Aphrodisiac Herbs : Best Effective Sex Boosters

What are Aphrodisiacs?

At some point in our lives we may experience low libido and an extra boost is required to keep the passion alive. For centuries people have made use of aphrodisiacs as libido enhancers to achieve greater sexual health and functioning. An aphrodisiac is a substance such as food, drink, drug, scent or device that can arouse or induce feelings of sexual desire. The name comes from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of sexuality and love. Throughout history, many foods, drinks, and behaviors have had a reputation for making sex more attainable and pleasurable. Aphrodisiacs have a powerful impact on the mind as they are thought to trigger the release of chemicals in the brain which then stimulate certain organs. However, from a historical and scientific standpoint, the alleged results may have been mainly due to mere belief by their users that they would be effective. In particular, Western medical science has no substantiated claims that any particular food increases sexual desire or performance. Most aphrodisiacs enhance aspects of the sensory experience such as sight, touch, smell, taste and hearing – which in turn increases sexual drive or libido, improves performance and results in greater sexual satisfaction. Some foods are thought to have aphrodisiac properties.

Herbal Aphrodisiacs Solutions

According to folklore, natural aphrodisiacs may help to raise libido and increase desire. They’re being used by an increasing number of people to give their sex lives a boost. But some of them may cause side effects or interact with medications and others haven’t been proven. Here are the facts about some popular aphrodisiac herbs and supplements.

Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris):

Tribulus gives rise to testosterone production by stimulating the pituitary gland to release lutensiing hormone (LH). This hormone in turn increases testosterone levels that enhances not only libido in men but also increases libido in women. In men with high sperm morbidity (non viable sperm) and low mobility, tribulus has also been observed to increase sperm count. Tribulus relaxes smooth muscles and improves the circulation in the genital region of both men and women, leading to improved sexual response. For women, the hormone balancing effects of Tribulus terrestris make this a suitable herb for premenstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms. This is particularly nourishing and is recommended for both men and women who have lowered libido. In India, this herb is an age-old treatment for sex problems. It contains protodioscine, a compound the body converts into the male sex hormone dehydroepiandosterone. Tribulus also increases production of nitric oxide, a compound that increases blood flow into the genitals. To date, no human trials have investigated its sexual effects. But in two animal studies, the herb increased erection firmness and sexual frequency of male rats. The researchers concluded: “Tribulus appears to possess aphrodisiac activity at least in rats. “Animal studies don’t always translate into human effects,” Blumenthal explains. “We need human trials. But tribulus increases nitric oxide, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it improves sexual function.”

Tribulus terrestris L Side Effects: Don’t take tribulus if you’re currently taking nitroglycerin for angina.

Muira puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides):

Folklore throughout South America strongly supports muira puama’s stimulating properties. It is commonly referred to not only as an aphrodisiac but also as a nerve stimulant that is said to heighten the receptiveness to sexual stimuli. Muira puama is known to be good for the psychological and physical aspects of sexual function. Studies show a positive effect on erectile dysfunction, sexual desire, libido, menstrual cramps and PMS. The short term effects of Muira Puama include increasing blood flow to the pelvic area, aiding erections in men as well as sensation and orgasm in women. Longer term use enhances the production of sex hormones in both sexes. Muira Puama has a long history of use in England, and is still listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, where it is recommended to treat impotence, amongst other things. Muira puama seems to have two effects: increasing libido and increasing penile hardness. Muira puama is rich in naturally occurring sterols, which are possible building blocks for hormones such as testosterone. Also present are numerous other chemicals and volatile oils like camphor, which help restore the sex drive and inner depth of libido. The second effect, penile hardness may stem from its apparent effect on circulation.

Muira puama Side Effects: It has no noted side effects though, as with many sexual stimulants, it can slightly raise blood pressure. Erections lasting more than 4 hours require emergency medical (surgical) attention. Not recommended for pregnant women.

