Do you know what causes low libido?

Age, stress, and hormonal changes are the most common culprits of reduced sexual desire in both men and women. Other reasons for low libido include chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease and medications like antidepressants and antipsychotics.

The good news is there are simple lifestyle changes that can help improve an individual’s sex drive. Losing weight, eating right, and getting enough sleep can promote overall health, directly affecting one’s libido.

There are also natural libido supplements and prescribed medications that can help address the problem. That being said, some people prefer the natural route because they’re concerned about experiencing side effects from prescription drugs.

If you’re one of them, you’re in luck. Here, we’ll talk about how certain foods and supplements can boost your libido.

How Natural Libido Supplements Work

Supplements that act as natural Viagra work in different ways. Some are hormone boosters, raising testosterone levels.

Others enhance sexual desire, and some herbs increase nitric oxide production. Take note that nitric oxide is an essential compound for prolonged erection. Not only does it help penile muscles relax, but it also increases blood flow.

There are also natural libido supplements that act as precursors to sex hormones. That means the body uses these supplements’ active compounds to produce estrogen and testosterone.

Keep in mind that not all libido-boosting supplements are for men. Some such as Tribulus terrestris and maca can help raise libido in both men and women.

What Are Some Common Natural Libido Boosters?

Are you looking for a natural erectile dysfunction treatment? Or perhaps you’re postmenopausal and need something to increase your sex drive?

Here are some natural supplements and foods that claim to ease libido issues in men and women.

1. Tribulus

Also known as puncture vine, Tribulus is a popular TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) and Ayurvedic treatment.

In women, it can boost sex drive by heightening desire, improving lubrication, and increasing female sensitivity. For men, puncture vine may not be an effective erectile dysfunction treatment, as there are varying results from different studies.

There’s also not much evidence it can increase testosterone levels. In terms of raising libido levels, though, one study shows that it does have aphrodisiac properties.

2. Fenugreek

Another famous Ayurvedic medicine for boosting libido, fenugreek, can increase sexual arousal. Some men also report experiencing more orgasms with regular fenugreek supplement intake.

Researchers can’t say for sure if it’s the fenugreek compounds that raise libido or the supplement’s other components. Some brands also contain nutrients such as zinc and magnesium that support male fertility.

For women with low sex drive, daily consumption of fenugreek extract may help increase their sexual desire and arousal response. It’s worth noting, though, that fenugreek supplements aren’t for everyone. These can interact with blood thinners, as well as some cancer medications.

Some users also experience stomach upset after taking fenugreek supplements. Consider talking to your doctor first if you plan to try fenugreek products.

3. Yohimbe

Yohimbe or yohimbine comes from the bark of an evergreen tree found in central Africa. Traditionally, it is used to improve sexual performance.

As a dietary supplement, yohimbine has a range of uses. Bodybuilders use it to promote fat loss, while those who have erectile dysfunction use it to improve symptoms. It is available online and in health food stores as tablets and capsules.

One reason healthcare professionals caution against taking Yohimbe is the potential side effects. Besides gastrointestinal distress, it can also increase heart rate and blood pressure.

Again, before taking yohimbine, it’s best to consult your doctor. You can also try supplement-free methods first, such as staying active, quitting cigarettes, and mastering edging. There are tons of tips and advice online if you need more information on how to increase sex stamina without medicine.

4. Red Ginseng

Chinese and Korean ginseng can help fight off stress, clear the mind, and increase sex drive, especially for men.

Those with erectile dysfunction can take red ginseng thrice a week or as directed by a doctor. In women, the results from studies are inconsistent, but some report increased sexual drive with regular use.

It’s advisable to check with a pharmacist to ensure the brand you plan to take doesn’t contain impurities that might be harmful. Like fenugreek, red ginseng may also interact with blood-thinning medications. You should also note that ginseng may cause side effects, including gastrointestinal upset and headaches.

5. Maca

From powders to capsules to liquid extracts and more, there are tons of maca products available in the market today.

Men and women can take maca to increase their sex drive and for fertility support. Some users consume maca to counteract the libido-lowering effects of antidepressant drugs. It can also help men with mild erectile dysfunction.

The great thing about maca is it’s generally safe to take. Besides being a good source of carbs, it is low fat and rich in vitamin C and essential minerals like iron and copper.

Maca can also help menopausal women by alleviating symptoms such as hot flashes and interrupted sleep. There are also studies on its effects in reducing prostate size.

Some Notes Before Trying Supplements

Since the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, be sure to ask your doctor’s advice before taking natural libido boosters.

The cause of your low libido might be related to a physical issue. Your healthcare provider should rule this out or confirm it to come up with the best treatment plan.

For example, if your low sex drive is stress-related, your doctor might not prescribe meds. He or she could recommend stress-relief activities like meditation, yoga, etc.

Do You Need More Libido-Enhancing Tips?

Now that you know more about natural libido supplements, which ones are you thinking of trying?

If you have concerns or questions about libido boosters, be sure to ask your doctor. You can also find tips and advice on improving your sex drive by checking our other posts.

Did you like this article? If yes, don’t forget to browse our site for more interesting content.