Highlights
- Are aphrodisiacs for women really a “thing”? Research says yes!
- Evidence shows that these five foods can increase arousal and sexual pleasure.
- Some popular aphrodisiacs for women are as easy to enjoy as a hot cup of tea.
- Erectile dysfunction pills like Viagra and Cialis, when taken by men, can improve the quality of sex for both partners — and act as a turn-on for women.
- Always consult with a doctor before taking dietary supplements.
It doesn’t take much for most men to get in the mood for sex. However, for women there is not an automatic switch that will take them to the same level of arousal.
Luckily, there are some very effective aphrodisiacs for women that may enhance your sex life. And you can find them in your local grocery or health food store!
(NOTE: While there is evidence to support that each of these items may have aphrodisiacal effects, more studies are needed to make definitive claims. Individual differences may also cause different effects; what works for one person may have no effect at all on another. Our advice? Experiment!)
What Are Aphrodisiacs?
Aphrodisiacs are sex enhancing foods, drinks, and other substances. The nutrients they contain may help your partner get aroused and strengthen your erections.
People have explored the erotic enhancement benefits of certain plants for centuries. Some ancient “love potions” make the skin crawl today! Cantharidin, the active ingredient in the infamous “Spanish fly,” is the extract of blister beetles — and it could literally kill you!
Aphrodisiacs are foods and spices believed to enhance sexual function
Natural Aphrodisiacs for Women
Today we can use safer gifts of nature to boost sexual pleasure, minus the fatal side effects. Always consult with a doctor if you’re planning to introduce them as dietary supplements. Some substances can cause drug interactions, and using a higher-than-recommended dose may be bad for your health.
Here are some of the best-known natural female aphrodisiacs:
1. Arginine
Arginine is an amino acid that helps blood vessels to relax. This improves blood flow and can potentially increase arousal and ability to orgasm. A placebo-controlled study of a supplement containing arginine revealed improvement in sex drive, vaginal lubrication, and clitoral sensation in women who tried it.
How To Use Arginine as an Aphrodisiac
Arginine is sold as a health supplement, but you can also get it from food. You can find it in nuts and pumpkin seeds, yogurt, oats, cheese, and meat (especially turkey). Who knew a healthy breakfast or lunch could have sexy benefits?
Potential Safety Concerns
Arginine is safe to use for most people; however, there are some known food and drug interactions. Be sure to check the list of interactions before taking arginine (also known as (L’arginine).
Some people should take arginine cautiously or not at all. Men who use arginine for ED or men and women who have high blood pressure should be cautious, as arginine can cause a potentially dangerous drop in blood pressure when combined with other vasodilators like ED or blood pressure medications.
People with kidney disease, liver disease, and heart disease and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding may also need to avoid arginine.
2. Damiana
Damiana is used as a general tonic for the nervous, hormonal, and reproductive systems. It also has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac. Mexican women used to drink an infusion of the herb a couple of hours before bed to get aroused for their men. Some claim damiana tea has a relaxing and mood-boosting effect, similar to a low dose of cannabis.
Research on the sexual effects of damiana on women is limited, and many of the claims are anecdotal. If used in very high doses, it can be dangerous, so never exceed the recommended amount. If your partner has diabetes, better skip it altogether and find a different way to improve her sexual function.
How To Use Damiana as an Aphrodisiac
Damiana comes in the form of tablets and tinctures and can be used in herbal tea.
Potential Safety Concerns
Damiana can have side effects, though most are rare or mild. Damiana has no known major or moderate drug interactions; however, it can interact mildly with 25 known medications. Speak to a pharmacist or certified naturopath to determine a safe daily dose for you, and report any new or unusual symptoms to your medical provider.
People with the following conditions should talk to their doctors before taking damiana:
- People who are pregnant or breast-feeding
- People with liver or kidney disease
- People with diabetes
- People taking heart disease medications
3. Ginseng
Ginseng has been an important part of Asian and North American medicine for thousands of years. It is known for boosting energy and endurance along with increasing libido.