Damiana: (Turnera diffusa):

Damiana is a plant native to Mexico and the southern United States. It has been widely used as an aphrodisiac in Mexico for men and women. The ancient Mayans used this herb as a sex-booster. One species’ scientific name includes aphrodisiaca. Italian researchers showed that damiana “improves the copulatory performance of sexually sluggish or impotent rats”. These results seem to support damiana’s folk reputation as a sex stimulant. One animal study isn’t much, and a pharmacological analysis of this plant concluded: “No substantive data are available to support its aphrodisiac effects.” Kilham agrees: “As far as I can tell, sexual claims for damiana are baseless.” Wuh says damiana is a mild stimulant that can cause tingling in the urethra (urine tube) and genitals, sensations that can be experienced as sexual. “Damiana really needs to be more thoroughly researched,” Blumenthal explains. However, Damiana is used primarily as an aphrodisiac for both sexes, and as a stimulant that can boost mental focus and stamina. Chemical analysis shows that damiana contains alkaloids similar to caffeine that have stimulating and aphrodisiac effects, stimulating blood flow to the genital area and increasing sensitivity. Some people report feelings of mild euphoria. Damiana is often combined with saw palmetto in formulas that address male prostate health.

Damiana Side Effects: Damiana leaf tea may lower blood sugars, but tinctures do not. Since one of the traditional uses of the damiana herb was to induce abortion, it should be avoided in pregnancy.

Ginseng (Panax ginseng):

For centuries, Asians have considered ginseng a tonic, meaning that it subtly strengthens the entire body. It’s only a short step from this claim to sex enhancement. Recent research suggests that ginseng increases the body’s production of nitric oxide, a compound essential for erection. Korean researchers gave 45 men with erection problems either a placebo or ginseng (900 mg three times a day). After eight weeks, the ginseng group experienced significant erection improvement. Another Korean study came up with similar results. “I’m persuaded that ginseng helps with erection problems,” Blumenthal says. Colorado physician Linda B. White, M.D., coauthor (with Steven Foster) of The Herbal Drugstore, adds that ginseng “enhances overall physical vitality. As vitality increases, people often feel more interested in sex.” “Ginseng provides an unquestionable boost for libido and men’s erections,” Kilham says. “The problem is, people often don’t take enough of it. You have to use what that Korean study used, around 900 mg three times a day.”

Sida cordifolia:

The main active ingredient is Sida cordifolia extract, which contains L-Ephedrine. Ephedrine is a natural amphetamine that gives stimulation of the central nervous system (CNS), similar to speed (but to a lesser extent,) along with the excitation of the peripheral nervous system, that is far greater than that associated with Speed. This peripheral activity is what gives the rushes and the tingling of the skin and hair, and the heightened sexual sensitivity. The nature of Ephedrine assures that the overall effects are markedly different from those associated with Speed and other abused Amphetamines such as Ecstasy. As an Aphrodisiac it is used for it’s stimulating qualities. It stimulates the metabolism and the nervous system, whilst relaxing and opening the respiratory system. Because of this it has Euphoric and energising qualities, it’s good for use if you want to wake up, sharpen your senses in love making whilst relaxing and breathing more deeply. Because of its Euphoric qualities it is known to induce states of love and happiness. For men, Sida Cordifolia encourages physical endurance, strength and presence of being in love making.

Yohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe):

Yohimbe is called herbal viagra by some. The bark of this West African tree may be your best natural bet for reversing sexual dysfunction, though at the cost of several side effects. Until the advent of Viagra, the most commonly prescribed drug for erection problems was a pharmaceutical isolation of yohimbe’s’ active phytochemical, yohimbine. Called “herbal viagra” by the February 1999 edition of Environmental Nutrition, yohimbe’s power comes from a combination of alkaloids. Alkaloids are organic plant substances that have strong medicinal properties and are frequently used as drugs. The terms yohimbine, yohimbine hydrochloride, and yohimbe bark extract are related but different. Yohimbe refers to the herb. Yohimbine refers to the active chemical found not only in yohimbe but also in Indian snakewood, periwinkle, quebracho, and niando. For a significant number of men who try it, yohimbe lives up to its reputation as a sexual performance enhancer. While Yohimbe herb is often thought of for male erectile dysfunction support, most people don’t realize that yohimbe is also effective in women. This herb increases blood flow to the genitals of both males and females giving women an enhanced sensation and engorgement of genital organs. However, keep the dose low to prevent side effects.

