are volatile oils which help restore sex drive and inner depth of libido and mental ability to be
aroused.

Clinical studies have shown muira puama to be effective in improving libido and treating erectile dysfunction.

Muira puama extracts have also been reported to have adaptogenic, anti-fatigue, anti-stress, and have beneficial effects on the central nervous system. Traditionally the roots and stem of this plant have been used to treat neuromuscular disorders, such as paralysis, too.

Information on common side effects and interactions with other drugs is not available at this time. Enough scientific information to determine a safe and effective dose is also not available.

Another component in VigRX Plus is Cuscuta chinensis seed extract at 50mg per serving. This plant is commonly used in traditional medicine as a tonic and aphrodisiac in China and other Asian countries.

It is often used as a functional food by adding to alcoholic beverages or porridge to improve sexual potency and vision, and prevent abortion.

Several beneficial flavonoids, polysaccharides, alkaloids, steroids, volatile oils, lignans are reported. Several studies have shown this extract to have hepatoprotective, renoprotective, skin protective and
anti-aging benefits in animals and humans.

The Cuscuta seed extract has been shown to cause relaxation of penile tissue and activate the nitric oxide pathway thereby improving symptoms of ED in animal studies. Improvement in sperm motility has also been attributed to this extract.

Very recently C. chinensis flavonoids have been shown to alleviate the adverse effects of the common plastic contaminant BPA on mouse testicular development. Both in vitro and in vivo studies of Cuscuta extracts show potential improved effects in both male and
female reproductive system including improved fertility.

Oral consumption of Cuscuta is generally regarded as safe and highly uncommon side effects may include stomach upset and diarrhea. Not enough scientific information on drug interactions and safe dose for Cuscuta exists.

VigRX Plus also contains Epimedium sagittatum leaf extract at 30mg per serving. Commonly known as horny goat weed, this is an herb that has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is used for treating low libido, ED, fatigue, pain, and other conditions.

Lab studies have shown that a compound (icariin) present in this herb blocks the effects of the PDE5 enzyme that restricts blood flow to the penis. This activity is similar to that of other clinically used drugs for ED.

In addition to an erectogenic role, it has been suggested that icariin has testosterone-mimetic properties. These effects lend credence to the use of horny goat weed for the management of sexual problems.

Early research suggests that it may have properties that can keep bones strong, protect the nerves, and support the immune system. At this time, there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for horny goat weed.

Products containing this herb should be used with caution if the user is taking anti-hypertensive or anti-coagulant medication.

Safety of the horny goat weed extract has been demonstrated following oral consumption up to a six-month period. Long-term use of horny goat weed might cause dizziness, vomiting, dry mouth, thirst, and nosebleed.

VigRX Plus also contains Bioperine at 10mg per serving as an absorption enhancer. Bioperine is a patented extract obtained from black pepper fruits standardized to deliver 95% piperine.

It is reputed to increase the body’s ability to absorb active ingredients; stimulate cellular energy, and improve blood flow and stamina. It can increase the bioavailability of other ingredients, it is combined with, by up to 30%.

It has been assigned a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status after a comprehensive review of safety and toxicology data. The suggested oral dose for Bioperine is 5mg used 3 times daily which is slightly higher than the amount present in every serving of VigRX Plus.

It may also have immune-suppressing, tumor-inhibiting and  antidepressant effects. One potential adverse effect of piperine is that it may enhance the absorption of medicines, bringing them to dangerous levels in the blood stream and co-administering it with certain medicines should be done with caution. Rare side effects of Bioperine, if any, are skin rashes, decreased appetite, and irritability.

The first constituent in VigRX Plus is the root extract of Panax ginseng or Korean red ginseng at 200mg per serving of 2 tablets of the product.

Korean Red Ginseng is considered a potent antioxidant and immunity booster. Ginseng has also been reputed as an aphrodisiac, and is used to treat sexual dysfunction as well as to enhance sexual behaviour in traditional Chinese medical practices.

Data from animal studies have shown a positive correlation among ginseng, libido, and copulatory performances, and these effects have been confirmed in case-control studies in human.

Clinical study reports conclude that this herb can be an effective treatment for ED. In addition, ginseng is found to improve the sperm quality and count of healthy individuals as well as patients with treatment-related infertility.

These actions are mostly attributed to ginsenosides, the major pharmacological active components of ginseng. Researchers have concluded that red ginseng may be an effective alternative treatment for impotence.

Ginseng can help prevent colds and lessen the severity of heart disease symptoms. It may also be effective in increasing alertness, decreasing stress, and improving endurance.

Insomnia is the most common side effect of Korean ginseng. Less common effects include headache, agitation, upset stomach, and dizziness. Drugs such as corticosteroids and blood thinners should be used with caution while consuming products containing Korean ginseng.

Panax Ginseng tends to be taken in doses of 200 to 400mg daily although, no optimal dose of Korean ginseng is mentioned in the scientific literature.

Among the herbal constituents of VigRX Plus, only Korean red ginseng has been previously evaluated on the IIEF scale, in two double-blind, randomized, controlled studies. Overall, 60% of the patients answered that Korean red ginseng improved erection – numbers similar to the results obtained from the VigRX Plus clinical study.