Introduction

Libido refers to a person's overall sexual desire or drive.

Sexual drive functions as an essential component that affects both romantic relationships and emotional connections while maintaining physical health. In fact, sexual desire often reflects how we perceive a partner’s value and can serve as a powerful motivator to nurture and invest in long-term relationships.

Sexual desire is a fundamental aspect of human health and relationships. The absence or dysfunction of desire brings distress to both physical health and mental well-being, which can negatively affect self-esteem and fertility. 

Multiple individuals seek natural solutions through herbal aphrodisiacs to address their libido and sexual performance problems. 

Aphrodisiacs are defined as items whose purpose is to enhance sexual desire, together with sexual function.^1,3

Natural supplements that may boost libido

Tribulus terrestris

The plant has been used for centuries in both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medical practices. In folk medicine it was used to treat dizziness alongside heart conditions, eye issues, urinary tract problems and skin diseases.

It has been found useful in improving sexual function as well as fertility, especially in males.

It improves libido, along with erectile function. It may also improve sperm quality.

The natural compound protodioscin found in this plant seems to enhance specific sex hormones such as DHEA.

It also increases nitric oxide (NO) production, which enhances blood circulation, including the sexual organs.^4,5

Maca

Maca is a root plant native to Peru, traditionally used to improve energy, fertility, and sexual desire in both men and women.

The supplement increases libido and improves sexual performance.

Maca contains glycosides, antioxidants and phytochemicals. The substances found in this 

plant work to regulate hormones while decreasing stress and enhancing the overall functioning of the body.

It acts as an adaptogen, which means it provides natural stress relief while enhancing both brain function and physical energy levels.

Maca increases sexual desire in men and women, but it does not alter hormone levels.

Maca has also been shown to improve sperm health.⁶

Ginseng

For thousands of years, traditional medicine has utilised this herbal remedy primarily within Chinese medical practices.

Both men and women experience an increase in sexual drive after its consumption.

The treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), alongside sperm health support are few other benefits.

Postmenopausal women benefit from reduced vaginal dryness, which creates more comfortable intimacy experiences.

The natural compounds, ginsenosides in Ginseng, increase nitric oxide (NO) production for better blood flow and simultaneously act as antioxidants to defend body cells against harm.

This substance possesses numerous health benefits, which include aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, gastroprotective, and antioxidant effects. Its adaptogenic properties help control blood glucose and cholesterol levels and promote relaxation, which makes Ginseng a versatile therapeutic agent.^1,3,4,7

Fenugreek

A traditional herb and spice used in cooking and medicine.

The seeds of this plant serve as the primary source for obtaining health benefits.

The plant contains saponins with diosgenin as the primary compound, which shows potential for testosterone level enhancement. Fenugreek may boost libido in both men and women.

The substance helps patients achieve better erections and fights symptoms that appear during andropause (men's age-related hormone decrease).

Fenugreek may influence prolactin levels, which can affect lactation and breast tissue; this is sometimes seen as a side effect. The herb was used traditionally to boost milk production for nursing mothers.

Fenugreek may also help with menopausal symptoms and blood sugar control, especially in people with type 2 diabetes and may help reduce body fat and improve muscle strength.^1,4,8

Seafood

The nutrients present in fish and oysters support sexual health, fertility and hormone balance.

Fish oil obtained from fatty fish types such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel contains omega-3 fatty acids, which enhance brain oxygen levels and the brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin. This elevates libido and alleviates stress and anxiety, which would otherwise decrease sexual desire. 

It may improve semen quality, sperm count, and reproductive health. The improved blood circulation to reproductive organs creates better sexual function overall.

The natural aphrodisiac quality of oysters, along with their high zinc content, enables testosterone production. It has amino acids and peptides that boost nitric oxide production to improve blood flow and erections. They also help stimulate the production of the hormone LH (luteinising hormone), which increases testosterone levels. They can activate the brain’s reward and pleasure pathways, which lead to better sexual experiences.^1,3

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb. The roots are most commonly used.

Studies indicate that women with sexual dysfunction experience enhanced sexual function, along with satisfaction and better life quality after taking this supplement.

The available research evidence regarding male sexual function is mixed. Several scientific investigations revealed no substantial benefit of ashwagandha for men with erectile dysfunction, although research findings are mixed: some studies show no benefit, while others report improvements in sexual function.

A research study revealed that men who consumed ashwagandha demonstrated improved sexual desire, arousal, behaviour and enhanced orgasm rates.

