A low libido can be a challenging for women. Certain herbs may help with providing sexual enhancement. Here are 14 herbs to help increase your libido.
reviews
reviews
Low libido is one of the most common sexual dysfunctions for women. It can be caused by anything from hormonal changes to stress and anxiety.
An active sex life is an important part of a healthy relationship. It's also beneficial to our physical and mental well-being.
Some natural herbs that help with libido include ginkgo, shatavari, and ginseng.
Some herbs can be unsafe at high doses. Consult with a doctor before taking one.
Other methods for boosting libido include changing your diet, exercising, and cutting out smoking and drinking.
One solution to consider for a low sex-drive are herbs. Research has found many of them can be effective natural sex enhancers for women.
Here's what to know about which herbs can increase female libido and other natural ways to boost sex drive.
Part of gaining back your desire for sex is understanding how to improve female sex drive naturally, and herbs are a great place to start.
Herbs come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, dried leaves, and powder. Here are 14 that may help increase female libido.
Ginkgo has ancient roots and has been used for various medicinal purposes for thousands of years.
In modern times, standardized Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) is made from dried green leaves. The uses include treating blood disorders and memory loss.
Ginkgo also faculties blood flow, increases nitric oxide, and relaxes the smooth muscle tissue, all making it effective when treating low libido in women.
One study showed promise when treating antidepressant-induced low libido. In the open trial, 84% of participants reported some improvement in sexual dysfunction.
However, another scientific analysis shows that Ginkgo had no effect on low sex drive. It actually showed a placebo effect rather than the effectiveness of treatment.
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is an Ayurvedic herb long used in women's health.
Shatavari naturally increases the hormone prolactin, which is vital to breastfeeding. And the herb is used to reduce menopausal symptoms in premenopausal patients.
One study found that Shatavari may have stress-relieving properties that help increase sex drive along with hormonal support and antioxidative properties.
Ginseng is a herb with plenty of antioxidants that offer a range of health benefits.
Ginseng supplements are often recommended as a first plan of action when treating sexual dysfunction in men. But, more research shows that it can benefit women struggling with low libido, too.
In one study, Ginseng showed to improve low libido in both men and women caused by methadone maintenance.
One of the traditional uses for Maca is to treat low libido. Maca has shown promise when treating antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction.
But, there is a need for more research to show the effectiveness of Maca on females.
One scientific investigation found that the benefits of Maca are overhyped and may not be found.
Ashwagandha is an herb commonly used in India as an aphrodisiac and has properties that help reduce swelling, relax the mind and body, lower blood pressure, and amp up the immune system.
One clinical trial revealed that women who took 600mg a day of Ashwagandha saw an improvement in libido, arousal, and orgasm. It's believed that the herb addresses sexual dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the clitoris.
Saffron is an herb or spice that may be sitting on your kitchen shelf. Some research suggests that saffron is an aphrodisiac and improves sexual desire in women taking antidepressants. More clinical studies are needed to reveal the full potential of saffron.
Tribulus Terrestris is an herbal supplement that's known for enhancing energy and supporting mood.
One study shows that Tribulus Terrestris extract was effective when treating a lack of sexual interest and arousal disorder.
Tribulus Terrestris works because it stimulates androgen receptors which helps the body become more responsive to sexual hormones.
Fenugreek is an ingredient in some spice blends, foods, and beverages, but it has far more functions than that.
Fenugreek works as an antioxidant and also has health benefits, including treating diabetes and improving milk production in women that are breastfeeding.
Most research suggesting that fenugreek helps low libido is male-focused. But fenugreek shows potential as one of the herbs to increase libido in females.
Epimedium, otherwise known as horny goat weed, was named because Chinese goat farmers discovered its potent effects on their livestock.
Horny goat weed extract has been used to improve sexual dysfunction and treat menstrual cramps, osteoporosis, and potentially heart disease.
While various sources conclude that it can improve libido, scientific studies and trials on the effects of epimedium on human libido are limited, especially in women.