Side Effects: Seek medical attention in an emergency room if erection lasts more than four hours. Recommended under the supervision of someone qualified to use this substance. Not recommended if you have severe kidney or liver disease. Not to be taken if you are currently on blood thinning medication, and it is not recommended to be taken for extended periods of time. Side effects can include anxiety, dizziness, rapid heart rate, insomnia, and nausea. Extremely high doses can cause hallucinations and cause muscular dysfunction. The herb contains compounds capable of elevating and also lowering blood pressure to a possibly dangerous level.

Maca (Lepidium peruvianum):

This energizing plant is also referred to as Peruvian ginseng (although maca is not in the same family as ginseng, it is actually closely related to the radish). Maca has been used for centuries in the Andes to enhance fertility in humans and animals and has gained quite a reputation as a sexual tonic. Maca has been growing in world popularity over the last several years due to several large U.S. marketing campaigns touting its energizing and hormonal balancing properties. As a female tonic, maca may help with menstrual irregularities, female hormonal imbalances, and unwanted symptoms of menopause. Maca root is often combined with other herbs like Tribulus to help increase libido, and to assist both sexes in promoting a healthy sexual response.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa):

Wild yam root is a potent source of diosgenin, a chemical that resembles female sex hormones and was used in the manufacture of the first oral contraceptives. Wild yam is extremely useful for many gynecological complaints. Historically, it appears to support healthy menstrual cycles by lessening pain and cramping. Wild yam’s diosgenin, is a precursor in the chemical synthesis of progesterone, a hormone whose numerous functions include uterine health and warding off PMS. Wild yam has been used for women’s sexual health for a long time. It balances female sex hormones, so is useful for naturally enhancing the shape and texture of the breasts. As an aphrodisiac its main strengths are stimulating balance of sexual hormones and in this way promoting a healthy sexual desire. It should not be taken by women with hormone-dependent conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and cancers of the breast, ovaries, or uterus, due to its possible estrogenic effects. Men with prostate cancer should also avoid taking wild yam. Pregnant women should not take wild yam because it may stimulate the uterus to contract, possibly causing a miscarriage. Though the exact mechanism is not fully known, wild yam has a long history of giving women relief from hot flashes, insomnia, cramps, headaches, migraines, and vaginal dryness. It generally takes a period of a few months or more to see results. Wild yam also contains beta carotene, the antioxidant that is so important to maintaining a healthy cholesterol level.

Wild Yam Side Effects: Can cause stomach upset in large doses. Some preparations of Mexican yam may contain additional progesterone, avoid products that are labeled natural progesterone, as they either contain no progesterone, or they contain synthetic progesterone. Not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.

Saw Palmetto [Seronoa repens]:

A long standing mainstay of most if not all aphrodisiacs on the market and any product would be deficient if this were not present. It aids in the prostrate function and increases its potency. The berries are the part used and are very nutritious and act as a tonic for the glandular tissues. They have an anticatarrhal influence on sore urinary passages. They are frequently used in cases of atrophy of the testes and mammary glands. They are most famous for their ability to increase the production of sperm in males when taken regularly. In this sense it can be regarded as a truly beneficial aphrodisiac. Saw Palmetto has been indicated for its use in men’s sexual health. Saw palmetto boosts and strengthens sexual appetite; it also restores sexual health. It is used for the prevention and treatment of prostate enlargement. Saw palmetto helps stabilise the natural process in men of the hormone testosterone decreasing after age 40. So in this way it supports male sex hormones and is a tonic for the reproductive system. Saw palmetto has also been indicated for women as an aphrodisiac, as a sexual stimulant and breast enhancer. It is not to be combined with anti-androgenic medication.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

Ashwagandha is a herb from the Ayurvedic system and is known for its adaptogen qualities, this means that it strengthens the systems of the body against stress and modern living. Apart from being an all round tonic, it is an Aphrodisiac and is known to balance the male and female sex hormones. It is these potent bits of our bio-chemistry that govern desire, libido, pleasure, and sexual performance. It is said to bring “the strength of the stallion” to a man, enhancing his sexual staying power and libido. Known as Indian Ginseng, if there is a depletion of energy, it is known for nourishing male energy and it is used to treat impotence. It increases semen production, and improves the quality of sperm, therefore it is used to treat infertility in men. For women, Ashwagandha is a food for love, and although it is used largely as a male tonic in Ayurveda, it is recommended for women when strength is needed in conditions of debility and during pregnancy.

