Do you want to ramp up your sex drive and feel more frisky in general? Most people wouldn’t think to go to the kitchen, but that might be the best choice you could make.
Before we dive into the details, it’s important to note that there’s no wrong or right sex drive for women. There certainly isn’t a rule of how often you should have sex.
Typically, sex drives are finicky. Many things can slightly change it, including your stress levels and menstrual cycle. However, a sudden change in female libido might be a sign of a medical condition, and you should talk to a doctor about that. We’ll discuss that later.
Here is a roundup of the foods that could boost libido in women, including some that have significant research attached to them. Others might be more like wives’ tales, but they could help you.
What’s Libido in Women and Why Is It Important?
Libido is the word used to describe how strong or weak you feel about sexual intimacy. Many have a strong urge, which indicates a high libido. Others are within the average or middle range. However, there are some who have a low libido or sex drive.
Many women wonder how much sex they should have each week to feel satisfaction and happiness. Is once a year enough, or do you require it every month or week? The answer could be multiple times per day, daily, or never.
It’s important to take time and answer that question for you. This gives you an idea of your libido range and spectrum.
However, it’s often unwise to compare yourself to other women. Everyone has unique and changing sex drives!
Now that we’ve said that, there are many factors at play for libido in males and females. You should consider better women’s sexual health now so that you boost your sex drive later. Considerations include:
- Psychological factors (stress)
- Social factors (home and work relationships)
- Age (you have a lower sex drive as you get older)
- Lifestyle conditions (exercise, diet, and more)
- Self-image (do you often view yourself positively?)
Most women experience daily ups and downs in their sex drives, as well. However, there’s no need to worry about things if you and your partner are both happy. If not, there are ways you can boost your sex drive and various positive changes you could make!
Can Food Boost Sexual Function and Desire?
Here’s some great news! Foods can boost your sexual performance and sex drive! Putting healthy and clean foods in your body will help it perform better at all levels, which includes sex.
Therefore, it’s generally true. When you get better fuel, you have an excellent performance. That might involve heading to the bedroom for some fun time or hitting a baseball.
Consuming appropriate food results in your circulatory system performing well. Cardiac health also improves when you have a healthy diet, which leads to more sexual stamina in the bedroom.
However, there’s more! Sex starts in the brain. When you consume a healthy diet, you can think more clearly. Since you’re promoting brain health, you could manage any mental health issue easily. Depression and anxiety can definitely interfere with your sex life and might lead to being unfulfilled.
When you put it all together, the items on your menu matter significantly for your sexual quality and libido. However, every food doesn’t offer the same value. Therefore, it’s best to go natural when possible. For example, foods that have 50 ingredients and a five-year shelf life don’t do you any favors. Instead, here are the things you should eat to increase female sex drive.
Herbs and Foods Backed by Evidence to Promote Sexual Desire
Some foods, including herbs, have been studied and shown to increase sex drive in a handful of studies and for some women. However, most of the research hasn’t been rigorous or large, so you can’t put all of your dreams and hopes on them.
It’s also important to remember one thing about herbal supplements: Doses can vary between products, so you should always follow the instructions on the label and go by the manufacturer’s guidelines.
On that note, you might also want to discuss things with a pharmacist or healthcare provider. Let them know that you crave better women’s sexual health and wish to take supplements. Those products might interact with:
- Vitamins
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescription medications
- Other herbal supplements
Let’s get started on products that promote a healthy libido:
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is one of many popular herbal supplement options that comes in many forms. Research has suggested that it can be effective and act as a natural aphrodisiac.
However, the results of one study on using Ginkgo Biloba are inconclusive. No one knows if it really boosts sexual function within females.
If you suffer from sexual dysfunction and don’t take many other medications, you can try it for yourself. Purchase it online or from health food stores as:
- Dried leaves
- Tea
- Liquid extracts
- Capsules
- Tablets
Ginseng
If you need a different supplement that’s still easy to find and readily available, ginseng is a popular choice. It offers many health benefits! In fact, a recent study showed that ginseng worked better than a placebo to combat sexual dysfunction in those who were on a methadone maintenance treatment.
No one is sure how ginseng might affect the sexual performance of those not using methadone, though. More research is required, though researchers do know that a ginseng treatment improves immunity.
