Does Yohimbe Actually Make Your Penis Bigger? Uncertain Benefits and Risks

Examining the Effectiveness and Safety of Using Yohimbe for Penis Enlargement

Yohimbe is a herbal supplement often claimed to increase penis size if used properly. However, there are risks and uncertainties regarding the use of yohimbe for male enhancement. Understanding how yohimbe works, its possible benefits, side effects, and safer alternatives is important for making an informed decision before use.

What is Yohimbe?

Yohimbe is derived from the bark of the Pausinystalia yohimbe tree in Central Africa. It contains an active ingredient called yohimbine, an alph-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist that acts as a stimulant. Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, yohimbe has been suggested to enhance sexual performance and treat erectile dysfunction.

How Yohimbe Might Increase Penis Size

Proponents claim that yohimbe can increase penis size in two ways:

• Improving erection strength by blocking receptors that inhibit erections.
• Dilating blood vessels to increase blood flow to the penis.

This boosted blood flow to the erectile tissues is proposed to nurture penile growth over time. However, current research does not definitively support yohimbine for significant penis enlargement.

Research on Yohimbe for Male Enhancement

Most evidence on yohimbe for penile growth is anecdotal. Here are some key scientific research findings:

• One study in rats found increased penile tissue density after 6 weeks of yohimbine treatment.
• A research review found yohimbine positively impacted sexual function in some studies of men with erectile dysfunction.
• However, multiple human trials found yohimbine was no better than placebo for treating erectile dysfunction.
• No studies have conclusively shown yohimbe to permanently increase penis size in humans.

More rigorous, large-scale human studies are needed to demonstrate a clear link between yohimbe supplements and measurable penile enlargement or erectile function improvement.

Potential Benefits of Yohimbe

While not proven, some possible benefits of yohimbe for male sexual health may include:

• Increasing blood flow to the genitals
• Enhancing sexual arousal
• Helping those with anxiety-related erectile dysfunction
• Mildly improving erection firmness
• Providing a stimulative effect like caffeine

However, these benefits tend to be modest, temporary, and unreliable for many men. More dependable options exist for increasing blood flow or treating anxiety-based erectile issues.

Risks and Side Effects

Yohimbe does carry potential side effects and safety risks such as:

• Increasing heart rate and blood pressure
• Causing dizziness, headache, nausea, jitters or insomnia
• Exacerbating anxiety, mood disorders, and psychosis
• Interacting dangerously with anti-depressants and stimulants
• Leading to allergic reactions in some people
• Overdosing resulting in respiratory failure or even death

Yohimbe should not be taken by those with heart, kidney, or liver disease. Use with caution at low doses under medical supervision.

Dosage Recommendations

Suggested dosing guidelines for yohimbe are:

• Daily limit: 30 mg of yohimbine alkaloid
• Start with a half or quarter tablet to assess tolerance
• Take early in day to prevent sleep disruption
• Never exceed recommended dosage on product labels
• Do not mix with other stimulants or erectile dysfunction drugs

Due to significant safety concerns, yohimbe is banned in many countries and certain states in the USA. Consult a doctor before considering use.

Safer Alternatives to Yohimbe

For male enhancement or sexual wellness, some safer alternatives to yohimbe may include:

• L-arginine supplements to support nitric oxide production and blood flow
• Zinc and folic acid supplements to prevent erectile dysfunction
• Managing anxiety through cognitive behavioral therapy techniques
• Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen penile muscles
• Devices like penis pumps and stretchers to enhance size modestly

While not as fast-acting as yohimbe, these options can improve sexual health without significant risks of side effects.

The Bottom Line

There is insufficient evidence that yohimbe meaningfully or permanently increases penis size. Any erectile benefits appear small and unreliable for many men. Given the risks of side effects like anxiety, high blood pressure, and arrhythmia, other options for male enhancement seem preferable. Under medical guidance, certain men may find yohimbe modestly helpful alongside other lifestyle changes. But for most men, safer, proven alternatives exist.

Key Takeaways

• Yohimbe has unproven potential benefits for penis enlargement or erectile dysfunction.
• Studies have not shown clear links between yohimbe and permanent penile growth.
• Yohimbe does carry side effects like jitters, nausea, increased heart rate and blood pressure.
• Dosage guidelines must be carefully followed to avoid adverse reactions.
• For male enhancement, safer options like L-arginine, zinc and pelvic exercises exist.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.