Catuba Bark (Erythroxylum catuaba):

Catuaba is a legendary Brazilian Aphrodisiac plant first used by the Tupi Indians. It is the most famous of all Brazilian plants used by the indigenous people and locals as a Herbal Aphrodisiac for many generations. For men it is known to enliven the libido. In Brazilian medicine it is often combined with Muira Puama to have a dual action of tonifying the male sexual and urinary organs and relieving the condition of impotence. If it is consumed regularly it is thought to first bring erotic dreams and then to bring increased libido. Catuaba is a nervous system tonic which stimulates, calms, and balances all at the same time. It is thought to stimulate libido in women, and to treat lack of sexual desire and frigidity. Because it also is an anti-anxiety remedy working on hypertension and stress, it can positively effect the emotional causes for lower sexual energy.

Clavohuasca (Tynanthus panurensis):

Clavohuasca is a traditional South American medicine used as an aphrodisiac, for centuries in Brazil and Peru. Clavohuasca is known to stimulate libido and treat sexual dysfunction in men and women. Clavohuasca is the most effective for men as a remedy for erectile dysfunction, and weakness of erection. It is also used traditionally for relieving impotence. Clavohuasca is a strong sexual stimulant and increases libido in pre-menopausal women. It is also a remedy for frigidity.

Coffee : “Coffee is a powerful central nervous system stimulant,” says Chris Kilham, an ethnobotanist at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and author of Hot Plants: Nature’s Proven Sex Boosters for Men and Women. “It excites nerves all over the body, including the ones involved in sex.” In one study, University of Michigan researchers surveyed 744 married couples, age 60 or older, and discovered that women who were daily coffee drinkers were more likely to call themselves sexually active: 62 percent versus just 38 percent of the women who abstained from coffee. In addition, coffee was a boon to erection. Fifty-nine percent of non-coffee-drinking men reported erectile dysfunction (ED). Among coffee drinkers, the figure was only 36 percent. It’s possible that the caffeine buzz from coffee (or to a less extent, tea) boosted these elders’ sexual energy. It’s also possible that healthier, more libidinous elders were more likely to drink it, so coffee’s effects on sex remain unclear. “Caffeine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant,” Blumenthal explains. “When people get a caffeine buzz, some feel a sexual buzz as well.”

Dose and Safety: Most coffee drinkers consume one to two cups a day. Coffee causes insomnia, jitters, and irritability. It has also been accused of contributing to heart disease and cancer. But the largest, most authoritative studies show that one to two cups a day do not increase risk of heart disease or cancer.

Ginkgo biloba:

Ginkgo has no historical reputation as an aphrodisiac, but since the 1980s, many studies have shown that it improves blood flow through the brain, slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Ginkgo also boosts blood flow into the genitals. At the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), researchers gave ginkgo (240 mg/day) to 63 men and women suffering sexual side effects from antidepressants: libido loss, ED, loss of vaginal lubrication, and loss of orgasm. After up to two years, the herb helped 76 percent of the men, and 91 percent of the women. There was no placebo group, however, placebos usually benefit around one-third of those who use them. The response rate in this study was twice that, suggesting real benefit. However, in two other studies, ginkgo provided no benefit for antidepressant-induced sex problems. But those studies were comparatively brief, just a month or two. Apparently, it takes longer for ginkgo’s sexual benefits to appear. “There’s no question that ginkgo opens blood vessels and improves blood flow,” Blumenthal says, “so it’s certainly plausible that it would improve blood flow into the genitals. The research so far is intriguing, but thin. I wish there were more studies.”

Possible side effects include: stomach upset, headache, jitters, rashes, dizziness, and heart palpitations. Ginkgo is also an anticoagulant. It may increase bruising and prolong bleeding.

