The human hormone dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is commonly used as an alternative over-the-counter treatment for several common ailments. According to MedlinePlus, good scientific evidence supports the use of DHEA to treat depression, systemic lupus and adrenal insufficiency, but most of its other uses remain unproven. Many naturopaths recommend DHEA as an aphrodisiac, or sexual enhancer, for both men and women. However, more studies are needed to confirm its overall efficacy.
Disease and Libido
Many of DHEA's aphrodisiac effects relate directly to its ability to treat the underlying medical causes of low libido. According to MedlinePlus, people with adrenal insufficiency, or Addison's disease, experience improved sexual function while using DHEA. DHEA also demonstrates promise as a treatment for depression, a common underlying cause of sexual dysfunction in women. Although MedlinePlus notes that DHEA is an evidence-based treatment for these conditions, few studies have evaluated its use as an aphrodisiac for healthy individuals with no known medical problems.
Anti-Aging Effects
According to MayoClinic.com, DHEA levels peak when a woman is in her 20s and gradually decline during her 30s, 40s and 50s. Low levels of DHEA can contribute to many age-related health problems, including bone loss, cognitive impairment and low libido. During and after menopause, DHEA can act as a natural precursor to levels of reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which directly relate to a woman's sexual health and fertility. As a result, DHEA may help the body to maintain sexual vitality during the aging process.
General Aphrodisiac Effects
MedlinePlus suggests that DHEA may act as an effective treatment for general cases of sexual dysfunction, or frigidity, in women. However, as stated above, there is insufficient evidence to effectively demonstrate its efficacy; no well-designed studies have yielded conclusive results. In addition to supporting overall female sexual health, DHEA may help to treat sexual problems in men. Consult your primary health care provider if you experience persistent sexual problems, particularly if they occur as the secondary result of a pre-existing medical condition.
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