When it comes to impotency, there are several prescription drugs available, such as Viagra. However, there are also several natural alternatives that you may not know about. Androstenedione (pronounced andro-steen-dye-own) is one such alternative.

Androstenedione is a natural steroid hormone found in all animals (meat) as well as in some plants (extracts). It is a metabolite of DHEA that serves as a direct precursor (one step removed) in the biosynthesis of testosterone. In mammals, androstenedione is produced in the gonads and adrenal glands. Androstenedione is metabolized in the liver with a zinc dependent enzyme.

When taken orally, androstenedione will increase blood levels of both androstenedione and testosterone. Secondary to this increase, effects are often seen such as increased energy, enhanced recovery and growth from exercise, heightened sexual arousal and function, as well as a greater sense of well being.

Androstenedione can thus be the perfect alternative for:

• Lack of sexual desire
• Feeling tired and "old"
• Impotency
• Poor circulation and fatigue
• Poor muscle tone

There are two forms of androstenedione, either as a pill or as a sublingual (under the tongue) spray.

The pill form of androstenedione is usually mixed with yohimbe. It takes two to three pills per day for two weeks before it becomes readily effective, as the digestive tract destroys androstenedione. Prolonged usage of the pill form of yohimbe and adrostenedione together stress the liver. The liver can become so stressed, in fact, that regular liver flushes are needed. In addition, the herb yohimbe can cause rapid heartbeat. The pill form is made from a bovine source (normally from bull urine) because it is cheaper to manufacture.

The best all-natural herbal sublingual form of adrostenedione does not come with yohimbe and is made only from tree extracts. The effects are nearly immediate because it goes directly into the blood stream. This form of androstenedione usually takes about 15 minutes to work, depending on circulation, and is gone within three to four hours, so there is no stress on the heart or liver.

Impotency can be emotionally draining. The National Institute of Health notes that approximately 30% of men may experience an impotency problem. Try a safe, alternative method; it may be just what you are looking for!

Barb Schofield researches alternative products. She has cured her "incurable" skin disease (Acne Rosacea) and has helped others with their ailments. For more information on plant-based androstenedione, call Natural Health and Fitness at 868-4817.