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis):

There are over 300 species in the asparagus family, many are used medicinally, grown as ornaments or eaten as vegetables. The most well-known species, Asparagus officinalis, is commonly referred to as just asparagus. Asparagus is a healthy vegetable and a useful diuretic and laxative. Asparagus racemosus is the species used in India for medicinal purposes. Known in India as Shatavari, asparagus has been a treatment for infertility and lack of libido in women for thousands of years, and is regarded as one of the most important herbal tonics for women.

Asparagus Side Effects: Consult with a physician before using if pregnant or nursing.

Epimedium (Epimedium grandiflorum):

Epimedium, also known as Yin Yang Huo or Horny Goat Weed, is a powerful remedy in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used for thousands of years to promote male potency and as an aphrodisiac. Modern Chinese herbal medicine uses epimedium (usually in combination with other herbs) not just to treat impotence, but also for asthma, bronchitis cervical dysplasia, congestive heart failure, leukorrhea, leukopenia, and viral infections of the heart. To treat menopause in women it is often combined with Morinda to treat hypertension, and is officially listed by the Chinese Academy of Medial Sciences as one of an elite group of herbs that slow down aging and promote longevity. Perhaps even more important have been the recent discoveries that Epimedium has powerful immune-modulating activity. Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM practitioners use this herb to increase the Yang energies, for instance, it would be used to enhance male sexual performance. Recent research has confirmed that Yin Yang Huo can increase sperm production and stimulate sexual desire.

Epimedium Side Effects: Do not exceed recommended dose. Overdoses can cause rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure.

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia):

The principal way this herb works is to increase testosterone in the blood. This herb is traditionally prescribed in Malaysia as an aphrodisiac, an herbal treatment for impotence or sexual dysfunction and as a sexual enhancer. Tongkat ali seems to not only assist in maintaining erections but also increases low sex drive, or sexual desire.

Mucuna / Kapikachhu (Mucuna pruriens):

Mucuna pruriens contains a natural source of L-Dopa, which stimulates the brain chemical dopamine, which is known to improve mood, stimulate sexuality, and have anti-depressant effects. Traditionally it has been known as an aphrodisiac since ancient times. Mucuna pruriens is well known for its aphrodiaiac qualities for men. It is known to boost testosterone levels, increase sperm count and improve sexual desire. Mucuna pruriens is known for its mood improving qualities. It can lift depression and stimulate sexual desire in women.

Cubeb (Piper cubeba) :

In India, Sanskrit texts included cubeb in various remedies. Unani physicians use a paste of the cubeb berries externally on male and female genitals to intensify sexual pleasure during coitus. This use may have been the basis of cubeb as a legendary aphrodisiac. Outside of culinary use as a “red alternative” to black pepper, cubeb is little used in the West. In traditional Chinese medicine cubeb is used for its alleged warming property.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis):

In traditional Chinese medicine, only ginseng is more esteemed than Dong Quai. The name dong quai means proper order and for thousands of years the dried roots have been used to restore a healthy order to the body. Since ancient times, dong-quai has been an important herb for women. Historically, it has been prescribed for uterine bleeding, painful menses, and other abnormalities of the menstrual cycle. For menopausal women it addresses symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings. Considered the most important Chinese herb for menstrual disorders, its blood tonic, circulation-enhancing, pain-relieving, tranquilizing, and liver-protecting qualities are sometimes overlooked. Dong quai contains many nutrients, from metals like cobalt, copper and manganese, to plant sterols, which have chemical structures similar to human hormones like estrogen.

Dong Quai Side Effects: Not for use while pregnant or if you have an acute viral infection. May stimulate bleeding. If taken over long period of time, it is suggested discontinue use during the monthly menstrual cycle.

