Can Apple Cider Vinegar Cure Erectile Dysfunction?

Manoj Kumar - B.Pharmacy

Published : Feb 04, 2024

Last Updated : Mar 05, 2025

No, apple cider vinegar cannot cure erectile dysfunction (ED).

While it may support overall health by improving blood sugar or cholesterol levels.

Also, there’s no scientific evidence that apple cider vinegar directly treats or reverses ED.

Many natural remedies, like apple cider vinegar, are popular online for managing ED, but do they work?

In this blog, we’ll explore the claims, what science says about apple cider vinegar and its effects on sexual health.

Also, I'd like you to explore which proven treatments you should consider for treating ED.

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is a Vinegar made from apples fermented with sugar and yeast.

People often use it in pickles, salad dressings, marinades, kombucha mixtures, or as a beverage.

It includes many beneficial compounds that it gains from the fermentation process.

One of its properties, acetic acid, provides apple cider Vinegar with health benefits.

This is why apple cider vinegar has been a home remedy for many common health issues for years.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar a proven ED remedy?

Currently, no studies claim Apple cider vinegar directly improves the symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction or male impotence.

Also, it is essential to note that Ed can have many causes that can make it difficult to know precisely how apple cider vinegar may help.

Some reasons that can lead to Ed include-

• Heart-related diseases
• Emotional distress(Depression, stress and anxiety)
• Relationship issues
• Smoking 
• Substance abuse
• Physical injuries to the penis
• Diabetes
• Cancer and its treatment side effects
• Obesity 

However, some researchers have investigated the potential health benefits of apple cider vinegar in humans and animals for health conditions like-

• Weight management
• Heart disease prevention
• Blood glucose control

The thought that apple cider vinegar may help treat ED comes from the fact that it may help in some of its causes.

Thus, treating these causes may help reduce the risk factors of Erectile dysfunction(ED).

How can Apple cider vinegar indirectly help with ED?

The idea that apple cider vinegar can treat erectile dysfunction may come from the fact that it helps treat some causes and risk factors for ED.

The reasons why it may benefit include-

Type 2 diabetes- 

Men who face type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop impotence.

A review published in 2020 of 6 studies shows that 317 participants could lower their blood sugar levels with apple cider Vinegar—these participants had type 2 diabetes. 

Overweight- 

Being overweight can be a risk factor for Erectile dysfunction in men. In a 2018 study, researchers found that people who consumed two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar daily for 12 weeks lost more body fat than those who didn't. 

Heart disease-

Heart disease is also among the common risk factors for ED in men. Suppose we see no human studies that claim that apple cider vinegar may reduce heart disease risks.

However, a study published in 2018 on rats suggests that it can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

And for your information, both conditions are well linked to heart disease. 

Cholesterol- 

In 2014, researchers reviewed studies and found that apple cider vinegar may help stop LDL cholesterol oxidation.

It may prevent heart disease caused by high cholesterol. 

However, apple cider vinegar has not been proven to treat any disease and is not recommended.

It should not replace exercise and diet for weight loss, but be used as a substitute.

However, it needs more research to understand how Apple cider vinegar relates to ED and other sexual health conditions.

How Should Apple Cider Vinegar Be Used If Trying for ED Relief?

You can add Apple cider vinegar to many recipes or as a daily supplement.

Here are some ways that you can consume it-

Plain supplement: Take 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar orally by mouth daily.

It is the usual dose used in some human medical studies, but ensure you do not consume too much of it, as it can harm you. 

Mix it in marinades: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons to a meat marinade; vinegar is a common ingredient.

When you expose it to heat to cook, some properties will remain. 

Use in salad dressings: Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar to a homemade salad dressing.

Use in ferments: Add its amount to homemade pickles or make fermented food items with the condiment. 

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Cause Side Effects?

Apple cider vinegar is not an approved treatment for ED, diabetes, or weight issues.

Never use it to replace any medical treatment.

Apple cider vinegar is an acetic acid that can cause stomach pain, throat or oesophagus irritation, and tooth enamel erosion, especially with regular raw use.

A 2021 study linked daily doses (2 tablespoons for 3+ weeks) to noticeable enamel erosion.

It may also lower potassium levels, leading to hypokalemia, and interact with diuretics or insulin, reducing their effectiveness.

Always consult a doctor before use.

When to See a Doctor

Stop using apple cider vinegar and seek medical help if you experience symptoms like:

• Muscle cramps or twitching
• Weakness or fatigue
• Lightheadedness
• Excessive thirst or frequent urination
• Bloating, stomach pain, or constipation
• Diarrhea
• Numbness or tingling in limbs
• Irregular heart rhythms

These may signal serious side effects or imbalances.

What are the proven treatments for ED?

One of the most commonly prescribed ED treatments includes erectile dysfunction medicines.

Oral ED medications are a common treatment that improves blood flow to help achieve firm erections of penis.

Common prescription options include Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra tablets.

Discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor before use. Avoid relying on unproven remedies like apple cider vinegar and seek medical advice for proper treatment.

Final lines

Taking apple cider vinegar daily can help you reap positive benefits for your health. It may help address some underlying causes of ED and help prevent it.

However, no research claims that apple cider vinegar can treat ED or any other health issue resulting in ED. 

However, there's nothing wrong with adding a little apple cider vinegar to your daily diet. It will be worth using even if it shows little benefits to your overall health at minimal cost and risk.