Lifestyle Changes to Improve Female Sexual Desire

All of our authored content is medically reviewed for accuracy and reliability. Absorption Pharmaceuticals LLC (Promescent) has strict informational citing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic or research institutions, medical associations, and medical experts.

• Use of natural aphrodisiacs like oysters is common.
• Ensuring skin health influences sexual confidence.
• Managing anxiety can directly impact desire.
• Herbal capsules may improve sexual energy.
• Maintaining a positive body image boosts libido.
• Supportive friendships encourage emotional openness.
• Avoiding excessive sugar intake benefits hormonal health.
• Listening to sensual music enhances arousal.

We attempt to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references and only citing trustworthy sources. Each article is reviewed, written, and updated by Medical Professionals or authoritative Experts in a specific, related field of practice. You can find out more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

7. L-citrulline

Prominent health websites have also noted that it can help balance hormones, which may help with increasing low libido. Many men and women use fennel seed as an aphrodisiac that enhances sex drive and maintains libido in women and men. In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, post-menopausal women saw an improvement in sexual satisfaction when using a fennel vaginal cream. Fennel seed helps oxygen reach the brain and is an excellent source of libido-boosting nutrients, including manganese, calcium, iron, and fiber. Suma root has been used as traditional medicine in Brazil for numerous ailments such as stress and fatigue.

What causes low libido in females? +

While more testing on humans is needed, one study found that suma root boosted sex hormone levels in both male and female mice. Sometimes you might need a little more to accelerate your sexual desire. Studies suggest that women can benefit sexually from exercise. A good workout activates a woman's hormones, neurotransmitters, and autonomic nervous system. It also maintains an enzyme that increases blood flow to the genitals and arousal.

What can you do to improve your libido and sexual performance?

One case-control study showed that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) saw an increase in libido when exercise was introduced to their lifestyle. Taking a nutritional approach to increase your sex drive may mean changing what you eat. In one study, young women reported an improvement in their sex life after consuming an apple a day. Other foods that may boost female libido include: Some use cigarettes and alcohol to relieve stress. In reality, both substances can worsen anxiety and tension. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023. Cohen AJ, Bartlik B.

Ginkgo biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. A placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of Ginkgo biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. O'Leary MF, Jackman SR, Sabou VR, Campbell MI, Tang JCY, Dutton J, Bowtell JL. Shatavari Supplementation in Postmenopausal Women Improves Handgrip Strength and Increases Vastus lateralis Myosin Regulatory Light Chain Phosphorylation but Does Not Alter Markers of Bone Turnover. Impact of stress on female reproductive health disorders: Possible beneficial effects of shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). Farnia V, Alikhani M, Ebrahimi A, Golshani S, Sadeghi Bahmani D, Brand S. Ginseng treatment improves the sexual side effects of methadone maintenance treatment.

5. 🍑 Peach and Apricot: hormonal sweetness & beta-carotene

Supplements such as Libido Booster for Women contain these and other herbs that may help with low libido. Along with herbs, diet changes, exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, acupuncture, and yoga are also good natural ways to improve your sexual health. Speaking with a doctor can help you determine the best treatment plan for restoring your sex drive. Our team has over a decade of experience in the sexual wellness field and are experts in sexual dysfunctions, like premature ejaculation. We help couples and individuals better understand treatment options available for different types of sexual needs and educate the public on all things related to intimacy. Dording CM, Schettler PJ, Dalton ED, Parkin SR, Walker RS, Fehling KB, Fava M, Mischoulon D.

• Avoid endocrine disruptors found in plastics.
• Vitamin B complex can support energy and desire.
• A herbal blend containing ginseng may be beneficial.
• Consider natural hormone-balancing supplements.
• Small doses of testosterone therapy may be considered.
• Playing romantic music can set a sensual mood.
• Ensuring privacy can improve sexual confidence.
• Counseling or therapy can address emotional barriers.

A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of maca root as treatment for fildena tablet antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction in women. Beharry S, Heinrich M. Is the hype around the reproductive health claims of maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) justified? 2023 Mar 24;15(4):1057.

Causes of low libido

On top of that, the chemicals in cigarettes have been shown to negatively impact testosterone and estrogen, which play a huge role in sexual desire. When it comes to alcohol, studies show that consuming too much can decrease sexual stimulation, vaginal lubrication, and difficulty achieving orgasm. However, a glass of wine has been shown to improve sexual function. Acupuncture is a treatment that has no serious side effects and is proven to treat low libido in women. Another upside to acupuncture is that it can reduce stress, tension, and even insomnia, improving the desire for sex.

