Which Essential Oils Can Help You Set the Mood for Intimacy?

Below is a summary of essential oils you might consider introducing into the bedroom.

Essential oils for libido

Various plants have long been used to enhance sexual desire, performance, and enjoyment for both men and women. Nevertheless, there’s limited rigorous research on how essential oils might influence a person’s sex life.

Although no essential oil can be definitively labeled an aphrodisiac, certain characteristics of these oils are associated with a more positive sexual experience.

1. Clary sage

Scientific studies indicate clary sage may relieve some women’s reproductive complaints, such as painful periods. Additional research shows clary sage essential oil can reduce stress hormones.

While definitive proof of its mood-elevating effects is limited, clary sage might help create a more receptive atmosphere for sex.

2. Lavender

Inhaling lavender scent has been shown to markedly lower anxiety and stress, promoting deep relaxation that could enhance sexual encounters.

3. Sandalwood

Researchers have reported that women who inhaled sandalwood essential oil and its primary compound during sex experienced improved mood and greater desire compared with those who didn’t.

4. Ylang ylang

Evidence suggests inhaling ylang ylang oil is tied to feelings of euphoria and can alleviate depressive symptoms. One study found topical application of ylang ylang may boost self-esteem.

Although a direct scientific connection between ylang ylang and sexual response is unclear, its positive effects on mood suggest it could be a useful oil for enhancing sexual arousal.

5. Carpolobia

In parts of Africa, men traditionally chew the stem and root of carpolobia to extract the plant’s oils prior to sex to potentially enhance performance. However, there’s limited scientific clarity on how carpolobia essential oil influences male sexual function.

6. Eurycoma longifolia

Research indicates eurycoma longifolia (tongkat ali or pasak bumi) can increase the ability of male rats to have erections and raise sexual motivation in reluctant male rats.

In Malaysia, this plant is regarded as a potent male aphrodisiac. More human studies are needed to assess the effects of inhaling its essential oil.

7. Ginseng

Scientists suspect ginseng oil stimulates brain chemicals involved in improved erectile function in both animals and humans.

8. Satureja khuzestanica

Animal research on male rats suggests satureja khuzestanica essential oil may enhance fertility, sperm output, and litter size in rats. Whether it confers similar fertility benefits in human males is uncertain.

Essential oils for female stimulation

Women with greater scent sensitivity tend to report more orgasms than those with less sensitive olfaction. So if your sense of smell is strong, essential oils could improve your sexual experience.

Some oils that may have aphrodisiac-like effects for women include:

• clary sage
• lavender
• sandalwood
• ylang ylang

Essential oils for male arousal

There’s somewhat more investigation into how essential oils affect male sexual response. Research has identified these oils as potential male aphrodisiacs:

• carpolobia
• eurycoma longifolia
• ginseng
• satureja khuzestanica

How to use essential oils as aphrodisiacs

Essential oils are widely available online and in health stores. Below are several ways to use them to help create a romantic ambiance.

Topical application

People often apply essential oils to the skin, where they’re absorbed and then inhaled. Most essential oils should be diluted with a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation.

Avoid applying essential oils directly to your genitals, even when diluted.

Diluted oils can be used to give your partner a sensual massage, which releases the aroma while engaging muscles and increasing circulation.

Physical touch itself is a potent aphrodisiac that can help prepare you for intimacy and sustain sensuality after sex, according to research.

Essential oil baths

To make a scented bath, mix 3 to 12 drops of essential oil with about an ounce of carrier oil, then add to warm bathwater.

Stir the water gently to disperse the oil so the fragrance diffuses through the air. You can immerse your whole body or just a portion, such as your feet.

Studies on lavender suggest a foot bath with the oil may slightly improve mood. Keep bath water containing oils away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Diffusers

Diffusers are an easy way to scent an entire room. Various diffuser types exist — some gently warm the oil to vaporize it, while others release it slowly, like scented sticks.

Diffusers suit people who prefer not to apply oils to their skin. Be mindful of others who might be exposed to diffused oils unintentionally, such as children, pets, or pregnant people.

For readers interested in fertility-related aromatherapy, consider exploring essential oil for fertility as an additional resource.

Side effects and safety tips

Essential oils can provoke allergic reactions in some individuals. Check product labels and avoid oils from plants to which you may be allergic.

Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation. Never apply oils near your eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or on genital tissues.

If you or your partner experience a reaction — such as burning, stinging, or redness — wash the affected area immediately with warm water and mild soap.

Bottom line

Although it’s difficult to establish clear causal links between essential oil use and sexual outcomes, evidence suggests certain oils may function as aphrodisiacs. When used safely, experimenting with essential oils to enhance sexual connection carries relatively low risk.