9 Natural Viagra Alternatives to Increase Sex Drive

Viagra is a popular medication for erectile dysfunction. Natural Viagra alternatives, such as maca root, oatstraw, fenugreek, and other remedies, can help improve sex drive for both men and women.

While Viagra is effective, many people want to avoid its potential side effects. As a result, they turn to herbal supplements that act as natural Viagra.

Here’s what you need to know.

The most common treatment for erectile dysfunction is sildenafil (Viagra). However, many people prefer natural alternatives to avoid side effects like headaches, back pain, and indigestion.

Luckily, there are natural substitutes for Viagra that come from traditional Asian medicine. These alternatives work in different ways, like enhancing testosterone levels or stimulating the circulatory system. Some even act as general aphrodisiacs, benefiting women as well.

Here are nine popular natural Viagra alternatives:

Maca root: This Peruvian root has been consumed by Incan royalty to boost energy and improve sexual function.

Studies show that taking 1,500 to 3,000 milligrams of maca per day can enhance sexual desire. Results may take eight weeks to become noticeable.

Tribulus: Also known as Gokshur or puncture vine, this plant acts as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. It has a long history as a remedy for sexual impotence.

Taking 1,500 milligrams of tribulus per day can improve erectile dysfunction and increase sex drive for men. Divide the dosage into three 500-milligram parts, taking each after meals.

Oatstraw: Used traditionally to treat insomnia and anxiety, oatstraw has nootropic and calming properties. These properties can indirectly help with sexual and erectile dysfunction related to depression and stress.

Fenugreek: This small plant positively affects estrogen and testosterone production, important hormones for sex drive. It can increase vaginal lubrication and blood flow in women and improve libido in men.

Ginkgo biloba: This herbal supplement can improve the sexual drive of both men and women. It increases blood flow to the genitalia, potentially reducing erectile dysfunction.

Ginseng: Often combined with ginkgo biloba, ginseng has been historically used to boost potency. Research suggests that it works by increasing nitric oxide production, improving blood circulation and relaxing muscles in the penis.

Tongkat ali: Also known as “longjack,” this plant is popular as an aphrodisiac and energy booster in Southeast Asia. It gradually increases sperm concentration and provides other health benefits.

Saffron: This spice has shown potential as an aphrodisiac, improving erectile dysfunction and arousal in men. Women taking saffron also report increased lubrication.

Epimedium extract: Commonly known as “horny goat weed,” this extract can improve testosterone levels and libido. It also has anti-aging and energy-boosting properties.

Can these supplements cause side effects?

Remember that any supplement, even natural ones, can have side effects. Always research any herbal alternatives before trying them.

Additionally, consult a doctor before taking any supplement to determine the appropriate dosage and potential reactions.

QUESTION

Andrologia: "Effect of Lepidium meyenii (MACA) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men."

Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine: "A systematic review of clinical trials on Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) effectiveness on sexual function and its safety."

Clinical Medicine Insights. Women’s Health: "Clinical Assessment of Tribulus terrestris Extract in the Treatment of Female Sexual Dysfunction."

Drugs: "Herbal Dietary Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis."

Hormones and Behavior: "Increasing Women’s Sexual Desire: The Comparative Effectiveness of Estrogens and Androgens."

International Journal of Emergency Medicine: "Dietary Supplements and Herbal Medicine Toxicities-When to Anticipate Them and How to Manage Them."

Maturitas: "Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Tribulus terrestris in Male Sexual Dysfunction-A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial."

Mayo Clinic: "Erectile Dysfunction: Viagra and Other Oral Medications."

Nutrients: "Acute and Chronic Effects of Green Oat (Avena sativa) Extract on Cognitive Function and Mood During a Laboratory Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Humans."

Pharmacognosy Review: "Phytopharmacological Overview of Tribulus terrestris."

Phytotherapy Research: "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."

The Aging Male: The Official Journal of the International Society for the Study of the Aging Male: "Testofen, a Specialised Trigonella foenum-graecum Seed Extract, Reduces Age-Related Symptoms of Androgen Decrease, Increases Testosterone Levels, and Improves Sexual Function in Healthy Aging Males in a Double-Blind Randomised Clinical Study."

The Journal of Sexual Medicine: "The Associations Between Serum Sex Hormones, Erectile Function, and Sex Drive."

The Mental Health Clinician: "Sexual Dysfunction in Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Potential Solutions: A Narrative Literature Review."

Translational Andrology and Urology: "Asian Herbals and Aphrodisiacs Used for Managing ED."