As one of the oldest aphrodisiacs, Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has been traditionally used for many ailments.
Some evidence indicates that Damiana has the potential for improving sexual desire.
However, it should be noted that Damiana may not be safe if taken in high doses. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking it.
Tongkat Ali, or longack, is another ancient herb that's been used for centuries to address a lack of sexual desire.
While men traditionally use Tongkat ali, the herb has shown potential for balancing hormone levels and reducing stress and tension in women.
In one pilot study, Tongkat Ali elevated age-related symptoms and helped balance hormones. Hormonal imbalance can sometimes be a cause of low libido.
Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) is a small shrub in the Mediterranean region that produces red berries.
Chasteberry has become a regularly used supplement for women to increase fertility and decrease premenstrual symptoms, including breast pain.
Prominent health websites have also noted that it can help balance hormones, which may help with increasing low libido.
Many men and women use fennel seed as an aphrodisiac that enhances sex drive and maintains libido in women and men.
In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, post-menopausal women saw an improvement in sexual satisfaction when using a fennel vaginal cream.
Fennel seed helps oxygen reach the brain and is an excellent source of libido-boosting nutrients, including manganese, calcium, iron, and fiber.
Suma root has been used as traditional medicine in Brazil for numerous ailments such as stress and fatigue.
While more testing on humans is needed, one study found that suma root boosted sex hormone levels in both male and female mice.
Herbs may not work for everyone. Sometimes you might need a little more to accelerate your sexual desire.
Studies suggest that women can benefit sexually from exercise. A good workout activates a woman's hormones, neurotransmitters, and autonomic nervous system.
It also maintains an enzyme that increases blood flow to the genitals and arousal.
One case-control study showed that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) saw an increase in libido when exercise was introduced to their lifestyle.
Taking a nutritional approach to increase your sex drive may mean changing what you eat.
In one study, young women reported an improvement in their sex life after consuming an apple a day. Other foods that may boost female libido include:
Some use cigarettes and alcohol to relieve stress. In reality, both substances can worsen anxiety and tension.
On top of that, the chemicals in cigarettes have been shown to negatively impact testosterone and estrogen, which play a huge role in sexual desire.
When it comes to alcohol, studies show that consuming too much can decrease sexual stimulation, vaginal lubrication, and difficulty achieving orgasm.
However, a glass of wine has been shown to improve sexual function. Just avoid overconsumption.
Acupuncture is a treatment that has no serious side effects and is proven to treat low libido in women.
Another upside to acupuncture is that it can reduce stress, tension, and even insomnia, improving the desire for sex.
Studies suggest massages offer some of the same benefits if needles aren't your thing.
A soft-touch massage from your partner can relieve some daily stress and potentially rev up your sex drive.
Medications that treat cancer, depression, and other ailments may cause sexual low libido in women. Some that can potentially cause low sex-drive include:
Discuss with your doctor ways to manage or adjust the dosage. Do not stop taking medication until you consult with your personal physician.
Low libido can sometimes be a more serious medical issue, such as female sexual arousal disorder
A low sex drive can also be a red flag for an underlying condition. Nonsexual diseases that can cause low libido include:
A doctor can help diagnose your libido issues. They can test your hormone levels and recommend natural ways to increase sex drive.
Yoga offers women numerous benefits to overall health, including sexual health.
One study found that practicing yoga increased libido, arousal, orgasm, and bedroom satisfaction.
Some women find that therapy helps address the root causes of the lack of interest in sex, such as poor body image, a history of abuse, and depression.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) are proven ways for women to find the psychological reason behind their sexual dysfunction.
Low libido is a common sexual dysfunction that affects many women. Understanding how to boost sex drive naturally can help you take back control of your sexual health.
Herbs such as ashwagandha and tribulus terrestris can be effective in boosting sex drive. Supplements such as Libido Booster for Women contain these and other herbs that may help with low libido.
Along with herbs, diet changes, exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, acupuncture, and yoga are also good natural ways to improve your sexual health.
Speaking with a doctor can help you determine the best treatment plan for restoring your sex drive.
Our team has over a decade of experience in the sexual wellness field and are experts in sexual dysfunctions, like premature ejaculation. We help couples and individuals better understand treatment options available for different types of sexual needs and educate the public on all things related to intimacy. All of our authored content is medically reviewed for accuracy and reliability.
Absorption Pharmaceuticals LLC (Promescent) has strict informational citing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic or research institutions, medical associations, and medical experts. We attempt to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references and only citing trustworthy sources. Each article is reviewed, written, and updated by Medical Professionals or authoritative Experts in a specific, related field of practice. You can find out more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
Nguyen T, Alzahrani T. Ginkgo Biloba. [Updated 2022 Jul 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Cohen AJ, Bartlik B. Ginkgo biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. J Sex Marital Ther. 1998 Apr-Jun;24(2):139-43. doi: 10.1080/00926239808404927. PMID: 9611693. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Kang BJ, Lee SJ, Kim MD, Cho MJ. A placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of Ginkgo biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2002 Aug;17(6):279-84. doi: 10.1002/hup.409. PMID: 12404672. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Alok S, Jain SK, Verma A, Kumar M, Mahor A, Sabharwal M. Plant profile, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari): A review. Asian Pac J Trop Dis. 2013 Jun;3(3):242–51. doi: 10.1016/S2222-1808(13)60049-3. PMCID: PMC4027291. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
O'Leary MF, Jackman SR, Sabou VR, Campbell MI, Tang JCY, Dutton J, Bowtell JL. Shatavari Supplementation in Postmenopausal Women Improves Handgrip Strength and Increases Vastus lateralis Myosin Regulatory Light Chain Phosphorylation but Does Not Alter Markers of Bone Turnover. Nutrients. 2021 Nov 27;13(12):4282. doi: 10.3390/nu13124282. PMID: 34959836; PMCID: PMC8708006. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Pandey AK, Gupta A, Tiwari M, Prasad S, Pandey AN, Yadav PK, Sharma A, Sahu K, Asrafuzzaman S, Vengayil DT, Shrivastav TG, Chaube SK. Impact of stress on female reproductive health disorders: Possible beneficial effects of shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). Biomed Pharmacother. 2018 Jul;103:46-49. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.04.003. Epub 2018 Apr 7. PMID: 29635127. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Leung KW, Wong AS. Ginseng and male reproductive function. Spermatogenesis. 2013 Jul 1;3(3):e26391. doi: 10.4161/spmg.26391. Epub 2013 Sep 13. PMID: 24381805; PMCID: PMC3861174. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Murphy LL, Lee TJ. Ginseng, sex behavior, and nitric oxide. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2002 May;962:372-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2002.tb04081.x. PMID: 12076988. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Farnia V, Alikhani M, Ebrahimi A, Golshani S, Sadeghi Bahmani D, Brand S. Ginseng treatment improves the sexual side effects of methadone maintenance treatment. Psychiatry Res. 2019 Jun;276:142-150. doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.05.004. Epub 2019 May 2. PMID: 31082749. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Gonzales GF. Ethnobiology and Ethnopharmacology of Lepidium meyenii (Maca), a Plant from the Peruvian Highlands. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:193496. doi: 10.1155/2012/193496. Epub 2011 Oct 2. PMID: 21977053; PMCID: PMC3184420. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Dording CM, Schettler PJ, Dalton ED, Parkin SR, Walker RS, Fehling KB, Fava M, Mischoulon D. A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of maca root as treatment for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction in women. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015:949036. doi: 10.1155/2015/949036. Epub 2015 Apr 14. PMID: 25954318; PMCID: PMC4411442. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Beharry S, Heinrich M. Is the hype around the reproductive health claims of maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) justified? J Ethnopharmacol. 2018 Jan 30;211:126-170. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.08.003. Epub 2017 Aug 12. PMID: 28811221. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Mikulska P, Malinowska M, Ignacyk M, Szustowski P, Nowak J, Pesta K, Szeląg M, Szklanny D, Judasz E, Kaczmarek G, Ejiohuo OP, Paczkowska-Walendowska M, Gościniak A, Cielecka-Piontek J. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)-Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review. Pharmaceutics. 2023 Mar 24;15(4):1057. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041057. PMID: 37111543; PMCID: PMC10147008. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Dongre S, Langade D, Bhattacharyya S. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:284154. doi: 10.1155/2015/284154. Epub 2015 Oct 4. PMID: 26504795; PMCID: PMC4609357. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Kashani L, Raisi F, Saroukhani S, Sohrabi H, Modabbernia A, Nasehi AA, Jamshidi A, Ashrafi M, Mansouri P, Ghaeli P, Akhondzadeh S. Saffron for treatment of fluoxetine-induced sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2013 Jan;28(1):54-60. doi: 10.1002/hup.2282. Epub 2012 Dec 20. PMID: 23280545. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Akhtari E, Raisi F, Keshavarz M, Hosseini H, Sohrabvand F, Bioos S, Kamalinejad M, Ghobadi A. Tribulus terrestris for treatment of sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo - controlled study. Daru. 2014 Apr 28;22(1):40. doi: 10.1186/2008-2231-22-40. PMID: 24773615; PMCID: PMC4045980. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Rao A, Steels E, Beccaria G, Inder WJ, Vitetta L. Influence of a Specialized Trigonella foenum-graecum Seed Extract (Libifem), on Testosterone, Estradiol and Sexual Function in Healthy Menstruating Women, a Randomised Placebo Controlled Study. Phytother Res. 2015 Aug;29(8):1123-30. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5355. Epub 2015 Apr 24. PMID: 25914334. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Albaker WI. Fenugreek and Its Effects on Muscle Performance: A Systematic Review. J Pers Med. 2023 Feb 27;13(3):427. doi: 10.3390/jpm13030427. PMID: 36983608; PMCID: PMC10054907. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012-. Horny Goat Weed. [Updated 2022 Aug 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK583203/. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Szewczyk K, Zidorn C. Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and bioactivity of the genus Turnera (Passifloraceae) with a focus on damiana--Turnera diffusa. J Ethnopharmacol. 2014 Mar 28;152(3):424-43. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.01.019. Epub 2014 Jan 24. PMID: 24468305. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Rehman SU, Choe K, Yoo HH. Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules. 2016 Mar 10;21(3):331. doi: 10.3390/molecules21030331. PMID: 26978330; PMCID: PMC6274257. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Talbott SM, Talbott JA, George A, Pugh M. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2013 May 26;10(1):28. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-10-28. PMID: 23705671; PMCID: PMC3669033. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Henkel RR, Wang R, Bassett SH, Chen T, Liu N, Zhu Y, Tambi MI. Tongkat Ali as a potential herbal supplement for physically active male and female seniors--a pilot study. Phytother Res. 2014 Apr;28(4):544-50. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5017. Epub 2013 Jun 11. PMID: 23754792. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
"Chasteberry - National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health." Nccih.nih.gov, 2023, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/chasteberry. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Abedi P, Najafian M, Yaralizadeh M, Namjoyan F. Effect of fennel vaginal cream on sexual function in postmenopausal women: A double blind randomized controlled trial. J Med Life. 2018 Jan-Mar;11(1):24-28. PMID: 29696061; PMCID: PMC5909942. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Oshima M, Gu Y. Pfaffia paniculata-induced changes in plasma estradiol-17beta, progesterone and testosterone levels in mice. J Reprod Dev. 2003 Apr;49(2):175-80. doi: 10.1262/jrd.49.175. PMID: 14967943. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Hamilton LD, Fogle EA, Meston CM. The roles of testosterone and alpha-amylase in exercise-induced sexual arousal in women. J Sex Med. 2008 Apr;5(4):845-853. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2007.00751.x. Epub 2008 Jan 21. Erratum in: J Sex Med. 2010 Nov;7(11):3803. PMID: 18221285; PMCID: PMC2978974. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Lara LA, Ramos FK, Kogure GS, Costa RS, Silva de Sá MF, Ferriani RA, dos Reis RM. Impact of Physical Resistance Training on the Sexual Function of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Sex Med. 2015 Jul;12(7):1584-90. doi: 10.1111/jsm.12909. Epub 2015 May 18. PMID: 25982537. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Cai T, Gacci M, Mattivi F, Mondaini N, Migno S, Boddi V, Gacci P, Detti B, Gontero P, Chiodini S, Mereu L, Tateo S, Mazzoli S, Malossini G, Bartoletti R. Apple consumption is related to better sexual quality of life in young women. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2014 Jul;290(1):93-8. doi: 10.1007/s00404-014-3168-x. Epub 2014 Feb 12. PMID: 24518938. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Fassnacht M, Arlt W, Bancos I, Dralle H, Newell-Price J, Sahdev A, Tabarin A, Terzolo M, Tsagarakis S, Dekkers OM. Management of adrenal incidentalomas: European Society of Endocrinology Clinical Practice Guideline in collaboration with the European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors. Eur J Endocrinol. 2016 Aug;175(2):G1-G34. doi: 10.1530/EJE-16-0467. PMID: 27390021. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Salari N, Hasheminezhad R, Almasi A, Hemmati M, Shohaimi S, Akbari H, Mohammadi M. The risk of sexual dysfunction associated with alcohol consumption in women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health. 2023 May 2;23(1):213. doi: 10.1186/s12905-023-02400-5. PMID: 37131197; PMCID: PMC10155345. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Mondaini N, Cai T, Gontero P, Gavazzi A, Lombardi G, Boddi V, Bartoletti R. Regular moderate intake of red wine is linked to a better women's sexual health. J Sex Med. 2009 Oct;6(10):2772-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01393.x. Epub 2009 Jul 21. PMID: 19627470. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Brotto LA, Krychman M, Jacobson P. Eastern approaches for enhancing women's sexuality: mindfulness, acupuncture, and yoga (CME). J Sex Med. 2008 Dec;5(12):2741-8; quiz 2749. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.01071.x. PMID: 19090937. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Holt-Lunstad J, Birmingham WA, Light KC. Influence of a "warm touch" support enhancement intervention among married couples on ambulatory blood pressure, oxytocin, alpha amylase, and cortisol. Psychosom Med. 2008 Nov;70(9):976-85. doi: 10.1097/PSY.0b013e318187aef7. Epub 2008 Oct 8. PMID: 18842740. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Higgins A, Nash M, Lynch AM. Antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction: impact, effects, and treatment. Drug Healthc Patient Saf. 2010;2:141-50. doi: 10.2147/DHPS.S7634. Epub 2010 Sep 9. PMID: 21701626; PMCID: PMC3108697. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Park YW, Kim Y, Lee JH. Antipsychotic-induced sexual dysfunction and its management. World J Mens Health. 2012 Dec;30(3):153-9. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.2012.30.3.153. Epub 2012 Dec 27. PMID: 23596605; PMCID: PMC3623530. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Pettigrew JA, Novick AM. Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women: Physiology, Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2021 Nov;66(6):740-748. doi: 10.1111/jmwh.13283. Epub 2021 Sep 12. PMID: 34510696; PMCID: PMC8673442. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Montgomery KA. Sexual desire disorders. Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2008 Jun;5(6):50-5. PMID: 19727285; PMCID: PMC2695750. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Finley N. Lifestyle Choices Can Augment Female Sexual Well-Being. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2017 Nov 9;12(1):38-41. doi: 10.1177/1559827617740823. PMID: 30283244; PMCID: PMC6125014. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
Dhikav V, Karmarkar G, Gupta R, Verma M, Gupta R, Gupta S, Anand KS. Yoga in female sexual functions. J Sex Med. 2010 Feb;7(2 Pt 2):964-70. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01580.x. Epub 2009 Nov 12. PMID: 19912493. Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023.
reviews
Your Cart Is Empty
