I’ve recently had a medical involving the usual tests, and am a-ok. (I’m a 50 yr old male)
However, I’m now considering taking either ‘Vigrx Plus’, or ‘Horny Goat Weed’ (for obvious reasons!), but wonder if I should seek my GP’s advice before proceeding, even though both only contain herbal ingredients.
Any advice much appreciated.
Answer:
ABSOLUTELY YES. Your doctors (and perhaps more importantly, your PHARMACIST) should be aware of every medication you’re taking. That includes herbal medicines, vitamins and minerals!! Natural does NOT mean harmless.
That said, unfortunately GPs and pharmacists receive little to no training on herbal or orthomolecular medicine, so they are frequently ill equipped to answer questions about “natural health products.” They can look ‘em up, though. 
And some do!
Note to Dave: Many of the products on the market to stimulate libido are actually quite effective. Horny goat weed is among them! And yes, there’s clinical, anecdotal and scientific (published RCTs) evidence to back that up.
It always says on the box (or at least it usually does) that you should consult your doctor.
Chances are it will be fine, but if you are concerned, make an appointment and discuss.
It’s probably unnecessary but wise to hedge your bets by having a quick word.
Absolutely. So called herbal ‘remedies’ can have many (sometimes quite dangerous) reactions and 35% of all acute kidney failure in Africa is due to herbal ‘remedies’.
You sound an intelligent enough prerson, so it’s a bit surprising that you’re being sucked in by these scam products. Certainly neither of them do the things claimed for them and they’re just another of the many products out there that are duping the consumer at the moment.
A resounding yes to this one.
yes i would consult your doctor if i was you especially if you are taking any other medication. it might have a reaction
ABSOLUTELY YES. Your doctors (and perhaps more importantly, your PHARMACIST) should be aware of every medication you’re taking. That includes herbal medicines, vitamins and minerals!! Natural does NOT mean harmless.
That said, unfortunately GPs and pharmacists receive little to no training on herbal or orthomolecular medicine, so they are frequently ill equipped to answer questions about “natural health products.” They can look ‘em up, though.
And some do!
Note to Dave: Many of the products on the market to stimulate libido are actually quite effective. Horny goat weed is among them! And yes, there’s clinical, anecdotal and scientific (published RCTs) evidence to back that up.
if your medical doctor happens to know about herbs (chances are he does not) by all means ask him.
be really careful of combined products such as the one you mention. many of these preparations have been found to contain drugs sold by Rx only Ie; viagra. stick with the unmixed herbs. the one you mention is good according to the literature. and side effects are unlikely
Yes, especially in view of your age. And if you have any ongoing medical problem and/or are on any medication you should always do so anyway. Some herbs [and supplements] interact with some drugs. Some medical conditions may preclude the use of some herbal preparations. Be safe.