Background: Sexual function is an important aspect of overall quality of life, and disruptions in this area can significantly harm interpersonal relationships, emotional well-being, and self-esteem. The high prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its complications, especially in men, and the shortcomings of the current treatments highlight the need for alternative approaches, particularly traditional Persian medicine.
Methods: The methodology used in this narrative review study is content analysis. The search was conducted using sources from traditional Persian medicine, including the following: "Qanoon in Medicine" by Ibn Sina, "Zakhirrh (Repository) of Kharazmshahi" by Seyyed Ismail Jorjani, and "Exir (Elixir)" by Hakim Azam Khan. Additionally, databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and SID were searched until April 2023, using relevant keywords without any time restrictions.
Results: From the perspective of Persian traditional medicine (TPM), sexual dysfunction is the inability to have sexual intercourse, and its leading causes include: quantitative and qualitative changes in semen, weakness of vital organs of the body such as the brain, heart, and liver, stomach and kidney, long-term intimacy leaving, low intravascular flatulence (gas), weakness of mental and emotional states, and weakness of the nerves of the penis. The principles of treating this disorder are based on dietary measures, strengthening vital organs, and then using sexual-enhancing drugs or supplements or manipulations such as massage.
Conclusion: Integrating knowledge from traditional Persian medicine and modern treatments can facilitate future research, develop projects in this area, and enhance the treatment of sexual disorders.