Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
MALE enhancement pills have become increasingly popular among men seeking to boost potency and sexual desire.
Yet, while their use is widespread, little attention is given to the potential dangers they pose. Reports continue to surface of men collapsing or even dying during intimacy after abusing the enhancers or consuming unprescribed varieties.
Despite such alarming cases, the trade in sex enhancement pills and traditional herbal concoctions remains brisk, particularly on the black market, where regulation is virtually non-existent.
Side effects—ranging from cardiovascular complications to dangerous drug interactions—should never be ignored.
Tragically, there have been increasing incidents of deaths linked to complications triggered by these enhancers.
These cases highlight the urgent need for awareness, regulation, and safer approaches to sexual health.
Traditional leader and health professional, Headman Talkmore Mupambawahle, cautioned against the abuse of the pills or herbs acquired from non-professionals.
“Across many cultures, men have used traditional herbs and natural remedies to boost sexual energy, improve stamina, treat erectile difficulties long before modern pills existed. These remedies are usually plant-based and aim to improve blood flow, increase libido or enhance overall vitality.
“The herbal remedies-whether African roots like Yohimbe and Mukombero and others from Asia and European boosters can be powerful. They work by stimulating blood flow, increasing nerve activity, or boosting energy and hormone balance.
“However, anything strong enough to change the body’s function can also produce side effects, especially when taken in large amounts, mixed with alcohol or combined with prescription drugs,” he said.
Headman Mupambawahle said due to misuse and wrong application, the enhancers can permanently damage manhood, harm key body parts such as the heart, liver and kidneys.
“Where things go out of hand, the bigger the risks. These are also less common but they require urgent medical attention. These include chest pain, irregular heartbeat and severe drops in blood pressure. One of the most dangerous complications is priapism, an erection lasting longer than four hours, which can permanently damage the male organ if not treated quickly.
“Another issue many men don’t think about is misuse. Some take these pills recreationally, others buy cheap ‘herbal’ versions from vendors or online. These unregulated pills often contain unknown or hidden chemicals that can harm the heart, liver and kidneys. Over time, constant reliance can reduce natural sexual confidence and performance. If one has heart problems, very low blood pressure, severe kidney or liver issues or takes nitrate medications, sex-enhancement pills can be dangerous – sometimes life-threatening. It is always safer to talk to health professionals before using them,” said Headman Mupambawahle.
Medical practitioner, Dr Stewart Karembo said male stimulants pose more risk to elderly men, and advised that they should be ordered only from licensed entities and professionals.
“When it comes to sex stimulants such as tadalafil, elderly folks need to be cautious. These medicines can cause some serious side effects, especially if they have pre-existing health issues. There is need to consult health practitioners before taking them,” he said.
Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (Zinatha) president, Mr George Kandiero said the safest way is to buy traditional medicine from registered practitioners who are, not driven by profit motive, but desire to offer solutions.
“Traditional medicines must only be procured from registered traditional healers. If one buys from unregistered persons on the streets, they will not have anywhere to raise the complaint. Some people have other medical challenges which affect them in bed, such as low libido, low sperm count, diabetes, and these require experts to explain before issuing herbs,” he said.
