Vitamins And Herbs For The Libido

Humans have tried countless foods and substances as aphrodisiacs, from Spanish fly to fine chocolates. Most provide just a confidence-building placebo effect. However, scientific research is beginning to hint at the usefulness of certain herbs and vitamins for boosting the libido, although much more research is needed before they can be widely recommended. Consult your physician before using herbs and vitamins to treat any condition.

Tongkat Ali

The herb known as tongkat ali comes from the bark and root of a flowering tree native to Indonesia, Malaysia and other parts of southeast Asia. Traditionally regarded as a libido booster for men, its other uses include combatting malaria, headaches, ulcers and wounds, according to a review in "HerbalGram." A study on sexually sluggish older rats found that those given tongkat ali for 10 days showed greater signs of sexual arousal than a control group that did not receive the herb. On the basis of these results, the researchers concluded that use of tongkat ali as a libido stimulator may have merit, but cautioned that human studies are necessary. Talk to your physician before trying this or any other herbal remedy.

Maca

Maca has been cultivated in the Peruvian Andes as both a food source and an aphrodisiac since pre-colonial times, according to ethnobotanist Michael Balick of the New York Botanical Garden. The part of the plant used is the root, which after harvest is freeze-dried in the high-altitude mountain air. Almost extinct in 1992, the herb is making a comeback. Results from small controlled research trials suggest that maca may increase libido in both men and women, help men with erectile dysfunction and increase sperm count, according to a review published in "BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine." However, the authors stopped short of endorsing maca as a libido booster, stating that more studies are needed before it can be widely recommended.

Vitamins C, E and B

The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests vitamins B, C and E to help with sexual dysfunction stemming from hormonal imbalances, poor circulation, anxiety or depression. Vitamin C serves to encourage healthy blood flow; vitamin E helps regulate hormone production; and vitamin B complex can help the body deal better with stress. Make sure to stay within the recommended daily amounts for these and other vitamins.