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Expert issues urgent warning after dangerous DIY 'penis remedy' goes viral
A surge in risky home remedies for erectile dysfunction is putting men’s health at risk, experts warn, after viral trends promoting apple cider vinegar and baking soda exploded online.
It’s estimated that 4.3 million men in the UK suffer from erectile dysfunction, but a reluctance to talk to doctors is pushing many to seek questionable advice from social media and Google. The condition, often caused by issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, alcohol use or nerve damage, can also stem from stress or cancer treatments.
While prescription medication like Viagra is a proven treatment, doctors also recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, losing weight, eating better and managing stress. But not everyone is following expert advice.
Searches for unproven ‘cures’ have skyrocketed
According to MedExpress, online searches for “natural remedies” for erectile dysfunction have jumped by a massive 5,000 percent in the past month. Among the top DIY tips? Drinking diluted apple cider vinegar or mixing baking soda with water.
Some online sources claim these pantry staples can boost blood flow and improve erections by balancing pH levels or tackling heart disease and obesity. However, medical experts say these claims don’t hold water.
Dr Zoë Lees, PhD in Metabolic Medicine and Medical Writer for MedExpress, has spoken out about the potential dangers. She said: “There is no evidence indicating any benefit on sexual health. Therefore, while consuming small amounts of diluted apple cider vinegar is generally considered safe, it is not a medical treatment for erectile dysfunction.”
She added: “[When it comes to ED] it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Doctors are trained to provide the most tailored support and treatment in a respectful and judgment-free environment to support overall well-being.”
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Why ditching bad habits matters more than vinegar shots
While many are too embarrassed to seek help, relying on unproven internet trends can backfire badly. The 2024 Safe Sex Report from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor found that 43 percent of Brits feel stigma around talking about issues like ED, low libido and performance anxiety.
“Ultimately, erectile dysfunction is a very common condition that affects many men, especially as they age. It is treatable with a wide range of evidence-based options available including lifestyle changes and prescription medication,” said Dr Lees.
She also warned about diet and alcohol. “Alcohol is a depressant that slows communication between the brain and the penis, which can impair the mechanisms necessary for an erection,” she explained.
“Consuming high amounts of saturated fat, sugar, and processed foods can impair blood flow and contribute to obesity, both major risk factors for heart conditions and erectile dysfunction.”
Smoking is another major culprit. Research shows men who smoke are twice as likely to experience ED. The good news? A quarter of men reported improvement within a year of quitting.
Following a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish may also help reduce the risk of ED by supporting better heart health.