Native Americans used it as a potent love potion and recommended it to settlers, who agreed that it was an improvement over their DIY aphrodisiacs.
The active compound of ginseng is called ginsenosides. Research shows it can modulate blood pressure and improve immunity and metabolism.
According to a study of menopausal women, ginseng can improve female sexual functioning. Earlier studies on rats suggested it works by relaxing the muscles around the clitoris and vagina.
How To Use Ginseng as an Aphrodisiac
There are different types of ginseng, including Asian and American. Speak to a doctor or qualified naturopath to determine the right type and amount if you or your partner wish to take it as a supplement. Ginseng is a root plant which can be eaten raw, steamed, or brewed as tea.
Potential Safety Concerns
American ginseng and Asian ginseng have different safety profiles. American ginseng is generally considered to be safe for most people, even when taken for long periods of time.
Asian ginseng, on the other hand, is thought to be more stimulating than American ginseng. It’s not recommended to take Asian ginseng regularly for more than six months. It can cause side effects such as insomnia, anxiety, and headache, especially when taken in high doses.
Both forms of ginseng can interact with certain medications, including aspirin and other blood thinners, MAO inhibitors (antidepressants), and diabetes medications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before using ginseng as a supplement.
4. Ginger
Ginger has been used in many cultures due to its medicinal properties. Ginger tea is known as a digestive aid for stomach problems.
Ginger may also facilitate sexual gratification and promote sexual health. It is even mentioned in the Kama Sutra as one of the herbs that can increase success in love. Ginger may help you feel more pleasure in bed because it improves blood circulation and promotes relaxation.
An interesting study conducted by researchers from NYU Shanghai examined the role of ginger in managing feelings of discomfort and even disgust towards sexual bodily fluids. Experts believe that ginger can play an important role in some female sexual dysfunctions.
Ginger root is a popular ingredient of Asian dishes
How To Use Ginger as an Aphrodisiac
Serve your lady some ginger tea, or prepare a tasty Asian dinner with a generous amount of ginger spice or fresh ginger root. Offer her candied ginger for a sweet and sexy finish!
Potential Safety Concerns
Ginger is generally well tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild side effects such as heartburn, digestive discomfort, or diarrhea. These side effects are typically mild and temporary.
Ginger can also have some drug interactions. People taking blood thinners, antiplatelet agents, or diabetes medications should speak to their doctor before taking ginger as a supplement.
5. Chocolate
Surprisingly enough, chocolate makes the top five list of aphrodisiacs! Chocolate aids in the release of serotonin, which is a chemical in the brain responsible for feelings of happiness, contentment, and relaxation.
In a review of eight studies on the impact of chocolate consumption on mood, five showed an improvement of general well-being or a reduction of negative mood.
How To Use Chocolate as an Aphrodisiac
Chocolate comes in many variations, including sweets, a hot drink, and even raw cacao. Thinking of preparing a sensual dessert for your honey? Choose dark chocolate — it contains many antioxidants (nearly eight times the number found in strawberries).
Potential Safety Concerns
Except for people who are allergic to chocolate, there are few safety concerns with this one! One word of caution, however: Chocolate does contain caffeine (though less than coffee or tea), so people who are unusually sensitive to caffeine may experience restlessness, anxiety, or sleep disturbances.
Bonus: ED Medications
Did you know that Viagra for him can be an aphrodisiac for her? But what do ED meds like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra have to do with aphrodisiacs for women? After all, these treatments are not dedicated to the ladies. It’s the man who takes erectile dysfunction pills if he has difficulties in the bedroom department.
However, knowing the man will be able to have an erection when she wants him can be a huge turn-on for women. So, in a way, you can treat ED medication for you as an aphrodisiac for her. Add that to your list of arousal stimulants — and let the games begin!
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We offer a huge selection of medication and free telemedicine consultations. Visit our erectile dysfunction section and see for yourself!
Anka Grzywacz is a sexologist, reproductive health expert and Certified Sex Coach™. In her online practice she helps busy women and couples solve their intimate problems.