You’ve probably heard of natural aphrodisiacs, a class of foods and herbs purported to boost libido and increase sexual desire. But do they actually work? Well, that depends.
Certain foods have been lauded as aphrodisiacs for centuries, thanks to their suggestive shape (think: figs, papaya…peach emoji, anyone?), or just by association (strawberries and chocolate have long been synonymous with February 14). And while there is some verity to why oysters are considered an aphrodisiac—most likely due to their being high in zinc, which is helpful for sexual hormone production–slurping down a half-dozen doesn’t totally guarantee you’ll be in the mood for sexytime in 20 minutes.
However, research has shown that the placebo effect of eating aphrodisiac foods might outweigh the actual physiologic effects. Basically, just the simple idea that you’re eating something that’s supposed to get you in the mood can actually trick your brain into thinking you’re ready for sex. Natural aphrodisiacs are biologically supposed to work by stimulating more blood flow to the sex organs, but your brain can naturally do this, too, with a little encouragement. So go ahead, nosh those figs drizzled in olive oil or strawberries dipped in chocolate to your heart’s content.
In my nutrition practice, I’m always searching for the root cause of imbalance, illness or disease. If a client complains of low libido, I do my best digging to figure out what’s at the core of the issue. Is it a hormonal imbalance? Too much stress? Lack of self-care? In most cases, it’s usually a mix of all three (blame it on our busy-glorifying culture). That’s where herbal medicines come in.
These ancient herbal remedies are tried-and-tested natural aphrodisiacs that have been passed down from traditional medicine for centuries. They often work by supporting a healthy hormone balance, and yes, increasing blood flow to your sexy bits to help you feel more grounded and *in* your body. They also may help relax the mind to get you into that blissed-out state.
But it’s crucial to note that while herbal aphrodisiacs do work, they aren’t miracle workers. If you’re in an acute state of high stress, they’re not going to bring you down ASAP. Think of them as gentle mood-enhancers, not mood-changers.
Here are a few of my favorite herbal formulas to bring on the l-o-v-e.
Shatavari
A primary adaptogenic herb known for supporting the female hormones, shatavari is revered in Ayurveda, or traditional Indian medicine, where the name means “She Who Possesses 100 Husbands.” Research studies have discovered that it is a powerful aphrodisiac, overall female tonic and helps fight stress and burnout.
Shop It: Moon Juice Sex Dust
Reishi
An adaptogenic mushroom known for its supportive actions on the brain and immune system, animal studies using reishi have also displayed its aphrodisiac qualities. In traditional medicine, reishi is used for maintaining balance and helping the body become more resilient to stress over time. It (luckily) tastes like deep, smoky chocolate and is best when mixed with, you guessed it: chocolate.
Shop It: Mushroom Hot Cacao With Reishi
Maca
Another well-known hormone balancer, maca hails from Latin America, where it’s prized for its fertility-boosting abilities. It’s also known to supercharge your sex drive and improve sexual function in both men and women. A cruciferous root vegetable, maca tastes fairly neutral and is easily blended into smoothies and soups.
Shop It: Moon Juice Maca
Damiana
A potent plant with powerful aphrodisiac effects, a dose of the extract of this herb can help you feel mega-relaxed and blissful–and definitely in the mood. Native to Texas and Mexico, damiana was actually used in the first formulations of Coca Cola. Add a dropperful to an herbal elixir with vanilla, cinnamon, and coffee and sip slowly.
Shop It: La Abeja Herbs Damiana Sensual Tincture
Have a wellness question for Jessica? Ask in the comments!
Jessica Waller is a clinical nutritionist and health and wellness writer with a passion for science-backed self-care. She’s always on the lookout for healthyish comfort-food recipes, statement shoes, and new wellness trends to obsess over (earthing, anyone?). Find her most recent musings on nutrition and self-care at WELLTRIBE.
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