Watermelon may help overcome impotence
Texas researchers say watermelon may help overcome impotence, following a comparison of ingredients in watermelon, to the drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction and generally increase libido.
The research team, from Texas A&M University, said they found the ingredients that make up watermelon into a tasty, balloon shaped fruit, to also deliver Viagra-like effects to the body’s blood vessels.
“The more we study watermelons, the more we realise just what an amazing fruit it is, in providing natural enhancers to the human body,” said Dr Bhimu Patil, director of Texas A&M’s Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Center, in College Station.
Scientists know that when watermelon is consumed, citrulline is converted to arginine through certain enzymes.
Arginine is an amino acid that works wonders on the heart and circulation system and maintains a good immune system, Dr Patil said.
“The citrulline-arginine relationship helps heart health and the immune system, and may prove to be very helpful for those who suffer from obesity and type 2 diabetes,” said Dr Patil.
“Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction, and maybe even prevent it.”
While erectile dysfunction can stem from a number of psychological or physiological problems, extra nitric oxide could help those who need increased blood flow, which would also help treat angina, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
“Watermelon may not be as organ specific as Viagra,” Dr Patil said, “but it is a great way to relax blood vessels without any drug side effects.”
