When it comes to treating abnormal penile erection after sexual activity—especially when it's painful, dark purple in color, and hard to touch—Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a gentle yet targeted solution. This condition, which is not to be confused with typical erectile dysfunction, occurs when the erection does not subside after intercourse. In TCM theory, it’s often linked to "excess liver fire" and "damp-heat accumulation," patterns typically accompanied by urinary pain, bitter taste in the mouth, and a red tongue with yellow, greasy coating. The following herbal formula has shown great promise in addressing these symptoms.
How Exactly This Herbal Solution Targets the Root Causes
Core Ingredients and Their Functions
This traditional herbal decoction is designed to clear liver fire, drain damp-heat, cool the blood, and relieve pain. It includes:
- Gentian root (Long Dan Cao), Akebia stem (Mu Tong), Alisma (Ze Xie), Plantain seed (Che Qian Zi), Gardenia (Zhi Zi), and Phellodendron bark (Huang Bai)
- Each at 10 grams for strong heat-clearing and diuretic properties
- Bupleurum (Chai Hu) and Angelica Sinensis (Dang Gui) at 7 grams to harmonize and nourish the blood
- Prepared Rehmannia root (Sheng Di) at 20 grams to cool the blood and generate fluids
- Licorice root (Gan Cao) 5 grams to harmonize the formula and support digestion
- Optional Add: Rhubarb root (Da Huang) 8 grams if constipation is present
Preparation: One dose per day. Simmer all herbs in water, divide into three servings, and take throughout the day.
Important Note: When using herbs like Gardenia (Zhi Zi) or Akebia stem (Mu Tong), experienced TCM guidance is required, especially for patients with pre-existing kidney or liver concerns. Do not consume this formula long-term without supervision.
Common Safety Reminders, Especially Regarding Individual Herbs
TCM classics like “Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing” often remind us that herbs should be used not just correctly, but moderately. For example, if using gingko (Bai Guo) in other remedies, make sure to remove the core (embryo) and heed caution: gingko should not be used excessively or over long periods.
Surprisingly Quick Results: What Studies and Cases Say
Studies and case reviews show that this herbal protocol can be effective in as little as 1 to 3 days. Among five documented cases involving men with excessive liver fire and damp-heat symptoms, pain and swelling subsided within a single dose in most cases, and full recovery was noted after 3 doses. That's faster than many modern pharmaceutical approaches, with significantly fewer side effects (PMID: 10516987).
According to the English translation of the Huangdi Neijing, sexual health disorders stemming from internal fire and dampness often require both detoxification and targeted nourishment (PMID: 32790534).
And a modern PubMed clinical review confirms that certain Phellodendron and Gentian-based formulas are effective in treating heat-type urological inflammation (PMID: 28752497).
Try This Easy Self-Test and First-Aid Routine Right Away
3 Seconds: Quick Self-Check
If your erection remains painful, hard, and purple for more than 30 minutes after intercourse, accompanied by burning urination and dry mouth, this may indicate "liver fire" and damp-heat type stagnation.
30 Seconds: Fast Herbal Rescue Combo
If you're experiencing those symptoms → brew the decoction outlined above and sip the first serving warm. Add Rhubarb (Da Huang) if constipated.
Remember, effective TCM relies on listening to your body. This isn't a one-size-fits-all drug—but it might be a fit for you.
For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.
