Goji extracts may have a positive effect to improve erectile function in an old-aged rat model. - GreenMedInfo Summary
Administration of Goji (Lycium chinense Mill.) Extracts Improves Erectile Function in Old Aged Rat Model.
World J Mens Health. 2016 Dec 22. Epub 2016 Dec 22. PMID: 28064475
Hyong Woo Moon
PURPOSE: This study investigated the effect of goji (Lycium chinense Mill.) on erectile dysfunction in old-aged rats.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four 18-month-old male Sprague-Dawley rats (defined as old-aged rats) were used. Treatment groups contained eight rats each: a control group, goji extract of 150 mg/kg/day group, and goji extract of 300 mg/kg/day group. Treatment was by orogastric tube once daily for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks of treatment, testes weight, serum testosterone, superoxide dismutase, nitric oxide (NO)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-related parameters, intracavernous pressure/mean arterial pressure, and histological changes were examined.
RESULTS: Treatments with goji extracts increased serum testosterone level, increased the expression of endothelial NO synthase, neuronal NO synthase, and cGMP, improved the oxidative stress marker, and decreased corporal fibrosis.
CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that goji extract may have a positive effect on erectile dysfunction via its antioxidant effects.