Clary Sage (Salvia officinalis):

Clary sage has a special affinity with the female system in general and is often recommended for women who are experiencing hot flashes, pain and tension associated with menopause, menstrual problems and PMS. Clary sage oil contains sclareol which has an estrogen-like structure, contributing to clary’s effectiveness in returning balance to the female reproductive system. Clary sage oil’s antispasmodic properties relieve pain and menstrual cramping in massage oil blends. Clary sage oil is ideal to use on a regular basis in baths or perfumes to revitalize and rejuvenate the body and mind. Massage with clary sage oil is profoundly relaxing with a sensual quality making it beneficial for frigidity partly due to it’s hormonal aphrodisiacal influence. The essential oil is clear, and has a sweet, nutty scent, almost a floral quality. It calms the parasympathetic nervous system and is a good remedy for nervous stress. Contains a hormone-like compound similar to estrogen that regulates hormonal balance.

Clary Sage Side Effects: Generally considered non-toxic, but not recommended in cases of active tumors or breast cancer. A small dose is very effective, large doses can cause headaches, rather than euphoria.

Rose (Rosa spp):

The rose is highly steeped in history and romance and was one of the most valued medicinal plants in the monastery gardens of medieval Europe. When we think of roses as a medicinal herb, we tend to think only of the high vitamin C content of the rosehips, but this represents only a fraction of the healing powers of this garden favorite. Rose and rose bark are astringent and help staunch bleeding from scrapes and cuts and rose petals turn an everyday bath into a luxurious spa treatment for the body and spirit. Astringent and luxurious rose oils and rose waters are welcome additions to almost any natural beauty and skin care formulation. Attar of rose is one of the oldest and best known of all the oils used in aromatherapy. While it is very expensive only a few precious drops are needed to impart the fragrance, and affect the mood. Sensual and evocative, the rose has been used since ancient times as a favorite ingredient in love potions and as an aphrodisiac. The scent of roses is a time honored anti-depressant and creates a feeling of well being and mild euphoria. It reduces anxiety connected with sex, helping calm emotions that block arousal.

Rose Side Effects: None noted

Sandalwood (Santalum album):

Sandalwood is one of the few fragrances that is equally popular among men and women. It’s uplifting scent has been considered an aphrodisiac since ancient times. Its aromatherapy is often used to treat depression and emotional sexual dysfunction. A mild yang oil, it is emollient (softening, soothing to the skin), tonic and sedative. One of the most useful oils for the skin. A classic choice for dry and dehydrated skin. It relieves itching and inflammation, and as a mild astringent can also profit those with oily skin as well.

Sandalwood oil has a sweet-woody, warm, balsamic aroma that improves with age. The essential oil blends wonderfully with most oils, especially rose, lavender, neroli and bergamot. Sandalwood oil is also an excellent cleansing, astringent addition to massage and facial oils, bath oils, aftershaves, lotions and creams.

Oat straw (Avena sativa):

Oat straw is a very sustaining herb, as it is a nervine it is calming to the nervous system. So this is a good Aphrodisiac if being highly strung is the dampener to your libido. Oat straw stimulates the circulation of free testosterone, a hormone that is stimulating to the male sexual libido, for this reason it is used as a sexual stimulant by men. A tonic to the nervous system, and good for recovering from exhaustion, so this is a good aphrodisiac for women too, if emotional exhaustion is your block to love making.

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale):

Legendary jasmine is a sensual delight, and is one of the principal oils used in perfumes and ointments for dry sensitive skin. In aromatherapy, jasmine absolute oil is used to uplift the spirits in cases of apathy, depression, menopausal disorders, and lack of confidence. A legendary aphrodisiac, jasmine’s sweet scent has a profound effect on frigidity and impotence. It can relax the mother and help relieve the pain of childbirth and is thought to increase breastmilk. Jasmine has a very powerful fragrance with a full, rich, honey-like sweetness. Jasmine oil works primarily on the emotional level as an anti-depressant and produces a feeling of optimism, confidence, and euphoria. It is most useful in cases of apathy or listlessness.

Others: Borage seed oil and evening primrose oil are effective aphrodisiacs when used as massaging oils. They have the properties that improve blood circulation towards the genitals. Chrysanthemum, lovage and spiny panax are helpful as womens’ aphrodisiacs. They increase the synthesis of nitric oxide that improve blood circulation towards the genitals.

Tags: herbal Aphrodisiacs, herbal aphrodisiacs for men

Category: HERBAL REMEDIES