The supplement provides benefits for memory, sleep improvement and weight management and metabolism. The herb functions to control emotional states and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety in humans.^7,9,10

Tongkat ali

The plant Eurycoma longifolia also goes by the names longjack or Malaysian ginseng.

The root of this plant is the primary component.

This plant has established a reputation for enhancing male fertility alongside sexual health and testosterone production.

Quassinoids are the active substances present in this plant. Quassinoids help boost testosterone production and simultaneously enhance sexual performance and libido.

The quality of sperm may also improve.

It may help lower cortisol levels, which in turn help the body reduce stress and fatigue.

The substance supports immune system health while producing anti-inflammatory properties.

It enhances both athletic performance and energy levels.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a warning about DNA damage that could result from using this substance. The long-term safety of this substance remains unknown.^4,6,8

Supplements with limited or no evidence

Yohimbine

Yohimbine is found in the bark of the West African tree – yohimbe tree. Yohimbine is the primary compound within the bark, while other related substances exist alongside it.

Yohimbine functions as a traditional herbal remedy to treat impotence in men.

The substance triggers noradrenaline release, which enhances nervous system activity, thus potentially improving sexual arousal and blood flow.

The substance, Yohimbine, does not raise testosterone levels but may still enhance sexual desire along with sexual function.

The substance affects regions in the brain that control mood, arousal, and sexual behaviour.

The substance improves penile erections by two mechanisms: It blocks α2 receptors, which normally decrease blood flow, and it enhances nitric oxide production in the penis.

Certain side effects may occur in sensitive individuals when taking high doses of the substance, including :

• Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure
• Sweating, flushing, and anxiety
• Chest pain, breathing problems, or irregular heartbeat (rare but serious)

Before sildenafil (Viagra) became available, this medication was used frequently by patients.^1,11

Rhinoceros horn

Throughout history, people have believed that rhino horn enhances sexual performance.

The belief partly stemmed from its visual resemblance to male genitalia, but this has no scientific basis.

There is no proof that rhino horn improves libido or boosts sexual performance. In fact, it does not have any real aphrodisiac properties.

The horn consists of calcium and phosphorus compounds that do not enhance sexual function in any way.

The practice of using rhino horn is detrimental because it threatens the survival of the rhino species.²

Spanish fly

Spanish fly represents a blister beetle species that produces cantharidin, a toxin for its defensive purposes.

People have used Spanish fly as an aphrodisiac for many centuries because the substance causes genital irritation that leads to increased blood flow.

Spanish fly causes irritation of the urinary and genital tract, leading to swelling that was mistaken for an aphrodisiac (toxic) response.

The substance results in dangerous side effects, which include :

• Painful burns which affect the mouth and throat.
• Infections, along with bloody urine and scarring damage to the urinary tract.
• Damage to the kidneys and internal bleeding can eventually cause death.

Even a 10-milligram dose of the substance has resulted in human fatalities.²

Bufo toad

Bufo toads are distributed throughout the world as a species of toad.

Their skin and glands release a chemical called bufotenin, which affects the brain similarly to serotonin.

It is also used for its effects as a hallucinogen (psychedelic).

There is no scientific proof that it actually improves sexual performance.

The FDA has prohibited its use because of dangerous adverse reactions, which can result in poisoning and death.²

Mad honey

It is derived from the nectar of Rhododendron ponticum plants, which contains a toxin known as grayanotoxin, which affects the brain and heart

Low doses can cause:

• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Low blood pressure (hypotension­)

High doses can lead to severe medical issues, including:

• Fainting (syncope)
• Heart rhythm issues (AV block)
• Heart-stopping (asystole)

Mad honey is dangerous and can be deadly, and therefore should be avoided.²

Summary

This article investigates different natural substances which people believe will increase libido and sexual performance. 

Tribulus terrestris, maca and ginseng, alongside traditional favourites ashwagandha and fenugreek, may enhance sexual health, hormone balance and overall wellness. 

Some natural supplements show promising benefits, but yohimbine and tongkat ali present potential negative effects, together with unknown long-term safety profiles. 

Rhinoceros horn, Spanish fly, bufo toad, and mad honey are all ineffective and dangerous, unethical and illegal.

Even though herbal supplements are generally safe, they require extra attention from users. Herbal supplements have the potential to interact with medications, while their quality varies, and they can produce side effects that users do not expect. Before attempting any supplement, you should always consult your healthcare provider.

Herbal remedies serve as supplementary tools, but they should not be considered instant solutions to problems. Medical or psychological problems with persistent low libido require professional guidance to find safe, personalised solutions.