Common male sexual issues generally include poor hardness and short duration. The first reaction for many is to assume kidney deficiency and choose to tonify the kidneys; however, while this works for some, it is ineffective for others. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed that one should first regulate the liver. The liver governs the tendons (Zongjin), and it is a key factor in managing male issues. Problems such as the inability of the "ancestral tendon" to rise, poor dredging and discharging functions, or the downward flow of damp-heat can all lead to impotence and premature ejaculation. A normal male erection requires mobilizing the strength of all the muscles in the genital area, known as the Zongjin. To put it simply, it is like an engine and its fuel. The liver stores blood, and the distribution of Qi and blood is managed by the liver. If the dredging and discharging of Qi and blood are dysfunctional and the "engine" fails to start, it easily leads to poor hardness or even the inability to achieve an erection.

Furthermore, for those who prefer heavy oil and spicy flavors, damp-heat often builds up in the body. When damp-heat descends to the liver and gallbladder, it causes "downward flow of damp-heat in the liver meridian," leading to scrotal dampness, sticky stools, and erectile dysfunction. When damp-heat flows downward, tonics cannot be absorbed. Since damp-heat is already gathered in the lower body causing blockages, any attempt to tonify the kidneys or Yang at this stage will only worsen the damp-heat. For these patients, the priority is to first resolve the damp-heat and dredge the liver Qi, and only then proceed to nourish liver blood and supplement kidney Qi.

To clear damp-heat, you may refer to Longdan Xiegan Wan; to soothe liver qi, you may refer to Chaihu Shugan San; and to nourish the liver and kidneys, you may refer to Liuwei Dihuang Wan.

However, please note that Traditional Chinese Medicine requires syndrome differentiation; if needed, please consult a professional physician for diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner.