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What Is the Best Supplement for Women's Libido? 13 Natural Remedies

Reviewed on 5/26/2022
What Is the Best Supplement for Women's Libido
Learn about 13 vitamins and herbs that may help improve female libido

Low libido in women can be caused by a wide range of factors such as low estrogen levels, menopause, pregnancy, stress, certain medications, underlying health conditions, and relationship issues.

While there is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of supplements to treat low libido, some women may benefit from certain vitamins and herbs.

13 Natural Remedies to Improve Libido in Women

  1. Essential fatty acids: Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, are beneficial for sexual health in addition to overall health. Essential fatty acids affect how the body converts food into energy, as well as increases physical performance and brain function. All these factors can contribute to improved sex drive.
  2. DHEA: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that is produced naturally by the adrenal glands and metabolized in the body to create estrogen and testosterone. According to one study, DHEA may play a role in increasing sex drive, arousal, and lubrication in older infertile women. However, more research is required regarding the effectiveness of DHEA in treating low libido in women.
  3. Zinc: Studies have shown that zinc supplementation may enhance sexual desire, arousal, pleasure, and vaginal wetness during intercourse, as well as the total sexual function score. Zinc supplementation may also boost testosterone levels and sexual performance in postmenopausal women. Further research is needed, however, to determine the effect of zinc on testosterone and sexual function.
  4. Soy: Soy and soy products may improve libido in women. While there is no definitive proof that soy increases estrogen levels, preliminary research suggests that it does.
  5. Fenugreek: Fenugreek is used as an herb in cooking and available in the form of supplements as well. According to some studies, fenugreek may be an effective medication for increasing female sexual desire.
  6. Saffron: Saffron can boost female sexual desire and sexual function. In one study, women who took 30 mg of saffron daily for 4 weeks had greater sexual desire and vaginal lubrication than those who received a placebo.
  7. Apples: Apples may have a beneficial effect on female sexual desire. According to one study, women who ate an apple every day had a higher-quality sex life.
  8. Chocolate: Chocolate causes the release of endorphins in the brain, which are the same chemica;s that are produced during orgasm. Research has shown that consuming chocolate may increase sexual desire.
  9. Maca root: Maca root has developed a reputation as a superfood because it is known to increase physical stamina and strengthen immunity. It is used to treat menopausal hormone imbalances and may boost sexual desire in some women. Maca root is abundant in vitamins and minerals, which can help with digestion and boost energy levels.
  10. Gingko: Gingko is well known for its anti-anxiety properties and has been shown to enhance blood flow. It also aids in the production of nitric oxide and relaxation of smooth muscle tissues, such as those present in female genitalia. 
  11. Ginseng: Ginseng contains anti-inflammatory effects and has been demonstrated to aid the body to improve its immunological response while reducing stress hormones, both of which can help treat low libido in women.
  12. Tribulus terrestris: According to a study done by Brazilian researchers, Tribulus terrestris is a natural supplement that may improve sexual desire, arousal, vaginal lubrication, and orgasm in women.
  13. Kava: Anxiety and tension are two of the most common causes of low libido in both men and women, so anything that helps reduce stress can improve sexual health. Kava is known to reduce stress and anxiety.

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Reviewed on 5/26/2022
References
Image Source: iStock Image

Cleveland Clinic. What Help Is Available for Low Sex Drive in Women? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-help-is-available-for-low-sex-drive-in-women/

Hammerstrom G. Nutritional supplement reported to improve women's sexual function. Stanford Report. 2001. https://news.stanford.edu/news/2001/june6/arginmax.html