Natural Aphrodisiacs for Women

Given the recent news about a drug company attempting to get permission to market a new “female Viagra” product to women, we thought it might be helpful to review natural cures for lack of libido. Most people view claims for aphrodisiacs with a good deal of skepticism, as they should. But amazingly enough, some natural products do have reputations for enhancing sexual desire in both men and women.

Below are the top contenders:

1. Arginine. Arginine is an amino acid found in meat, nuts, eggs, coconut milk and cheese, has been found as a safe and effective route to increase the amount of growth hormone (GH) released from the pituitary gland that helps to retard many aspects of aging. As a natural female aphrodisiac, Arginine, along with other supplements, enhances sexual desire, can reduce vaginal dryness, increase the frequency of intercourse and orgasm and even improve clitoral sensation and sexual arousal, thus giving a boost to the libido.


2. Chocolate. Favored by the Aztec gods, chocolate helps the release of serotonin that is responsible for feelings of relaxation and pleasure. Dark chocolate is preferable as it contains a higher level of cocoa that is supposed to be more effective. It provides a boost to some good, old-fashioned loving and has the additional advantage of being high in magnesium and antioxidants.

3. Damiana. Damiana has been found to contain alkaloids that directly stimulate the sex organs and is also known for its ability to tone the mucous membranes of reproductive organs. Mexican women used to drink an infusion of the herb a couple of hours before bed, to get aroused for their men. Thus it acts as a sexual stimulant. It not only increases the possibility of reaching orgasm but also increases its intensity and betters sexual performance. It is also known to be helpful for the digestive system. It has been helpful in female physiological/hormonal areas such as irritability, headache and acne, and menstrual difficulties, insufficient flow or delayed menstruation in adolescent girls.

4. Fenugreek. Fenugreek is a medicinal plant, has aromatic seeds which were used extensively by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Harem women used it as part of their staple diet, to increase the size and roundness of their breasts. It is also reportedly used in some herbal products that claim ‘bust enhancement’ properties. It is sometimes recommended to nursing mothers to improve their milk supply. It aids in the synthesis of various sex hormones and has estrogenic effects. The seeds have a maple syrup-like odor, and can freshen breath, making somebody more likely to want to get closer to you!

5. Ginger. A phallic-shaped root, ginger has sexual links by virtue of its appearance, and is known to increase blood circulation to the extremities. It also possesses anti-bloating properties that can help you avoid the postprandial belly. Ginkgo Biloba is a tree, the leaf of which is highly popular for its antioxidant properties, as well as for improving circulation and enhancing memory.

6. Ginseng. Ginseng is a root said to aid sexual desire, satisfaction and orgasm and is effective as a natural aphrodisiac for women by having an effect on the dopamine system as well. It endows a woman with youthful vigor and plays a significant role in fertility.

7. Horny Goat Weed. Horny Goat Weed lives up to its name! A leafy plant growing in the wild, higher altitudes, it is said to provide a boost to the libido and so is useful as a natural aphrodisiac for women.

8. Indole-3-Carbinol. Aanaturally occurring phytonutrient found in cruciferous vegetables, Indole-3-Carbinol helps in removing excess estrogen from the body, a balance of which is essential for a healthy libido in women.

9. Litchi. Also called Wolfberry, Litchi is a tangy fruit known to have rejuvenating effects on sexuality and fertility. It can be dried and prepared as a tea. Scientific studies indicate that polysaccharides found in this fruit, protect the female sex organs in addition to protection of sexual tissue, eliminate fatigue, increase adaptability to exercise load and enhance resistance. It is also reported to have anti-aging properties.

10. Maca. A root/vegetable found in Peru, Maca has been traditionally used as a natural female aphrodisiac to increase energy, vitality, stamina and endurance in athletes and also to promote mental clarity and for fertility. It has also been used to treat female menstrual irregularities and hormone imbalances like menopause and perimenopause. Those with menstrual irregularities have experienced greater consistency, while in women, hot flashes, mood swings and other associated perimenopause and menopause symptoms, have reduced drastically.