Is low libido common in women? +

Studies suggest massages offer some of the same benefits if needles aren't your thing. A soft-touch massage from your partner can relieve some daily stress and potentially rev up your sex drive. Medications that treat cancer, depression, and other ailments may cause sexual low libido in women. Some vardenafil tablets that can potentially cause low sex-drive include: Discuss with your doctor ways to manage or adjust the dosage. Do not stop taking medication until you consult with your personal physician.

More Information

Low libido can sometimes be a more serious medical issue, such as female sexual arousal disorder A low sex drive can also be a red flag for an underlying condition. Nonsexual diseases that can cause low libido include: A doctor can help diagnose your libido issues. They can test your hormone levels and recommend natural ways to increase sex drive. Yoga offers women numerous benefits to overall health, including sexual health. One study found that practicing yoga increased libido, arousal, orgasm, and bedroom satisfaction. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041057. Dongre S, Langade D, Bhattacharyya S. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. Kashani L, Raisi F, Saroukhani S, Sohrabi H, Modabbernia A, Nasehi AA, Jamshidi A, Ashrafi M, Mansouri P, Ghaeli P, Akhondzadeh S. Saffron for treatment of fluoxetine-induced sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study.

Akhtari E, Raisi F, Keshavarz M, Hosseini H, Sohrabvand F, Bioos S, Kamalinejad M, Ghobadi A. Tribulus terrestris for treatment of sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo - controlled study. Rao A, Steels E, Beccaria G, Inder WJ, Vitetta L. Influence of a Specialized Trigonella foenum-graecum Seed Extract (Libifem), on Testosterone, Estradiol and Sexual Function in Healthy Menstruating Women, a Randomised Placebo Controlled Study. Fenugreek and Its Effects on Muscle Performance: A Systematic Review. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012-. Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Talbott SM, Talbott JA, George A, Pugh M.

7. Mind-Body Practices: Foundational Support

Most research suggesting that fenugreek helps low libido is male-focused. But fenugreek shows potential as one of the herbs to increase libido in females. Epimedium, otherwise known as horny goat weed, was named because Chinese goat farmers discovered its potent effects on their livestock. Horny goat weed extract has been used to improve sexual dysfunction and treat menstrual cramps, osteoporosis, and potentially heart disease. While various sources conclude that it can improve libido, scientific studies and trials on the effects of epimedium on human libido are limited, especially in women.

3. Shatavari

As one of the oldest aphrodisiacs, Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has been traditionally used for many ailments. Some evidence indicates that Damiana has the potential for improving sexual desire. However, it should be noted that Damiana may not be safe if taken in high doses. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking it. Tongkat Ali, or longack, is another ancient herb that's been used for centuries to address a lack of sexual desire.

4. Work With a Therapist

While men traditionally use Tongkat ali, the herb has shown potential for balancing hormone levels and reducing stress and tension in women. In one pilot study, Tongkat Ali elevated age-related symptoms and helped balance hormones. Hormonal imbalance can sometimes be a cause of low libido. Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) is a small shrub in the Mediterranean region that produces red berries. Chasteberry has become a regularly used supplement for women to increase fertility and decrease premenstrual symptoms, including breast pain. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects.

Birth Control & Low Libido

Some women find that therapy helps address the root causes of the lack of interest in sex, such as poor body image, a history of abuse, and depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) are proven ways for women to find the psychological reason behind their sexual dysfunction. Low libido is a common sexual dysfunction that affects many women. Understanding how to boost sex drive naturally can help you take back control of your sexual health. Herbs such as ashwagandha and tribulus terrestris can be effective in boosting sex drive. Tongkat Ali as a potential herbal supplement for physically active male and female seniors--a pilot study. "Chasteberry - National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health." Nccih.nih.gov, 2023, Accessed on Aug, 10, 2023. Abedi P, Najafian M, Yaralizadeh M, Namjoyan F. Effect of fennel vaginal cream on sexual function in postmenopausal women: A double blind randomized controlled trial. The roles of testosterone and alpha-amylase in exercise-induced sexual arousal in women. Impact of Physical Resistance Training on the Sexual Function of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Cai T, Gacci M, Mattivi F, Mondaini N, Migno S, Boddi V, Gacci P, Detti B, Gontero P, Chiodini S, Mereu L, Tateo S, Mazzoli S, Malossini G, Bartoletti R.

• Adaptogenic herbs help combat fatigue and boost desire.
• Staying physically active improves blood flow.
• Maintaining a healthy gut supports hormone synthesis.
• Daily self-care routines promote overall health.
• Open communication with partners increases intimacy.
• Avoiding stress triggers preserves hormonal balance.
• Practicing gratitude enhances emotional closeness.
• Regular massage can relax and stimulate desire.