You can buy ginseng at almost all health food stores or online, and it comes as:
- Powder
- Liquid extracts
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Raw and fresh ginseng
Maca
One study indicates that maca could be a potential treatment for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction for postmenopausal women. Plus, it’s historically been used to improve sexual desire and fertility.
The research is promising, but one recent review claims that the information on sexual dysfunction could be overblown a little.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus Terrestris is another herbal supplement that could be effective and increase sexual desire and libido in women. One study focused on whether 7.5 mg of the extract could help with female sexual interest/arousal disorder.
After just four weeks, women who took this extract had improvement in their satisfaction and desire. However, there’s a downside. Though it might be enough for women’s sexual arousal to improve, the study was fairly small and only included 60 participants.
If you’re interested in Tribulus Terrestris, you may find it harder to purchase than other herbs listed here. It’s wise to go online and use a reputable company. The supplement is available as:
- Powder
- Liquid extracts
- Capsules
Saffron
Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world, but it’s popular because most people think it’s an aphrodisiac. Early research actually backs up this claim. In one study, those who took antidepressants saw an improvement in women’s sexual arousal after only taking it for four weeks.
However, you should be aware that the study noted improvements in sexual arousal, but it didn’t really help with sexual desire.
As with other exotic spices and products, it’s difficult to find saffron threads unless you go to a spice shop or specialty grocery store. Generally, it’s best to buy it online, and it’s available in capsules and powders.
Red Wine
Red wine is highly regarded as a natural aphrodisiac, and it’s also useful for lowering the risk of certain diseases, such as heart disease. One 2009 study showed that women who consume red wine might improve their sexual function.
As with all studies, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the research only used a small sample size. More research will be necessary to determine how valuable red wine is and how it might boost your sexual performance.
You should be aware that drinking too much alcohol of any kind can negatively impact your libido. Moderation is crucial for your sex drive and health.
Apples
You might not realize it, but apple consumption can have a positive effect on the female sex drive! One study showed that those who ate an apple a day had better sexual quality and a decent sex life.
It sounds very promising, and it is. However, the study only suggested a correlation between sexual health and apple consumption. Therefore, it’s unclear if eating an apple might directly affect sexual function. Likewise, no major studies have shown whether apples increase libido.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is one type of herb that can be used for cooking and in supplement form. Research suggests that it might boost libido. In fact, one study found that Fenugreek could be a highly effective treatment to boost the female sex drive. However, most current research focuses more on male sexual health.
Though it’s promising that Fenugreek is good for male sexual health, that might not indicate that it will increase libido in women. It’s important to form your own conclusions.
You can easily find Fenugreek in spice shops, grocery stores, and online. It’s available as:
- Powder
- Liquid extracts
- Capsules
- Seeds
Foods That Improve Sexual Health with Anecdotal Evidence
Some foods and herbs have been utilized to boost libido for decades or longer throughout history. However, they’re not backed by evidence. Some swear by them, and you might already have them available in your pantry or kitchen. Therefore, they’re easy to try and could increase libido significantly!
Dark Chocolate
Most people wish to improve their love lives and are happy to find out that dark chocolate is beneficial. It will increase dopamine and serotonin levels in your brain. Those are the feel-good neurotransmitters.
Cocoa also has an antioxidant called flavanol, which can relax blood vessels and boost blood flow within the body. Therefore, you get the blood flow you require at the right time for a healthy libido.
However, the amount of flavanols found in dark chocolate can vary significantly based on the brand and how it’s produced. The best source comes from your unsweetened cocoa powder. You can also buy fortified powder, but it should promise about 200 mg of flavanols for each serving.
There are countless dark chocolate brands available on the market. However, it’s wise to choose a less processed one if you hope to get better sexual quality.
Though chocolate is highly popular, one study from 2006 concluded that eating chocolate didn’t really make a huge difference on the female sex drive.
Coffee
There’s no evidence to support the claim that coffee is a natural aphrodisiac, though it can improve a person’s mood. One study from the University of Texas Health Centre shows that it has similar qualities to prescription medications, such as Viagra. In a related topic, have you seen the Viagra for women?
Nitric oxide and caffeine are prevalent here. Caffeine triggers pharmacological effects on the genitals, which causes the vaginal arteries to relax. When used with other products or prescriptions, it might prevent sexual dysfunction, but there’s no proof.
Green Tea
Whether you like it cold or hot, green tea could bring heat to your sex life! Catechins are often found in the beverage, and these compounds can reduce belly fat and boost blood flow.
