Do you want to increase your libido? Or do you just feel a bit more playful overall? I started to walk towards the kitchen.

Before going into the details, it is important to understand that there is no such thing as a “right” or “wrong” sexual problem for women. And there is certainly no rule on how often people should have sex.

Sexual desire is a delicate thing. Everything from the menstrual cycle to how much stress you feel at work can cause a small change. But a sudden change in your libido can in some cases be a sign of a basic health problem (more on this later).

Here’s a look at the best foods associated with increased female libido, including some that are backed by extensive research and others that may be more folkloric than scientific.

Foods and herbs supported by some level of evidence

At least several studies have shown that certain foods, including herbs, increase libido. Just keep in mind that most of these studies weren’t very important or rigorous, so don’t put all your hopes and dreams into them.

One more thing to keep in mind when it comes to herbal supplements: Dosage varies from product to product, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Therefore, it is also a good idea to check with your health care provider or pharmacist how any of these supplements may interact with:

• prescription drugs
• drug available without a prescription
• vitamins
• other herbal supplements
• Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba is a popular herbal supplement that can be consumed in a number of ways. Preliminary research suggests that ginkgo may be effective as a natural aphrodisiac.

However, the results of a study on the use of ginkgo are not convincing whether it actually boosts sexual function in women or not.

Ginseng

Are you looking for another easily accessible add-on? Ginseng is the one that has many potential health benefits.

A recent small study concluded that ginseng beat placebo in fighting sexual dysfunction in people taking methadone. How will this affect people who do not use methadone? More research is needed, but it may be worth a try.

hematoma

According to a study, a credible source, maca may have some potential to treat antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Additionally, maca has been used in the past to increase fertility and libido.

While the research is promising, a recent review suggests that some claims about mass might be a bit exaggerated.

Tribulus terrestris

Another herbal supplement that can be effective in increasing libido is Tribulus terrestris.

One study, a credible source, evaluated whether 7.5 milligrams (mg) of Tribulus terrestris extract was effective in decreasing sexual interest / arousal in women.

After 4 weeks, those who took the extract experienced improvement in sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction. Moo? It was a relatively small study with only 60 participants.

Saffron

Saffron, a popular and expensive spice, is often recommended as an aphrodisiac, and early research backs this up. In one study, women taking antidepressants showed significant improvement in sexual arousal after taking saffron for 4 weeks.

Although this study found an improvement in sexual arousal, it showed no improvement in sexual desire.

Red wine

Red wine is a highly recommended aphrodisiac. Among other potential benefits, red wine may improve sexual function, according to a 2009 study.

However, it is important to note that these results were reported alone for the small sample. Additionally, other studies suggest that consuming too much alcohol can have the opposite effect on libido, so moderation is key.

Apples

Believe it or not, apples can have a positive effect on a woman’s sexual arrow. One study showed that women who ate an apple a day had better sex lives.

While this looks promising, this study only suggests a correlation between apple consumption and sexual health. It is not entirely clear whether the consumption of apples directly affects sexual function. There are also no other major studies on the ability

greek hayloft

Greek hay is an herb that is used both in cooking and as a supplement. Some research suggests that it can help increase libido.

A study concluded that Greek hay can be an effective treatment for increasing sexual desire in women. But most of the current research on Greek hay concerns men’s sexual health.

Foods with unofficial evidence

Although not supported by any evidence, these foods and herbs have historically been used to increase libido. Some swear by them. Plus, you probably already have several in your kitchen, making it easy to try them out.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a commonly recommended aphrodisiac. However, a 2006 study, despite its popularity, found that chocolate consumption did not make a significant difference in women.

Coffee

Some people recommend coffee as an aphrodisiac, but while coffee can help improve your mood, there is no research to back this up.

Honey

Although honey is a good source of antioxidants, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it increases libido.

Strawberries

Strawberries are another popular choice that some people trust, despite the lack of evidence.

Raw oysters

The original Casanova began to be claimed every day by eating 50 raw oysters. Both men and women have reported increased libido after eating. But again, there is no evidence to support these claims.

capsaicin

Capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers, offers several health benefits, including improved sex drive.

One study concluded that capsaicin improved sexual behavior in male rats, but no research suggests the same may be true for humans.

Dwarf palm

While saw palmetto is often recommended for increasing libido in both men and women, there is little evidence to support it.

In fact, the 2009 systematic review came to a different conclusion. Looking at data from several studies, researchers identified decreased libido as a possible side effect of using Saw Palmetto. But little is known about the use of saw palmetto by women.

Chaste tree

Chasteberry, also known as Vitex agnus-castus or monk’s spice, is a popular herbal supplement used in many women’s reproductive health issues.

Although research suggests chaste tree may improve PMS symptoms, there is no scientific evidence to support its potential benefits for female sexual desire.

FIG

Another commonly recommended aphrodisiac, figs, is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. But the jury is out on its influence on libido.

Bananas

Some believe that bananas can increase libido, but again, there is little scientific evidence to support it.

However, bananas are a great source of potassium, which helps in the synthesis of testosterone. While testosterone is generally considered a male hormone, testosterone is also found in women, and low testosterone can negatively affect libido.

Potatoes

Potatoes are another popular aphrodisiac, despite the lack of scientific evidence.

But potatoes and sweet potatoes are high in potassium, which means they offer the same health benefits as bananas.

Things to avoid

While it is generally safe to experiment with natural food-based aphrodisiacs, there are certain supplements that you want to avoid.

Yohimbine

Despite their popularity, yohimbine (or yohimbe) supplements are potentially harmful. Not only are they banned in several countries, the study found that most of the labels on the label do not correctly state the amount of yohimbine or any of the known unwanted side effects.

spanish fly

Another aphrodisiac that you should avoid due to its potentially dangerous side effects is the Spanish fly. Common side effects of the Spanish fly include difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, painful urination, and blood in the urine.

Keep in mind that most of what you find today are not Spanish flies. In most cases, this is a blend of other herbs that has no proven benefits.

When to consult a doctor

Even if your libido fluctuations are completely normal, consider talking to your healthcare professional or sex therapist if this becomes a persistent problem.

The American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) provides a national list of providers.

Perhaps you are dealing with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) which is now known as Sexual Interest / Arousal Disorder in women. It can affect anyone and can be a sign of basic health.