A number of herbs have been promoted for treating erectile dysfunction. The most widely touted is yohimbe (Corynanthe yohimbe), derived from the bark of the yohimbe tree native to West Africa. It has been used in Europe for about 75 years to treat ED. The FDA approved yohimbe as a treatment for ED in the late 1980s. It is sold as an over-the-counter dietary supplement and as a prescription drug under brand names such as Yocon, Aphrodyne, Erex, Yohimex, Testomar, Yohimbe, and Yovital.

There is no clear medical research that indicates exactly how or why yohimbe works in treating ED. It is generally believed that yohimbe dilates blood vessels and stimulates blood flow to the penis, causing an erection. It also prevents blood from flowing out of the penis during an erection. It may also act on the central nervous system, specifically the lower spinal cord area where sexual signals are transmitted. Studies show it is effective to some degree in 30–40% of men with ED. It is primarily effective in men with ED caused by vascular, psychogenic (originating in the mind), or diabetic problems. It usually does not work in men whose dysfunction is caused by organic nerve damage. In healthy men without ED, yohimbe in some cases appears to increase sexual stamina and prolong erections. The usual dosage of yohimbine (yohimbe extract) to treat ED is 5.4 mg three times a day. It may take three to six weeks for it to take effect.

Ginkgo Ginkgo biloba, is also used to treat erectile dysfunction, although it has not been shown to help the condition in controlled studies, and probably has more of a psychological effect. In addition, ginkgo carries some risk of abnormal blood clotting and should be avoided by men taking blood thinners, such as coumadin. Other herbs promoted for treating ED include true unicorn root Aletrius farinosa, saw palmetto Serenoa repens, ginseng Panax ginseng, and Siberian ginseng Eleuthrococcus senticosus. Nux vomica Strychnos nux-vomica has been recommended, especially when ED is caused by excessive alcohol, cigarettes, or dietary indiscretions. Nux vomica can be very toxic if taken improperly, so it should be used only under the strict supervision of a physician trained in its use.

There are quite a few Chinese herbal remedies for erectile dysfunction usually combinations of herbs and sometimes animal parts such as deer antler and sea horse. Acupuncture is also used to treat ED, although Western doctors question its effectiveness.