There are two ways the catechins improve blood flow. Initially, they eliminate the free radicals that inflame and harm your blood vessels. That means they transport blood more effectively.
Then, catechins help those blood vessel cells get rid of nitric oxide, so that increases their size and offers improved blood flow.
Most people believe they must consume green tea straight, but there are other methods of integrating it into your diet. For example, you can use it in oatmeal and smoothies or add green tea powders to baked goods or yogurt.
Fatty Fish
If fish is prepared correctly, it will give you dietary benefits. However, some species are more helpful for improving libido. Oily or fatty fish, such as tuna, salmon, and sardines, are loaded with those omega-3 fatty acids. They boost dopamine levels in the brain and also promote blood flow and heart health.
Since fish is high in protein and vitamin B6, it also promotes healthier blood production. There aren’t many foods that have the unique benefits of fish. Therefore, you may increase your sex drive simply because you feel full and look great.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are one of the best foods out there for sexual health improvement. They’re rich in potassium, protein, fiber, iron, and zinc. Though zinc can improve your immune function, eye health, and wound healing, it can also boost your sex drive!
Primarily, it’s known to help men with their sexual needs. However, a zinc deficiency is bad for everyone. In males, it can lead to lower testosterone levels. Scientists are now studying why zinc is crucial for healthy testosterone levels.
You can easily add pumpkin seeds to cereal, salads, and trail mix. If you dislike the texture, chop them up so that you don’t notice them!
Avocado
Avocado is a culinary favorite because it’s so versatile. They also have significant vitamin E levels, so they promote healthy skin and nails.
In fact, avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, potassium, and vitamin B6, which promote better circulation and heart health, that are crucial for a good sex life.
The natural benefits avocados offer prevents artery damage. Though we are focused on female sexual health, men with heart disease are more likely to get erectile dysfunction. If you have better sexual health but your partner doesn’t, things could become lopsided once more.
One study showed that eating avocados could reduce metabolic syndrome, which is a factor for erectile dysfunction. Those with it are almost twice as likely to struggle with ED.
Consider mashing the avocado on toast in the morning or create salsa from it and dip in some chips!
Pomegranates
One two-week study at Queen Mary University in Edinburgh showed that consuming pomegranate juice each day significantly increased testosterone levels for men and women.
Besides that, pomegranate juice intake can enhance blood flow, which improves female libido. The main reason this happens is because of the antioxidants.
Pomegranates are a unique and healthy sweet treat alone. However, you can add them to yogurt, cereal, or salad. Whether you’re focused on libido for men or women, this should be in your arsenal!
Watermelon
Most people enjoy summer gatherings because they get to eat watermelon. Did you know that it does more than refresh you on a hot day? Watermelon contains vitamin B5, which is crucial for stress management. High stress levels could cause libido to plummet in men and women.
Since watermelon decreases the stress in your body, you want to have sex, which eliminates cortisol, too. Likewise, it contains other B vitamins that can help with energy production and sexual endurance. It also widens the blood vessels, so it promotes blood circulation to the sex organs. Even if it doesn’t increase libido, it still tastes great!
Beef
Beef rarely makes it on the list of what to consume to increase libido, but it’s worth the consideration. The saturated fats in beef are crucial for sex hormones, such as testosterone.
Likewise, beef contains zinc, which is crucial for a higher sex drive and fertility. Along with that, it’s rich in iron, so you improve blood flow and energy levels.
Whether you’re grilling or marinating beef, your sexual health will be happy. It’s always wise to go with lean cuts of meat, but anything that tastes good will work in moderation.
Garlic
Garlic has higher levels of allicin, which promote blood circulation to the sex organs. It’s found in almost every kitchen, but it must be fresh to get the most benefit from it.
Honey
Some say that honey promotes better sexual health. While it does contain many antioxidants, science hasn’t shown that it will boost your libido. However, it’s still a healthy product, so it can’t hurt if you consume it in moderation.
Strawberries
Typically, strawberries are associated with sex because of their shape and taste. They can boost the sex drive in men and women. Though they’re tasty treats, they’re also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, and vitamin C, which can promote blood flow to your sex organs when the time is right.
