8 Powerful Aphrodisiacs to Boost Your Sexual Arousal

Aphrodisiacs are foods, drinks, and herbs that raise your desire for sex. Strong aphrodisiacs include gingko biloba, wild oats, chocolate, and other substances.

Looking to naturally increase your libido and enhance your sexual pleasure? As you age, it’s common to experience a decrease in your desire for sex. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people turn to aphrodisiacs to boost their sexual arousal. Learn more about what aphrodisiacs are and how they can help you.

Aphrodisiacs are substances that increase your desire for sex. While they work in different ways, some lower stress hormones, increase sex drive hormones, or simply put you in a happy and relaxed mood.

There’s a lot of myth surrounding aphrodisiacs, and not all substances labeled as libido-boosters actually deliver on their claims. While some foods, like chocolate-covered strawberries, are more associated with romance than actual desire, others like gingko biloba and wild oats have been shown to have aphrodisiac effects.

The Causes of Low Libido

Sexual desire fluctuates throughout life. There are various factors that can contribute to a decreased libido, such as age, stress, medical conditions, and hormonal changes. It’s important to note that having erectile dysfunction is not the same as having a low libido. It’s important to consult a doctor if you have ongoing erectile dysfunction or other health conditions that may be affecting your sexual health.

8 Aphrodisiacs You Can Try

There are natural remedies that can help improve sexual dysfunction. Here are 8 aphrodisiacs you can consider:

Gingko Biloba: Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, gingko biloba aids in increasing blood circulation and sexual energy.

Wild Oats: This grain has aphrodisiac effects as it raises testosterone levels and regulates hormones.

Horny Goat Weed: Known for treating sexual and erectile dysfunction, this herb can also balance thyroid hormone levels.

L-Arginine: This amino acid boosts blood flow, helps prevent heart disease, and improves sexual health.

Chocolate: Boosting mood and happiness, chocolate can put you in the mood for sex.

Oysters: Known for increasing sperm count and raising testosterone levels, oysters are beneficial for both men and women’s libido.

Alcohol: While it can lower inhibitions, excessive alcohol consumption can have negative effects on sexual performance.

Strawberries: Rich in Vitamin C, strawberries can give your sex drive a slight boost and help decrease the risk of prostate cancer.

Can You Increase Sexual Desire in Other Ways?

If you’re concerned about your low libido, there are other options to explore. Communication with your partner, managing stress, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and practicing healthy habits can all contribute to a healthier sex drive.

Who Should Avoid Using Aphrodisiacs?

While over-the-counter aphrodisiacs are generally safe, it’s important to use them responsibly. Be cautious if you have a medical condition or if you’re unsure how a particular supplement may affect your body. If you have concerns about low sex drive or erectile dysfunction, consult your doctor to discuss your options.

Source:

• Appalachian State University: "Alcohol and Sex."
• Harvard Health Publishing: "Testosterone — What It Does And Doesn’t Do."
• Health Psychology Open: "Obesity, mental health, and sexual dysfunction: A critical review."
• The Journal of Sexual Medicine: "Chronic stress and sexual function in women."
• Mayo Clinic: "Erectile dysfunction," "Is loss of sex drive normal as men get older?," "Low sex drive in women."
• Penn Medicine: "Food for Your Libido: A Valentine’s Diet to Boost Your Sex Drive."
• Public Broadcasting Service: "Learn Why These 10 Foods Are Edible Aphrodisiacs."
• Translational Andrology and Urology: "Asian herbals and aphrodisiacs for managing ED."
• UC Davis Student Health & Counseling Services: "Sexual Communication."
• UCSF Department of Urology: "Decreased Libido."
• United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service: "Wild Oat."