Men's Targeted Health

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), erectile disorder is characterized by the recurrent inability to achieve or maintain an adequate erection for sexual activity (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Clinical studies have expanded on these criteria, illustrating that psychological factors can also contribute to the disorder (Rosen et al., 2004, Journal of Sexual Medicine).

In contrast, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) attributes erectile dysfunction primarily to kidney essence deficiency, which involves both kidney yin and yang imbalances. In TCM, the kidney essence is intrinsically tied to various life processes, including growth, development, and reproduction (Ma et al., 2012, Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine). Both Western and TCM perspectives offer nuanced understandings of erectile dysfunction, although their diagnostic criteria and therapeutic approaches differ significantly.