Raw Oysters
The original Casanova claimed to have begun each day by consuming 50 raw oysters. Females and males report a higher sex drive after eating them. However, no evidence is available to support the claims.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the active component in chili peppers, and it provides many health benefits, such as a higher sex drive. One study concluded that it improved the sexual behavior of male rats, but no research suggests that’s true for humans and women in particular.
However, it does promote circulation, which is crucial for the sex organs. Likewise, it stimulates the endorphins that raise the female sex drive.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is generally recommended to help boost libido in females and males. However, little evidence is available to support that.
In fact, one 2009 systematic review showed the opposite effect. Researchers checked data from multiple studies, indicating that a side effect of regular moderate intake did not increase libido in men. Still, little is known about it in women.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry is also called monk’s pepper or Vitex agnus-castus. The popular herbal supplement has been used for various female reproductive issues.
Research does suggest that it can improve PSM (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms, but now scientific evidence shows that it can benefit the female sex drive.
Figs
Figs are often called an aphrodisiac, and they’re rich in minerals and vitamins. However, there’s no information suggesting that they can improve your sex drive.
Bananas
Some people believe bananas boost libido. Again, no scientific evidence supports the claim.
However, bananas have plenty of potassium, which can help with testosterone synthesis. Though this is often a male hormone, females require it too. If you have low testosterone, you may have a poor sex drive.
Potatoes
Potatoes, mainly sweet potatoes, are popular as well. They have plenty of potassium, so they could boost your sex drive, though the claim isn’t proven.
Other Ways to Become Sweeter in Bed
Food is a great way to increase libido and promote a higher sex drive, but here are a few other options:
Get Plenty of Sleep
Sleep is crucial for your health, including the sex drive. A study shows that more sleep matched with a higher sexual desire that next day. Then, another study indicated the connection between sexual function and sleep quality. Shorter sleep durations and insomnia were associated primarily with a lower sexual function.
Reduce Stress Levels
Stress negatively impacts other areas of your health, including the sex drive. One study showed a correlation between female sexual dissatisfaction and job stress. This indicates that extra stress could lower your libido.
Check Medications
Some medications could affect your sex drive. Studies indicate that antidepressants are linked to less sexual desire. It’s wise to talk to your doctor to manage the potential side effects of those drugs. They might be able to adjust the dosage.
Exercise
Exercise can significantly increase sexual desire. One study found that resistance training promoted more sexual desire and excitement in women who have PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Plus, exercise reduces stress, which can help, too!
Acupuncture
Additional research is necessary, but one review from 2008 showed that acupuncture could boost a woman’s sex drive. It also relieves stress, insomnia, and anxiety, which could be underlying causes of a libido decrease.
Massage also works well if you’re worried about acupuncture. A study from 2008 indicated that touching a partner can reduce stress, which might boost libido.
Practice Mindfulness
When you learn to be present in the moment and more mindful, you can change your sex drive! Mindfulness is a great way to reduce stress; research suggests that it could improve sexual desire!
Yoga
Yoga provides many benefits, and that could include improving your sex life. A study from 2010 concluded that yoga practice for 12 weeks significantly improved desire, lubrication, arousal, satisfaction, orgasm, and pain during sexual activity.
When to See Your Doctor
Libido fluctuations are perfectly normal, but you might want to talk to a healthcare professional if it’s an ongoing problem.
You might suffer from female sexual interest/arousal disorder or HSDD (hypoactive sexual desire disorder). It affects all types and can include these symptoms:
- Lack of pleasure during sexual activity
- Disinterest in sexual activity
- Rarely having sexual fantasies and thoughts
- No/little interest in sexual activities
FAQs
What Foods Make Women Wet?
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce dryness, enhance blood flow, and offer vaginal lubrication, which promotes a healthy sex drive. However, it’s not only about food; your physical and emotional health are also important!
What’s Libido?
Libido focuses on how weak or strong your sexual intimacy desires are. They can alter daily when you’re exposed to various biological, psychological, or social factors.
Is a Low Sex Drive Bad for You?
Having a low sex drive isn’t life-threatening. However, some women feel negatively with a low sex drive. For example, you may have less confidence, no motivation, low energy, and a poor mood.
Conclusion
If you find that you’re not getting sexual arousal as often as you used to do, it might be what you’re eating. You’ve learned about the many foods that make a woman sweet in bed. Consider trying some or all of them for yourself. Just ensure that you speak to a doctor before trying new supplements to avoid medication interactions.
It’s possible to change your sex drive by eating right and using supplements!