The physiological changes that occur in men and women as they age are often accompanied by reduced sexual response and function. This can have a negative impact on self-esteem and personal relationships. Surveys show that the most prevalent sexual concern for women is low desire and for men is erectile difficulties. Although these concerns are different, men and women can help support their libido with the use of herbal aphrodisiacs and essential nutrients needed for sexual health.
Tongkat ali, also known as Malaysian ginseng, is well documented for helping to increase testosterone levels. This effect increases the body’s anabolic status and is believed to further benefit people by improving their libido and fertility. In a clinical study, physically active male and female seniors were supplemented with 400 mg of tongkat ali extract per day for five weeks. Supplementation benefitted both men and women, with significant increases in total and free testosterone levels as well as muscle strength.
A 12-week placebo-controlled trial supplemented 30–55-year-old men with 300 mg of a tongkat ali extract per day. A series of questionnaires on quality of life and sexual well-being, in addition to seminal fluid analysis, showed that tongkat ali helps improve erectile function, sexual libido, sperm motility, and semen volume.
Epimedium grandiflorum, also known as yin yang huo, is used in herbal medicine as an aphrodisiac and in traditional Chinese medicine for patterns of kidney yang deficiency with symptoms such as spermatorrhea, soreness, and weakness of the lower back and knees. The main bioactive component of Epimedium species is icariin, which has been shown through animal studies to help with erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow and relaxation of smooth muscle tissue.
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has been used historically as a natural aphrodisiac and is a recognized homeopathic aid for sexual debility and central nervous system disorders, such as anxiety. Flavonoids and other compounds present in extracts of Turnera diffusa may participate in its pro-sexual effect, thereby supporting those with sexual dysfunction.
BioPerine is a 50:1 black pepper extract standardized to 95% piperine, an active alkaloid that supports digestive function and enhances the bioavailability of nutrients and herbs. Animal studies show that piperine supplementation improves blood testosterone levels and supports normal levels of serotonin, an important “feel-good” neurotransmitter.
Zinc is an essential mineral needed for protein metabolism and sexual function. It plays a role in the body’s testosterone regulation, with research showing that zinc supplementation helps increase testosterone levels in older men with marginal zinc deficiency. Niacin is also an essential nutrient with important roles in blood lipid levels and sexual health. A placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that 12 weeks of supplementation with niacin improved erectile function in men with moderate-to-severe erectile dysfunction and high blood lipids.
- Contains Epimedium grandiflorum, used in herbal medicine as an aphrodisiac
- Features a 100:1 extract of tongkat ali plus important nutrients for sexual health
- Contains yin yang huo, used in traditional Chinese medicine for symptoms of kidney yang deficiency such as spermatorrhea
- Includes added nutrients involved in sexual health
- Formulated to support a healthy libido in both men and women
- A factor in the maintenance of good health
