Have you ever heard about the word Aphrodisiac? Aphrodisiacs claimed to increase the sex drive of a person and improve overall sexual health. But can they actually work to increase libido?
An aphrodisiac is a substance that is known to increase libido upon consumption.
They should be distinguished from substances that are aimed at addressing fertility problems such as impotence or erectile dysfunction.
Since ancient times, selected therapies, foods, as well as drinks, have been said to improve the sexual performance of individuals who use them.
Both historical and scientific analyses have questioned the effectiveness of aphrodisiacs in raising libido.
They argue that this option might have worked because the users believe in them – the placebo effect.
Findings from such studies have also put doubts and questions in the mind of both existing and prospective users of the different aphrodisiacs.
This article will help in determining if they do work and if yes, how.
Since time immemorial, food items such as turnips, onions, leeks, asparagus, watercress, and squash were believed to increase sexual desire, besides increasing the sperm count.
During that time, foods that resemble the sex organ were labeled as aphrodisiacs.
These are fruits such as apple and pears. On the other hand, fruits with many seeds, such as figs, were seen as incredibly good for improving fertility.
The oysters to have consistently been praised for its apparent aphrodisiac powers.
To the Americans, chocolate is just comforting food, but it is an aphrodisiac to the traditional Aztecs.
A research study conducted by Elizabeth West MD, and Michael Krychman MD (published in the journal of the international society for sexual medicine) provides an analysis of the effectiveness of the most popular aphrodisiacs.
Men and women with one or more problems associated with sexual dysfunction will find the research findings extremely useful.
Let us consider just a few of them whose effectiveness was confirmed by the two researchers.
Ginkgo Biloba
It is a popular ingredient of Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly the ones designed for the treatment of conditions such as sexual dysfunction and depression.
Ginkgo Biloba is an herbal enhancement that is obtained from the Ginkgo biloba tree, which is among the oldest species of trees.
The researchers found out that Ginkgo Biloba helped to improve the sexual functioning of men and women, where the dysfunction was as a result of taking a type of anti-depressant.
Ginkgo Biloba acts by aiding in the relaxation of the blood vessels and increasing the flow of blood. Nevertheless, it should be used in moderation, as excessive use can cause bleeding.
Fenugreek
It is an annually cultivated plant across the world. It is quite common in Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-inflammatory, libido-enhancing treatment.
The researchers found out that Fenugreek has compounds that are used by the body in making sexual hormones, for instance, testosterone and estrogen.
The plant helps in boosting sexual drives and arousal for both men and women.
Tribulus
Tribulus is an annual plant that commonly grows in dry climates.
Research work showed that women who have sexual dysfunctioning witnessed improvement in their sexual satisfaction on using 250 mg of it for about 90 days.
Tribulus is proven to increase sexual arousals and lubrication and, ultimately, a more satisfying sexual life.
Maca
This root vegetable has its origin traced back to Andes, Peru. Maca is among the few common natural aphrodisiacs that are supported by various researchers.
Throughout history, Maca has been used in the treatment of sexual drive, fertility, and hot flashes.
The two medical doctors (the researchers) discovered a couple of promising studies involving men and women, that generated positive results.
However, the right dosage for maca is yet to be established with accuracy.
Pistachio Nuts
Pistachio nuts are nutritious and rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. It has been in use since 6,000 BC. They aid in reductions of symptoms of erectile dysfunctioning.
From the researchers, men who use 100 grams of it daily for three weeks experience an increase in the flow of blood to their penis and stronger erections.
Pistachio nuts improve blood cholesterol and stimulate the flow of blood in the body.
Saffron
This is a spice that is obtained from the Crocus sativus flower. Saffron is popular in its aphrodisiac properties.
Research on men given 30 mg of it daily for about four weeks showed improvements in their erectile functioning.
The individuals using it experience increment in their arousal levels and increase in their lubrication levels.
Ginseng
It is a common herb in Chinese medication.
Based on the research studies they reviewed, the two researchers concluded that there is enough evidence to warrant a conclusion that ginseng aids in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
They analyzed seven studies which helped them to conclude that Ginseng is pretty much effective. Moreover, Ginseng aids in sexual arousal when used by women.
According to the researchers, you may want to consider passing on other food items such as chaste berries, wild yams, honey, and chocolates, among many others.
Either no scientific studies have been done to analyze their effectiveness, or the ones already existing did not confirm the claimed aphrodisiac powers.
In conclusion, we have discussed how aphrodisiacs work to improve libido and if they can increase libido. We have provided enough facts and evidence-based knowledge to help you decide if you should start using them for your libido.
