A low sex drive can afflict men and woman alike. In men, aging sometimes leads to slower arousal and erectile dysfunction (ED). A woman's libido may ebb and flow over the years, due in large part to fluctuating hormones. As a woman ages, vaginal dryness may also contribute to lower sexual desire. There are a number of herbs that may help both men and women jump start their libidos.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo (extracted from the gingko tree) may help boost sexual desire in both men and women. In men, ginkgo may stimulate blood flow to the penis and help treat erectile dysfunction. In women, its ability to increase moisture retention in the skin may be beneficial. The Mayo Clinic says ginkgo can cause thinning of the blood, which can increase the risk of bleeding in some people.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe (derived from the bark of the African yohimbe tree) may help treat ED, particularly if male impotence has psychological rather than physical roots. A pharmaceutical preparation known as yohimbie is available by prescription. Yohimbe can contribute to high blood pressure and may cause headaches, dizziness and nausea.
Ginseng
Ginseng has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of year to treat a wide range of medical conditions. The Mayo Clinic says American and Asian ginseng may be of some help in the treatment of ED. This herb can induce mania in a person who takes a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant. Otherwise it has no known side effects.
Motherwort
Motherwort (Herba Leonori) may help stimulate sexual arousal in women. In ancient Greece and Rome, this herb was used to treat depression and heart palpitations. According to SafeMenopauseSolutions.com, this herb acts as a uterine tonic because of its ability to produce uterine contractions. Motherwort may also relieve anxiety and act as a relaxant.
Peppermint Leaf
Peppermint leaf (Folium menthae piperitae) may help combat vaginal dryness with its touted lubricating effects. Peppermint leaf may also have psychological benefits that may enhance sexual desire since it may serve to reduce tension and anxiety.
Epimedium
Epimedium (horny goat weed) may help increase low levels of testosterone in men and have a positive effect on sexual desire. There is scant information available about the safety or side effects of epimedium. When takes in high doses, it may lead to breathing problems.
