Despite the fact that there are seemingly dozens of various cures now available to counteract male impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction, this embarrassing condition may not require special medications or herbal treatments to cure. Depending on the cause of the problem, it is possible that modifications to a man's lifestyle may be all that is needed to solve his erectile dysfunction problem.

Of course, there may be many different factors, both physical and psychological that may be at the root of an impotence condition, but studies have shown that a large number of cases are caused by factors that may be treated quite simply. That is because three of the leading causes of erectile dysfunction are tobacco, alcohol and prescription drugs.

One of the effects that tobacco smoking has on the human body is to reduce the ability of the vascular system (blood vessels) to circulate blood throughout the body. Because male potency requires a good supply of blood to a man's sex organ, smoking may be a contributing factor of impotence. If that is the case, then quitting smoking is likely to solve the problem.

The reason why alcohol can contribute to erectile dysfunction is because prolonged drinking can lead to the lowering of a man's testosterone level. Without a sufficiently high quantity of this important male hormone in his system, a lowering of libido and sexual stamina may result. Once again, the symptoms could be alleviated by a lifestyle alteration in the form of a change in his drinking habits.

Prescription drugs may also be a factor that causes impotence, especially if a man is taking certain medications for conditions such as high blood pressure, heart conditions or depression. If a man falls into any one of those categories, a discussion with his doctor about adjusting his prescriptions may be all that is needed to solve his impotence problem.

Even if a man does not smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol excessively or take problematic prescription drugs, a poor diet, sedentary habits or other unhealthy lifestyle conditions could be triggering his impotence. For overall good health, especially for a man who is approaching middle age or older, it is important to take a good vitamin supplement on a daily basis and get at least thirty minutes of exercise at least three times per week. To do so will help combat not only erectile dysfunction but also any number of potential health risks.

It is only after all of the above factors have been ruled out that a man may find he could benefit by taking either herbal or medicinal based products to cure his erectile dysfunction.