Libido supplements: what the evidence says (educational review, not medical advice)
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about low sexual desire or sexual function, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary
- “Libido supplements” include herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other products marketed to increase sexual desire.
- Evidence quality varies widely: a few ingredients have moderate evidence; many have limited or inconsistent data.
- Low libido often has medical, psychological, or relationship-related causes that supplements alone may not address.
- Some products can interact with medications or cause side effects.
- Lifestyle measures (sleep, stress reduction, exercise) have stronger overall health benefits and may improve sexual well-being.
What is known
Low libido is common and multifactorial
Sexual desire naturally fluctuates. Persistent low libido can be related to stress, depression, anxiety, hormonal changes (such as menopause or low testosterone), chronic illness, medication side effects (e.g., antidepressants), relationship difficulties, or pain during sex. Major organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Mayo Clinic emphasize evaluating underlying causes before focusing on supplements.
Some herbal ingredients have limited but suggestive evidence
Several plant-based products are frequently marketed as natural libido boosters:
- Maca (Lepidium meyenii): Small clinical trials suggest possible improvement in sexual desire in some men and women. Effects are modest, and studies are often short-term.
- Panax ginseng: Some evidence supports improved sexual function, particularly erectile function, with possible indirect effects on desire.
- Tribulus terrestris: Mixed evidence; some small studies suggest improved desire in women, but results are inconsistent.
- Fenugreek: Preliminary studies suggest possible benefit in sexual arousal or desire, but data are limited.
Overall, many studies are small, use different outcome measures, or are funded by manufacturers, which lowers confidence in the results.
Hormonal factors play a key role
Testosterone influences sexual desire in all genders. In people with clinically confirmed hormone deficiency, medical treatment under supervision may help. However, over-the-counter “testosterone boosters” are not regulated like prescription medications and often lack strong evidence.
In postmenopausal women, hormonal changes can contribute to reduced desire and vaginal dryness. Evidence-based treatments may include prescription therapies, not just supplements. Guidance from organizations such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends individualized evaluation.
Nutrient deficiencies may contribute in specific cases
Iron deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, and poorly controlled chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disease) can affect energy and well-being, indirectly influencing libido. Correcting documented deficiencies may help overall health, but taking high doses without confirmed deficiency is not proven to enhance sexual desire.
What is unclear / where evidence is limited
- Long-term safety: Many libido supplements lack long-term safety data, especially when used for months or years.
- Standardized dosing: Herbal products vary in concentration and purity. Two brands of the “same” supplement may contain different amounts of active compounds.
- Effect size: Even when studies show statistical improvement, the real-world impact may be small.
- Women-specific research: Historically, sexual health research focused more on men. Evidence for female sexual interest/arousal disorders is improving but remains limited for many supplements.
- Interactions: Some herbs (e.g., ginseng) may interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, or antidepressants.
Because dietary supplements are regulated differently from prescription drugs in many countries, product quality and ingredient accuracy may vary.
Overview of approaches
“Libido supplements” is a broad term rather than a single medication. Approaches generally fall into the following categories:
1. Herbal supplements
Examples include maca, ginseng, tribulus, fenugreek, and ashwagandha. These are typically marketed as natural aphrodisiacs. Evidence ranges from low to moderate quality. Benefits, if present, are usually modest.
2. Vitamin and mineral supplements
Common examples include zinc, vitamin D, iron, and B vitamins. These may be helpful if a deficiency is present. In people with normal levels, additional supplementation has not consistently shown increased libido.
3. Hormone-related products
Over-the-counter “testosterone boosters” and DHEA are widely sold. Evidence for non-prescription hormone precursors is mixed, and safety is not fully established. Prescription hormone therapy should only be used under medical supervision according to established clinical guidelines.
4. Combination formulas
Many commercial products combine multiple herbs, vitamins, and amino acids. This makes it difficult to know which ingredient (if any) is responsible for an effect. It also increases the potential for side effects and interactions.
For comparison with evidence-based medical treatments for sexual dysfunction, see our overview in sexual health therapies. You may also find our guide on hormonal balance and wellbeing helpful.
Evidence table
| Statement | Confidence level | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Low libido often has medical or psychological causes. | High | Supported by clinical guidelines and large observational studies. |
| Some herbal supplements may modestly improve sexual desire. | Medium | Small randomized trials suggest benefit, but results are inconsistent. |
| Most over-the-counter libido supplements are highly effective. | Low | Marketing claims exceed the strength of available clinical evidence. |
| Correcting nutrient deficiencies can improve overall well-being and possibly libido. | Medium | Supported when deficiency is documented; not proven in people with normal levels. |
| Long-term safety data for many supplements are limited. | Medium | Few long-duration, high-quality studies available. |
Practical recommendations
General safe measures
- Prioritize sleep: Chronic sleep deprivation reduces energy and sexual interest.
- Manage stress: Mindfulness, therapy, or relaxation techniques may improve desire indirectly.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves mood, cardiovascular health, and body image.
- Limit alcohol and stop smoking: Both can negatively affect sexual function.
- Communicate with your partner: Relationship dynamics strongly influence libido.
When to see a doctor
- Sudden or severe drop in sexual desire.
- Associated symptoms such as fatigue, hair loss, weight change, erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, or pain.
- History of depression, anxiety, or major life stressors.
- Use of medications known to affect sexual function.
- Interest in hormone testing or prescription treatment.
How to prepare for a consultation
- List all medications and supplements you take.
- Note when the problem started and any triggering events.
- Be ready to discuss sleep, stress, mood, and relationship factors.
- Ask about evidence-based options and potential risks.
If you are exploring non-prescription options, review our general guidance in how to evaluate dietary supplements and our article on when to seek medical advice for sexual concerns.
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Female Sexual Dysfunction guidance. https://www.acog.org
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Menopause and sexual health guidance. https://www.nice.org.uk
- Mayo Clinic. Low libido in men and women. https://www.mayoclinic.org
- U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Herbs and supplements overview. https://www.nccih.nih.gov
- Endocrine Society. Clinical practice guidelines on testosterone therapy. https://www.endocrine.org
