9 Types of Libido-Boosting Supplements for Females (and Whether They Work)

From vitamins to herbs, there are many natural options for increasing sexual desire. And while some of these supplements are are not backed by science, others are proven to support sexual health.

Here's what the research says about nine of the most popular libido-boosting supplements for females.

Supplements That May Be Helpful

There is some evidence to suggest that the following supplements may help boost sex drive in females.

DHEA

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone the body converts into estrogen and testosterone; research suggests it may boost libido in females—although the evidence is mixed.

A small study of 50 premenopausal women found that taking 75 milligrams (mg) of DHEA daily for one to two months improved desire, particularly in women who reported low sexual function at the start of the study. A larger review of research, however, found no consistent benefit of DHEA for libido.

DHEA may cause side effects such as facial hair growth and acne. And it isn't safe for everyone: People with hormone-sensitive breast or ovarian cancers should not take DHEA. In addition, taking the supplement for extended periods and/or in doses higher than 100 milligrams per day may increase a person's risk of cancer.

Vitamin E With Ginseng

Ginseng, the root of a plant, is used in traditional Asian medicine to help boost immunity, regulate blood sugar, and improve focus. And supplements that combine the root with vitamin E may boost libido.

A six-week trial of 62 females found that those who took a supplement that contained a combination of vitamin E and Korean ginseng reported an increase in sexual desire. In other studies, ginseng improved sexual functioning for menopausal women, but was not effective for premenopausal women.

More research on ginseng is needed to determine its benefits and establish dosing. It's side effects are generally mild and include headache, dizziness, and stomach upset. However, ginseng can interact with other herbal products, as well as some prescription medications, so it's important to discuss it with your healthcare provider before taking it.

Zinc

Zinc is a nutrient found throughout the body that's important for the immune system and metabolism, and it may play a role in sexual health as well. Zinc supplements are marketed as increasing sexual desire, arousal, and pleasure.

A study of 116 postmenopausal women found that zinc supplements increased testosterone levels and improved sexual desire.

Zinc supplements are generally safe to use as long as they don't interact with any medications you take. (Check with your healthcare provider.) However, taking more than 50 milligrams (mg) of zinc per day may cause nausea, dizziness, headaches, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues. Excess zinc may also interfere with magnesium absorption, resulting in a mineral imbalance.

L-Arginine

L-arginine is an amino acid that plays a role in numerous body functions including growth, blood sugar regulation, and circulation; and it may improve sexual desire and satisfaction. In addition to supplements, L-arginine is found in a variety of foods, including red meat, poultry, pork, and fish; dairy; legumes; and pineapple.

A small study of 77 women found that L-arginine supplements improved sexual satisfaction by decreasing vaginal dryness and enhancing sexual desire, orgasm, and clitoral sensation. Other randomized trials have shown that L-arginine supplements boost libido in pre- and postmenopausal women.

L-arginine supplements are usually well tolerated, with few side effects. However, they are not recommended for people who recently had a heart attack, and may interact with some blood pressure and diabetes medications.

Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus terrestris is an herb used as a sexual stimulant. It contains a substance that affects female reproductive hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). However, it's not clear that this increases female libido.

Some research shows that tribulus terrestris increases desire in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder, but other studies have been inconclusive. Research is also unclear about the long-term effects of taking this supplement. Side effects include abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Supplements Lacking Scientific Evidence

Based on available research, there is not enough data to support the use of the following supplements to increase libido.

Maca Root

Maca root has long been touted as a remedy for sexual dysfunction in both males and females. It is available in many forms, including powders and capsules, and can be mixed into food and beverages.

While maca root might help some women improve their libido, there is no research proving its effectiveness or a safe dose.

Kanna

Kanna is derived from a plant and supposedly affects the amount of serotonin (a chemical crucial for pleasure and sexual desire) in the brain. However, there is no research proving that kanna has a direct, positive impact on libido.

Kanna supplements do not seem to be harmful if taken as recommended. However, some people may experience side effects such as headaches, increased appetite, confusion, or anxiety.

Red Clover

Red clover is a flowering plant used to manage conditions such as asthma and arthritis, as well as alleviate low libido and vaginal dryness during menopause.

Studies find that red clover supplements improve vaginal lubrication, but there is little evidence that they boost sexual desire.

There are no serious side effects associated with red clover, but it could potentially cause headache, nausea, or rash.

Supplements That May Be Harmful

While you look for natural options to increase sexual desire, it's important to be aware of supplements that may do more harm than good.

Betel Nut

Betel nut contains natural alkaloids that trigger the release of dopamine, a brain chemical that plays a key role in motivation, pleasure, and arousal.

Although betel nut may boost libido, it's not recommended for anyone because it is highly addictive. It can also cause a number of adverse side effects, including insomnia and anxiety.

What Foods Are Aphrodisiacs for Women?

Some foods—such as truffles, dark chocolate, strawberries, and oysters—have long been touted as aphrodisiacs. But these claims aren't backed by science.

Eating a balanced diet, however, is crucial for overall health—including sexual health. Staying hydrated is also essential for general wellness and vaginal lubrication, which may improve aspects of your libido.

Other Ways to Boost Libido

Sexual desire is influenced by internal and external factors. Lifestyle challenges, chronic health conditions, prescription medications, and alcohol and drug use can all contribute to reduced libido.

In addition to talking to your healthcare provider about treatment, you may be able to increase your sex drive by making lifestyle changes, such as:

• Managing stress: Chronic stress can cause your libido to nosedive.
• Cutting down on drinks and quitting smoking: Alcohol and tobacco contribute to sexual dysfunction.
• Sleeping more: Getting adequate sleep has been shown to increase sexual desire and arousal. If you aren't getting enough sleep, begin with sleep hygiene tips like setting a regular bedtime and sticking to it, even on weekends.
• Talking to a therapist: Counseling can help you (and your partner if applicable) work on conditions and issues that may be contributing to low libido.
  

Summary

Limited research has shown that some supplements—such as zinc and vitamin E with ginseng—can improve female libido. However, more robust clinical trials are needed.

Sex drive is influenced by many things, including sleep, stress, alcohol use, and prescription medications. Your healthcare provider can help determine if changes to your lifestyle and/or treatment plan might positively affect your libido.