1 Take ginkgo biloba

Enhanced blood flow to the penis can improve a man's ability to attain and maintain an erection. The herb ginkgo biloba is a circulation enhancer, and some men find it a useful erectile aid: 40-80 mg should be taken three times a day, though benefits may take two or three months.

2 Take damiana

Damiana was the favourite aphrodisiac of the ancient Mayans. Damiana seems to exert its libido-enhancing effects quickly after ingestion, making it ideal for use on an 'as required' basis. 5 mls (1 tsp) of Damiana tincture (alcoholic extract) should be taken an hour before sex.

3 Take Panax ginseng

Panax ginseng (also known as Korean ginseng) is another herb which has the ability to combat impotence and enhance sexual appetite. 100-200 mg of standardised extract (containing 5-7 per cent active ingredients known as ginsenosides) should be taken every day. Panax ginseng is usually taken for periods of 2-3 weeks, interspersed with breaks of 1-2 weeks.

4 Take Catuaba

Catuaba has been hailed as a potent aphrodisiac by the Brazilian people for hundreds of years. The recommended dose is 1,000 mg, twice a day.

5 Take Muira puama

Another South American favourite, Muira puama (which means 'potency wood') is believed to enhance sexual excitability and improve erectile function. The normal recommended dose is 1,000-1,500 mg per day.

6 Take arginine

Arginine is an amino acid that stimulates levels of nitric oxide that helps dilate blood vessels and which assists the development and maintenance of an erection. 3,000- 5,000 mg (3 - 5 g) should be taken about 45 minutes prior to sex.

7 Get fit

Studies suggest that regular exercise and weight loss helps to ward off impotence, and can even restore sexual function in some men. A diet based on natural, unprocessed foods such as fish, fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans and lentils, combined with about 30 minutes' activity each day, is likely to bring benefits.

8 Stop smoking

Smoking is one lifestyle factor that has been associated with increased risk of erectile failure, and is best avoided by individuals having problems in this area.

9 Have testosterone levels checked

Testosterone is a major driver of libido, and low levels can be an underlying cause in loss of sexual appetite or impotence.

10 Get checked out

Sometimes loss of libido or impotence can be the result of an underlying medical condition such as heart disease, diabetes or under-functioning of the thyroid gland. If worried, see your GP.