Herbal ‘Viagra’? I somehow doubt it and advise caution

A standardized, synergistic combination of Punica granatum fruit rind and Theobroma cacao seed extracts (Pomegranate-cocoa extract LN18178) has been reported to increase serum testosterone levels in young and aging males.

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the efficacy of LN18178 on the sexual function of aging male volunteers (age: 40-70 years; serum total testosterone: ≥ 300 ng/dL). The subjects with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction [5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) scores 17-25] and low sexual desire (score < 3 on items 11 and 12 of IIEF) participated in this investigation. 120 men were randomly allocated into either the LN18178 or placebo group; they took either a 400 mg of LN18178 or a matched placebo capsule daily with breakfast for 84 days.

Post-trial, the LN18178-supplemented participants reported significant (P < 0.05) improvements in total and domain scores of the Derogatis Interview for Sexual Functioning-Self Reporting Male (DISF-SR-M) questionnaire, as well as substantial improvements in IIEF-5 (International Index of Erectile Function-5) and erection hardness scores (EHS). Comparative analysis also revealed significant improvements in the multi-dimensional fatigue inventory (MFI) and general health survey (GHS) scores. LN18178 supplementation substantially (P < 0.05) increased the six-minute walk distance and hand-grip strength compared to placebo. The participants’ hemato-biochemical parameters, urinalysis, and vitals were within the normal range.

The authors concluded that LN18178 enhances sexual function, libido and improves psychological well-being, as well as neuromotor function and general well-being in aging males. LN18178 supplementation is safe and well tolerated by the participants.

This reads as though we have here a herbal Viagra!

Yet, I don’t quite buy it.

The more I studied the paper, the stronger became the whiff of ‘too good to be true’. My suspicion was not reduced when I found a similar study of the same herbal mixture concluding: LN18178 supplementation reduced AMS scores and improved sexual performance. Also, LN18178 groups exhibited superior muscular strength and reduction in perceived stress. Next I came across another trial; it concluded  that LN18178 is a safe and tolerable herbal blend; it increases testosterone level and increases muscle strength and MUAC in young, healthy males.

These studies all had the same whiff about them; they were seemingly well-done but somehow they did not ring true.

Then I saw that all of these trials are sponsored:

The authors thank Laila Nutraceuticals, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India, for providing the financial support to conduct the research.

And finally, I realized that the mixture is heavily markeded as an expensive dietary supplement!

Pehaps I am unduely suspicious but I do feel that caution is indicated.

So, before I recommend anyone to buy the supplement, I advise to wait until we have an independent replication.