Natural strategies to enhance libido include consuming foods thought to have aphrodisiac effects, lowering stress, and nurturing intimacy with a partner. In some cases, medical care or therapy may be beneficial.
Libido is another term for sexual desire. A variety of internal and external influences can modify your libido — from hormone levels to medications to sleep patterns.
Everyone’s libido varies, but a decline in sexual desire as you age is common.
Keep reading to discover natural approaches to support libido and sexual performance through changes in diet, exercise, and stress reduction, and to learn when it may be appropriate to consult a healthcare professional.
1. Try eating fruit with aphrodisiac qualities
There’s limited proof that specific foods reliably increase libido, but experimenting is harmless.
Figs, bananas, and avocados, for instance, are traditionally viewed as libido-enhancing foods or aphrodisiacs.
These foods also supply key vitamins and minerals that can promote blood circulation to the genital area and support a healthy sexual life.
2. Try eating chocolate as an aphrodisiac
Historically, chocolate has symbolized desire — not only for its delightful taste but also for its potential to enhance sexual pleasure.
Chocolate can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and other chemicals that have mood-elevating and mildly aphrodisiac effects.
Serotonin may influence blood flow to genital tissues, which could underlie some of chocolate’s libido-enhancing properties.
3. Garnish with herbs to improve circulation
Next time you prepare a romantic meal, consider adding basil or garlic. The aroma of basil can stimulate the senses, while garlic contains allicin, a compound that acts as a vasodilator and may increase blood flow.
Although additional research is necessary, these effects might potentially benefit people with erectile dysfunction (ED).
4. Try an herbal remedy from Africa
Yohimbine, an alkaloid derived from the bark of a West African tree, has been reported to act in a manner similar to some ED treatments.
Some studies indicate that yohimbine bark may help sustain an erection. It might also enhance erection quality and could improve sexual function when used alongside other approaches.
However, further research is required to determine if yohimbine is effective for erectile dysfunction. According to a review, emerging therapies may help those who do not respond to conventional treatments, but higher-quality studies are needed.
5. Focus on how you feel about sex
Your body image influences your sexual feelings.
Keeping a balanced diet and committing to regular physical activity can help you feel more in tune with your body and may enhance self-esteem.
You can also shift attention toward the pleasure experienced during sexual activity.
6. Try one glass of wine to set the mood
A single glass of wine can relax you and heighten interest in intimacy. However, excessive alcohol can impair sexual performance by affecting erectile function.
Too much alcohol can also inhibit your capacity to reach orgasm.
»Learn more:Here’s What Happens When You Mix Alcohol and Sex7. Take time to meditate and ease stress
No matter how healthy you are, chronic stress can diminish libido.
Some research suggests that women may be especially vulnerable to stress-related impacts on sexuality.
Men, conversely, might use sex as a stress-relief tool. These differing approaches can sometimes cause friction, which may increase tension between partners.
Meditation can help reduce stress. You might also benefit from:
- taking part in sports activities
- practicing tai chi
- attending a yoga class
8. Get adequate sleep
People with busy lives don’t always manage to get sufficient sleep. A hectic schedule also makes it harder to find time for sex.
Boost energy and libido by napping when possible and eating a nutritious diet rich in protein and complex carbohydrates.
9. Cultivate intimacy with your partner
After an argument with your partner, you’re probably not in the mood for sex.
For many, feeling emotionally close is essential to sexual desire. Unresolved disputes can therefore affect your sexual relationship.
Open communication is crucial for building trust and preventing resentment from accumulating. Developing better communication and understanding of your partner’s needs can also tie into learning more about the clitoris and female pleasure — see healthy sex clitoris for guidance on female anatomy and pleasure.
»Learn more:Ways to Build Emotional Intimacy with Your Partner10. Talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional
Even if you prefer natural methods to boost libido, it can be helpful to consult a clinician.
They can help identify any underlying conditions affecting your sexual health and may refer you to a mental health professional experienced in sex therapy or couples counseling. Men concerned about erectile function or orgasm may find resources on healthy sex male orgasm useful when discussing symptoms with a clinician.
»FIND CARE:Find a primary care doctor in your area today.Frequently asked questions
What can you do to improve your libido and sexual performance?
Concentrating on overall health supports long-term sexual wellbeing.
Exercise regularly to improve circulation, reduce stress, and enhance mood. Eat a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Ensure sufficient sleep to help regulate hormones.
Address any medical issues and consider mental health support to manage stress, relationship problems, and related concerns.
What increases libido naturally?
Chocolate, oysters, garlic, and fenugreek are examples of foods often regarded as natural aphrodisiacs.
Ginseng, L-arginine, ginkgo biloba, and maca are some supplements touted for improving female libido and sexual function.
Some research indicates that herbal supplements like ginseng, Tribulus terrestris, and Pycnogenol might help erectile dysfunction naturally.
Practices such as yoga and acupuncture may also be useful when combined with a healthy lifestyle. For topical or intimate lubricants some people consider oils — if you’re curious about using coconut oil safely, see coconut oil sex for guidance and precautions.
What can cause your libido to be low?
Low libido can result from temporary spikes in stress or disruptions to your daily routine. Certain medications, including some antidepressants and hormonal therapies, can have prolonged effects on sexual desire.
If you’re worried that your libido is lower than you’d like, consulting a healthcare professional may be helpful.
What increases libido immediately?
Spontaneous desire is exactly that — spontaneous, with no clear trigger.
Responsive desire, however, can be more predictable. Specific types of touch — self-stimulation or partner stimulation — may activate this form of desire.
Prescription medications may offer more immediate effects for people with erectile dysfunction. Find Roman ED medication online.
The bottom line
Remember that everyone is unique. It may take some trial and error to determine what works best for you.
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