Decreased sexual desire or libido is the most common complaint among women, affecting up to 43 percent, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Age, prescription medications, depression and heart disease can cause a decrease in libido. Your physician can determine if symptoms of decreased libido are physical or psychological in nature and may treat you with hormones or other prescription medication. Female sex drive may fluctuate, and herbal treatment may be a good option for women who wish to stay away from prescription drugs.
Chaste Tree Berry
Chaste tree berry, or vitex, has a normalizing effect on the libido of women by stimulating the production of progesterone and lowering estrogen if there is too much in the body. It also helps with depression associated with hormone imbalance or with menstruation, which may help in normalizing sexual desire in women.
Yohimbe
The combination of the herb yohimbe and the amino acid aginine may increase sexual arousal in women, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Yohimbe works by blocking nerve activity that causes blood vessels to dilate, allowing increased blood flow to the sexual organs. However, yohimbe should only be taken under the supervision of a health care provider because high doses are dangerous and it can interact with several medications.
Ginseng
Ginseng can improve sexual libido in both men and women. It contains ginsenosides, a compound that helps release nitric oxide in blood vessels, increasing blood flow throughout the body and reproductive organs. Ginseng has an estrogenlike effect on female reproductive tissues, preventing vaginal atrophy, according to the online magazine Breastfeeding.com.
Gingko Biloba
Gingko biloba increases peripheral circulation, which in return can increase sexual function. According to NYU Langone Medical Center, a 1998 study by Drs. Alan J. Cohen and Barbara Bartlick found that 84 percent of male and female patients who took gingko biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction saw an increase in their sexual libido.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is classified as a female herb, useful in treating menopausal symptoms. Dong quai relaxes peripheral blood vessels, which in turn increases blood flow to the sexual organs, improving sexual function.
Damiana Leaf
Damiana leaf is used in treating menopausal symptoms and can increase blood flow and sensitivity in the clitoris, increasing a woman's sexual desire. It is also a mood-enhancing herb and can help reduce stress, relaxing mood and increasing sex drive.
