Across a varied range of aphrodisiac foods, spices, herbs, and plant-based and non-plant-based substances, Cline says they “ideally [increase] blood flow to genitals or get some of those neurochemicals flowing,” such as oxytocin or dopamine, which are neurotransmitters and hormones our brains release during sex. That said, while people often slurp down oysters in hopes that they’re an aphrodisiac, Cline says there isn’t enough scientific evidence to support many of the aphrodisiacs of pop culture. She explains that when studied, most research doesn’t confirm that foods often considered being aphrodisiacs—such as cocoa, berries, or food resembling genitalia—create a meaningful [sexual] response. “These foods may increase vital nutrients, such as zinc or magnesium, which help your body function properly (including sexual function), but [they aren’t] the pop of horniness that is claimed,” Cline says. Some aphrodisiacs have more scientific evidence behind them1 than others. Among those substances claiming aphrodisiac properties that don’t have solid evidence, Sweet notes that a placebo effect is often the true science driving their success as sexual enhancers. “In these cases, the aphrodisiacs work because the person using them believes that they’ll work.” Similarly, Cline says, “Many aphrodisiacs elicit a placebo effect—the more you think about sex, the more you desire it, and what you think, you become.” Watermelon is a rich source of citrulline, a naturally occurring amino acid, which Hoppe explains relaxes and dilates blood vessels, similar to Viagra and other drugs aimed at treating erectile dysfunction. “All that citrulline results in increased blood flow, blood vessel relaxation, and sexual arousal,” which may lead to improvements in blood flow to the erectile tissue and the clitoral area, Hoppe explains. Still, don’t expect an immediate effect with this aphrodisiac. Because citrulline is most concentrated in watermelon rinds, Hoppe says you’d have to eat lots of them to achieve the desired effect. Although maca is generally considered safe, more research is needed to better understand its adverse effects. However, both Hoppe and Gloria Tsang, a registered dietitian and founder of Simply Zero Foods, believe they can be effective in certain quantities. “A lot of shellfish—including oysters, clams, crabs, lobsters, and mussels—are high in zinc, which can trigger a surge in the production of sex hormones,” notes Tsang. Hoppe adds that oysters also contain large amounts of the amino acid tyrosine, a nutrient included in the production of dopamine. Not only does saffron seem to have aphrodisiac properties for both men and women, but some studies have also shown it may help with depression symptoms8, PMS symptoms9, and even insulin resistance10. Here are some foods high in antioxidants: You can try taking magnesium supplements (our favorites here), and you can get eat magnesium-rich foods such as the following: Why is this important? Because low testosterone is associated with low libido, fatigue, and even erectile dysfunction. Testosterone significantly increases sex drive, making zinc a bedrock for sexual function. According to one study, zinc is essential for male fertility15. Consider upping your intake of these zinc-heavy foods: Here are a few foods that are more legend than science when it comes to stimulating the parts of your brain and body that increase sex drive: Gentle warning: Before taking any of these herbs as aphrodisiacs to boost libido or enhance sexual pleasure, be sure to consult your doctor(s), especially if you currently take other medication. Like all aphrodisiacs, conclusions on whether Ginkgo truly benefits sexual health are mixed. But clinical studies18 that link the herb to improved sexual health show that it increases nitric oxide levels in blood, which is one of the keys to achieving and maintaining an erection. For people with vaginas, this herb’s ability to stimulate blood flow means it may potentially help with increased vaginal arousal, pleasure, and orgasms. How does this herb work? Yohimbe stimulates spinal nerve centers and blocks the receptors in your body that prohibit erections (alpha-2 adrenergic receptors). Evidence is limited on its effectiveness, so take caution with this aphrodisiac before jumping right in, and be wary of its known side effects20, such as anxiety, weakness, overstimulation, and hallucinations. Although few studies prove this plant’s effectiveness, some pilot studies have found supplements containing Damiana leaf may enhance sexual satisfaction and desire as well as increase clitoral sensitivity, vaginal lubrication, and even orgasm frequency. While they can definitely help with that for some people, too much likely won’t get you going. Alcohol can cause problems with erections in people with penises, and either substance might make you too tired to even have sex. Moderation is key with these. To reduce your stress levels (and increase your pleasure levels), consider meditation, yoga, more exercise, or setting firmer boundaries to achieve a better life balance! You can: If you want to increase your desire for sex or address concerns you think may be affecting your drive, therapy is a great option to consider—whether individual therapy, couples therapy, or sex therapy. Who said achieving orgasm can’t involve teamwork? In the meantime, learn more about low libido issues, libido killers, and how you and a partner with mismatched sex drives can meet in the middle.
