Herbs for Libido: Natural Remedies to Enhance Sexual Desire

Libido refers to a desire to indulge in sexual activity, including sexual intercourse and masturbation.

Numerous people may have libido fluctuations, which various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, and lifestyle choices, can influence.

While medications are available to treat low libido, many people are turning to herbal therapies to support and improve their desire for sex.

In this article, we’ll look at common herbs for libido enhancement.

These specific herbs are said to improve libido, safety issues, and possible side effects of herbal therapies.

Common herbs for libido enhancement

Some of the most common herbs for libido enhancement include: 

• Tribulus Terrestris: For a long time, libido and sexual performance have been improved using Tribulus Terrestris in traditional medicine. It is believed to function by raising Testosterone levels, which may boost both men’s and women’s sexual drive.
  
• Damiana: Traditional medicine has long employed damiana as an Aphrodisiac good for sexual stamina.
  Despite a lack of studies, it is thought to promote sexual health by encouraging relaxation and lowering Anxiety.
  
• Ginseng: Ginseng may indirectly support increased sexual desire and performance by reducing stress and boosting energy levels.

Herbs that could heighten your desire for sex are abundant in nature. Before taking anything to boost libido, consult your doctor.

Herbs for women’s libido

Source: ISMODE_from_Getty_Images

A woman’s libido may fluctuate due to hormonal changes, including Menopause, psychological illnesses, medicines, or lifestyle choices.

Low libido in women may have a negative impact on their sexual health and capacity for pleasure.

Certain herbs may help boost a women’s sexual desire:

• Red Clover: Isoflavones (a form of phytoestrogen, a plant substance with actions similar to estrogen) found in red clover have Phytoestrogenic qualities that may improve female libido and regulate hormone levels.
  
• Black Cohosh: Menopausal symptoms can be reduced by black cohosh, which may indirectly affect a woman’s desire for sex during hormonal changes.
  
• Dong Quai: A traditional Chinese herb called Dong Quai is frequently used to improve female reproductive health.
  Dong Quai is also known as ‘female Ginseng’ because Ginseng is very similar to a Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5) medicine like Viagra. It helps in hormonal balance and to increase sexual desire in women.

Herbs for men’s libido

Source: Barna_Tanko_from_Getty_Images

Low sexual drive or low libido is a prevalent problem among men of all ages.

Low libido in males can result from various causes, including Diabetes, Depression, and low Testosterone, etc.

The following herbs may help influence male libido:

• Saw Palmetto: Saw palmetto is a small palm tree found in Florida and other southeastern states. Saw palmetto is commonly used to alleviate the symptoms of a condition called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which causes an enlarged prostate. It may indirectly affect sexual function and desire by boosting prostate health.
  
• Ashwagandha: Ayurvedic herb Ashwagandha is well known for boosting male libido in men.  It helps address the factors contributing to low libido, such as stress and low Testosterone. The beneficial effects of Ashwagandha on stress and Testosterone levels have been reported in numerous studies.
  
• Maca root: Native to the Andes, maca root is well known for its libido-booster qualities. It is thought to enhance sexual performance, desire, and overall sexual function. According to specific research, Maca may favor hormone levels, especially in men, increasing libido. It has active ingredients that could increase blood flow to the genital organs and enhance male sexual activity.

Safety and side effects of herbs for libido enhancement

Herbs can help naturally boost libido, but using them responsibly is essential.

Herbs might have adverse effects or interfere with medications.

People should speak with a doctor before using any herbal remedies, especially if they have current medical concerns or are taking a prescription.

There may be stomach pain, headaches, allergic reactions, and changes in blood pressure when using herbs to increase libido.

It’s essential to remember that many herbs lack scientific backing, and some organic substances may have negative consequences.

Many medications are promoted and marketed specifically for their ability to increase libido in both males and females.

Female sexual desire is treated with FDA-approved medications, including Flibanserin (Addyi) and Bremelanotide (Vyleesi).

Medicines designed specifically to address male sexual desire include Vardenafil (Levitra), Tadalafil (Cialis), and Sildenafil (Viagra). 

Lifestyle factors and other natural approaches

In addition to using natural methods and libido-boosting herbs, some lifestyle choices can significantly impact a person’s ability to have and maintain sexual desire.

Integrating these practices into daily life can complement the use of herbs and contribute to a holistic approach to boosting libido.

People can consider the following natural treatments and lifestyle choices: 

• A balanced diet: For general health, including sexual health, a diet rich in critical nutrients must be consumed. 
  
• Adequate sleep: It’s essential to get sufficient good sleep for overall health, which includes sexual wellness.
  Lack of sleep can cause weariness, low energy, and hormonal imbalances, all of which can affect libido.
  
• Reducing alcohol and substance use: Drug and excessive alcohol usage can have a negative impact on sexual performance and desire. Maintaining healthy sexual function can be achieved by limiting alcohol use and abstaining from drug use.
  
• Avoiding smoking: Smoking can harm blood vessels and reduce blood flow, impacting sexual function.
  Sexual desire can be improved by quitting smoking or limiting exposure to secondhand smoke.

Conclusion

There are many herbs for libido enhancement, but only a few have scientific support.

Although these herbs appear to have positive effects, it is essential to remember that the effects may not be the same for all individuals.

Also, it’s important to note that these herbs for libido may interact with some medications.

Speaking with a healthcare provider is essential before using herbs for libido enhancement.

In addition to the impacts of herbal therapies, a more satisfying and fulfilling sexual experience can be achieved by addressing lifestyle issues.

Remember that a comprehensive approach to sexual health can help you have an enjoyable intimate life.

Many medications like Flibanserin, Bremelanotide, Vardenafil, and Tadalafil are available to increase libido in both males and females.

You should consult your doctor before taking any medicine to increase your libido.

Frequently Asked Questions

• healthline.com
• healthline.com
• pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov