Unable to perform in the bedroom? Everyday stress can take a toll, and intimacy loses its spot on your list of priorities. Still, physical intimacy is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. If you don’t give it the importance it deserves, you may miss a fantastic way to reconnect with your partner.
It’s totally normal to go through periods where libido drops. Sexual dysfunction is more common than we think, affecting 43% of women and 31% of men. The good news is that nature has many foods, herbs, and supplements to provide a much-needed boost during these dips.
For centuries, certain foods and substances have been thought to act as aphrodisiacs, the fancy term for foods and supplements that help increase libido, named after the goddess Aphrodite. They’re thought to help in a variety of ways, including reducing stress, increasing blood flow, or positively affecting neurotransmitters (our brain’s messengers), all of which can improve libido.
If you want a boost in the bedroom, consider trying one of these 15 natural aphrodisiacs. For medical issues, it’s always best to speak to your doctor before taking any of these natural substances.
1. Maca
Maca is a sweet root vegetable often called ‘Peruvian Viagra’. It is believed to boost libido if you consume it daily in doses of 1-5 to 3.5 grams for 2-12 weeks. Maca root is rich in magnesium and fiber, which helps enhance stamina and overall well-being.
In South America, it’s traditionally used to enhance fertility. According to a study, Maca root improves low desire that occurs due to the use of antidepressant medications. However, further studies are needed to determine its safety and effectiveness.
2. Oysters
Oysters have long been regarded as natural aphrodisiacs because of their high zinc content, which supports male health. An 85-gram serving of raw oysters contains 33 milligrams of zinc—above and beyond the recommended daily intake.
Zinc is necessary for normal sperm function and fertilization. Zinc deficiency has been linked to poor sperm quality, low testosterone levels, and male infertility. This supports the idea that oysters may have aphrodisiac properties. Zinc is also vital for regulating dopamine levels (important for mood), a neurotransmitter that plays a role in male sexual health.
3. Pomegranate
Pomegranate juice has been shown to increase testosterone levels, which can improve desire and mood. Researchers believe that the high antioxidant content in foods like pomegranates can reduce oxidative stress and improve blood flow to vital organs by dilating blood vessels. Pomegranate seeds are also among aphrodisiac foods.
4. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, a stimulant similar to caffeine, which can improve mood. Chocolate also has phenethylamine, which, along with theobromine, can trigger the release of endorphins and dopamine (happy hormones).
Phenethylamine is also a stimulant associated with feelings of love. So, consuming more chocolate may help you feel more affectionate towards your partner, leading to increased intimacy.
5. Pistachios
Pistachios may offer several health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, helping with weight management, and reducing the risk of heart disease. They may also help with male dysfunction.
In one small study, men who ate 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of pistachios daily for three weeks had improved blood flow and firmness. Experts believe this may be due to pistachios’ ability to improve cholesterol and enhance blood flow.
6. Ginseng
Ginseng is a plant root used as a dietary supplement, aphrodisiac, and in Chinese medicine. It is believed to trigger the release of nitric oxide (NO), which helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow to essential organs (yes, those ones, too). Ginseng likely impacts the central nervous system and influences hormone levels. You can enjoy ginseng by drinking tea and using fresh or dried root powder.
7. Fenugreek
Fenugreek is an annual plant with seeds commonly used in South Asian cooking. It contains compounds that the body can use to produce estrogen and testosterone. In a small study of women with low drives, those who took 500 milligrams of fenugreek extract daily showed a significant increase in arousal and desire. Another small study revealed that men who took 600 mg of fenugreek extract daily for six weeks reported increased arousal and more frequent or**sms.
8. Saffron
Saffron is a spice from the Crocus sativus flower, native to Southwest Asia, and one of the most expensive spices by weight. It is also known for its potential aphrodisiac effects, particularly in people taking antidepressants.
In one study, men who took 30 mg of saffron daily for four weeks saw more significant improvements in organ function compared to a placebo group. Another study of women found higher arousal and increased lubrication in those taking saffron versus a placebo.
9. Rose
For centuries, roses have been a symbol of love and affection, but there’s actually some proof behind the symbolism. As a nerve tonic, the flower soothes the central nervous system, helping to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
When applied to the skin or inhaled, rose can also boost serotonin and dopamine, our “feel-good” hormones. Studies suggest rose oil may act as an aphrodisiac in people with depression linked to low serotonin levels.
10. Ginger
Ginger helps with circulation, has a history of use for male enhancement, and some studies suggest it may lower blood pressure, possibly improving intimate functions. A 2023 study in the Journal of Sex Research found that consuming ginger increased arousal in both men and women.
Another study showed that women who took ginger four times a week experienced similar benefits.
11. Red Wine
Moderate red wine consumption may improve intimate functions in both men and women. One study revealed that women who drank one to two glasses of red wine daily had improved function.
Researchers believe alcohol may boost arousal. However, they also warned of increased risk-taking with alcohol consumption, which could lead to sexually transmitted diseases or unwanted pregnancy.
12. Strawberries
In Greek mythology, strawberries are said to have come from Aphrodite’s heart-shaped tears when she learned of her lover’s death.
Strawberries are full of nutrients that can improve one’s intimate connections. They are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant important for producing hormones like oxytocin, linked to arousal.
13. Avocado
Avocados are powerhouse fruits with numerous health benefits, including enhancing fertility. They contain vitamins B9, B6, potassium, and C. Most of the benefits associated with avocados are due to vitamin B9 or folic acid, which helps maintain health in many ways.
However, vitamin E is the star of sexual health. Half an avocado provides about 10% of the daily recommended dose of vitamin E, which supports fertility in both men and women.
Vitamin E is known as the intimacy vitamin due to its ability to promote the production of important hormones. In addition to this, avocados are high in B vitamins, which help with energy and vitality.
14. Ashwagandha
The Indian herbal remedy ashwagandha shows potential as a natural “female Viagra,” like the medication used for male dysfunction. Studies indicate it may help with dysfunction in both women and men.
Ashwagandha is also thought to have medicinal benefits for various conditions and acts as an aphrodisiac.
15. Gingko Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is widely gaining attention as a herbal supplement from the leaves of the Ginkgo tree. It helps increase desire by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow, especially to the genital area, so you feel more aroused and responsive.
Another way it benefits libido is that it might help ease performance anxiety, allowing the enjoyment of intimate moments in full swing. However, there is mixed evidence in this regard.
55 Psychological Facts About Guys in Love You Might Not Know
Want to learn if a man is smitten with someone? Read these interesting love facts about guys, and you may be able to figure out his feelings. Some of these boy facts about love might surprise you!
55 Unmistakable Signs He’s Falling Head Over Heels
27 Magnetic Psychological Facts About Attraction You Might Not Know
Patterns continue to emerge around the ways in which attraction works. With the impact of cultural norms, beauty standards, and advances in neuroscience, this post explains some of the psychology behind it all.
27 Magnetic Psychological Facts About Attraction You Might Not Know
15 Key Questions for Strengthening a Relationship
So, whether you’re newly coupled or have been together for decades, get ready for a question-inspired adventure! These prompts are designed to ignite meaningful conversations, laughter, and perhaps even surprising revelations that strengthen your relationship.
15 Key Questions for Strengthening a Relationship
Aqsa is a passionate writer who loves spending her free time jotting down her thoughts. But that’s not all. She is a devoted mom to two boys and a skilled pharmacist specializing in hematology. When she’s not running after her energetic kids, you can find her lost in a good book or writing beautiful words. A nature lover at heart, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, staying active, and always seeking ways to learn new things.
Aqsa is a passionate writer who loves spending her free time jotting down her thoughts. But that's not all. She is a devoted mom to two boys and a skilled pharmacist specializing in hematology. When she's not running after her energetic kids, you can find her lost in a good book or writing beautiful words. A nature lover at heart, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, staying active, and always seeking ways to learn new things.
