Background
Sexual health positively correlates with
overall wellbeing. Existing therapeutics to enhance male sexual health
are limited by factors that include responsiveness, adherence and
adverse effects. As the population ages, safe and effective
interventions that preserve male sexual function are needed. Published
research suggests that various preparations of Kaempferia parviflora, a plant in the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family, support cardiovascular health and may ameliorate erectile function.
Objective
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of KaempMaxTM, an ethanol extract of the K. parviflora rhizome, on erectile function in healthy middle-aged and older men.
Design, setting, participants and interventions
We conducted an open-label, one-arm study on 14 generally healthy males
aged 50–68?years with self-reported mild erectile dysfunction, who were
not using prescription treatments. Participants took 100?mg KaempMaxTM daily for 30?days.
Main outcome measures
Evaluations were conducted at baseline and on the final study
assessment. Primary efficacy analyses included the International Index
of Erectile Function (IIEF); secondary efficacy analyses included the
Global Assessment Question about erectile function.
Results
Thirteen participants completed the 30-day study. Supplementation with
KaempMaxTM resulted in statistically significant improvements in erectile
function, intercourse satisfaction and total scores on the IIEF
questionnaire. KaempMaxTM was well tolerated and exhibited an excellent
safety profile.
Conclusion
Our results suggest that KaempMaxTM may improve erectile function in
healthy middle-aged and older men. While the effects were not as
pronounced as what might be seen with prescription medication, most
participants found them satisfactory. Additional, longer and
placebo-controlled clinical trials will be needed.
Trial registration
Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT03389867.
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