Testosterone is a hormone produced in the testes. It is responsible for male sexual development during puberty, as well as muscle growth and strength. Testosterone production naturally decreases with age. Beginning at around the age of 25 and sometimes decreasing as much as 10% per decade.

Sometimes a mans testosterone level becomes lower than what is normal for his age. This can be caused by many factors and the effects of a low testosterone level can be very disturbing.

One of the effects of low testosterone is a decrease in sexual desire or libido. Noticing this, a man may try aphrodisiacs or think that he is no longer attracted to his partner. Depending on the age of the man, a decrease in testosterone production may be the actual problem.

A low testosterone level can be corrected. There is a school of thought today that says that our hormones do not decrease because we age, but that we age because our hormones decrease.

Noticing an increase in fatigue or a lack of energy, a man may think that he is just getting older, but these things could be caused by a decrease in testosterone production. A low testosterone level could be the culprit. The good news is that the effects of low testosterone can be reversed to a large degree for many people.

Feeling sad, depressed or nervous, a man may think that he needs a prescription for an anti-depressant or an anti-anxiety medication. If the actual problem is reduced testosterone production, then medications like these will only make other symptoms (like sexual dysfunction) worse.

Some products may actually increase testosterone production. Athletes and body-builders have long known the effects of low testosterone on their strength, endurance and over all performance.

Because of this, they and their trainers have experimented with nutritional supplements and herbal products like tribulus terrestris and avena sativa. Their experience has proven to be beneficial to the average, non-athlete, non-body builder who just wants to feel normal.

There is even a correlation between low levels of testosterone and heart disease in men.

If you think that you may be suffering from the effects of low testosterone or reduced testosterone production, consult your doctor. A simple blood or saliva test will compare your testosterone level to what is normal for your age and a treatment plan can be devised.

Testosterone replacement therapy may not be necessary. Studies have shown that testosterone production can be increased naturally by a variety of means.

But if you are suffering from a more serious condition associated with low testosterone, such as andropause, you may need prescription strength testosterone.