Although betel nut may boost libido, it's not recommended for anyone because it is highly addictive. It can also cause a number of adverse side effects, including insomnia and anxiety. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. When choosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist. This expert-backed explainer breaks down the most common natural libido supplements for women, plus what to avoid.

• Avoiding excessive caffeine can prevent overstimulation and hormonal imbalance affecting libido.
• Supplements like D-aspartic acid may support hormone synthesis and increase desire.
• Engaging in new sexual activities or fantasies can enhance arousal and libido.

After menopause, hormone levels drop, vaginal tissue thins, and sleep, mood, and motivation can take a hit. Cue the explosion of “natural” libido supplements, hormone-free creams, and viral sex oil ads claiming to fix it all.

• Aromatherapy with ylang-ylang and rose essential oils can stimulate sexual arousal.
• Herbal teas like chamomile and lavender help reduce stress, which can improve libido.
• Supplements containing L-arginine increase nitric oxide, improving blood flow and desire.

To find out, we spoke with two menopause-focused Northwell Health OB/GYNs—Dr. JoAnna Paolilli and Dr. Stephanie McNally—to learn what they recommend to their patients, and where they draw clear boundaries. This is one of the few treatments that comes up again and again in menopause care for improving both comfort and sexual response. Unlike systemic hormone therapy, this works locally—directly on the vaginal tissue.

What it is: A prescription vaginal insert that helps boost natural lubrication, arousal, and orgasmic response by stimulating local estrogen and testosterone production.

“It’s placed vaginally, and the cells convert it into estrogen and testosterone, which helps with lubrication, pain, arousal, and even orgasm,” explains Paolilli.

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

Its side effects are generally mild and include: Ginseng can also interact with other herbal products and medications, including blood thinners, insulin, and aspirin. Consult your healthcare provider before using ginseng if you take other supplements or medications, you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or have any of the following: Autoimmune disease (multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and others) Hormone-sensitive condition (endometriosis or breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer) Asian ginseng, which includes Chinese, Korean (panax), and red ginseng have the active ingredients that may help improve women's sexual well-being. American ginseng does not have the same effect. DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone the body converts into estrogen and testosterone, hormones that are vital for healthy female sexual function, including libido, orgasm, and sexual pleasure. Research suggests it may boost sexual desire in females, but the evidence is mixed.

How common is low libido in women?

A small study of 50 premenopausal women found that taking 75 milligrams (mg) of DHEA daily for one to two months improved desire, particularly in women who reported low sexual function at the start of the study. A larger review of research, however, found no consistent benefit of DHEA for libido. DHEA may cause side effects such as facial hair growth and acne. And it isn't safe for everyone: People with hormone-sensitive breast or ovarian cancers should not take DHEA. In addition, taking the supplement for extended periods and/or in doses higher than 100 mg per day may increase a person's risk of cancer. By providing your email address, you agree to receive email communication from The Well. If the word “hormone” gives you pause, you're not alone. “Some women are hesitant about estrogen,” she says. It’s a steroid that your body converts into what it needs.” Best for: Women with dryness, discomfort, or decreased sensation during sex who want a targeted, local treatment. From drugstore creams to Instagram-famous “hormone-balancing” serums, plenty of products claim to be a safer, “natural” alternative to hormone replacement therapy.

• Postmenopausal women may benefit from hormone replacement therapy to restore libido.
• Lifestyle factors like smoking cessation can improve vascular health and desire.
• Regular sexual activity increases libido by strengthening intimacy and arousal pathways.

But for many fildena ct of these options, the safety hasn’t been proven.

• Estrogen therapy can be considered for women experiencing libido decline due to menopause.
• Adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha reduce stress and may improve sexual desire.
• Pelvic floor exercises increase blood flow and sensitivity, boosting libido.

What they are: Over-the-counter products often marketed as “bioidentical,” “plant-based,” or “gentle hormone balancers.” “I don’t recommend these,” says Paolilli. “We don’t know what’s in them, or if they’re even safe.” Testosterone is often overlooked in conversations about women’s health, but it plays a real role in sexual desire—and for some postmenopausal women, a low-dose prescription can help. What it is: Low-dose testosterone, compounded from male formulations and used off-label to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

While providers might sometimes prescribe a tenth of the male dose, that small amount can support desire—but too much can lead to side effects.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Zinc supplements are marketed as increasing sexual desire, arousal, and pleasure. A study of postmenopausal women found that zinc supplements increased androgen (testosterone) levels and improved sexual desire, orgasm, arousal, vaginal lubrication, and overall sexual satisfaction. However, the women in the study also had low blood levels of zinc. Women who are not deficient in zinc may not get the same results. Zinc supplements are generally safe to use as long as they don't interact with any medications you take.

2. Maca

Check with your healthcare provider vardenafil canada before starting a zinc supplement. However, taking more than 50 mg of zinc per day may cause nausea, dizziness, headaches, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues. Excess zinc may also interfere with magnesium absorption, resulting in a mineral imbalance. Tribulus terrestris is an herb that may increase sex hormones and nitric oxide. While it's often recommended for male sexual function, few studies have explored its potential in females. “Women may develop hair growth in unwanted places, acne, or even voice changes,” notes Paolilli. “And the voice changes can be permanent.” As a result, doctors should monitor blood levels to make sure testosterone levels stay in a safe range. One form of testosterone that’s never recommended: implants, which can release too much hormone and cause infection related to the insertion site. Best for: Medically supervised care only, under a specialist trained in midlife and sexual health.

Aphrodisiac Herbs

Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a plant that’s native to Peru and related to the cabbage family, contains active ingredients that may mimic estrogen or affect hormone levels in women. As a result, it may improve sexual function and satisfaction. In addition to enhancing sexual function, maca is marketed to regulate menstruation and restore hormonal balance. However, more research is needed to prove its effectiveness. In one study, maca improved sexual dysfunction caused by antidepressants.

Check your medications

It may work best for postmenopausal women, because they had a better response than other study participants. Maca shows promise for helping women achieve sexual satisfaction, and it doesn’t have any known side effects. However, a safe dose has not been established. Women with a history of breast cancer or any hormonal cancer should talk with their healthcare provider before taking this supplement. Zinc is a nutrient found throughout the body that's important for the immune system, metabolism, and the female reproductive system. Not quite ready for prescriptions or hormones? Zestra and Ristela are two over-the-counter options that might offer support without a big commitment.

What is libido?

(High serotonin levels are associated with a low sex drive.) However, there's no research proving kanna has a direct impact on libido. Red clover (Trifolium pratense): Red clover contains plant-based estrogens that may improve vaginal health and lubrication, but there's no evidence it improves sexual desire or function. Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus): Chasteberry may affect female hormones, improving vaginal tone and lubrication in one study. It may improve sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women, but more studies are needed to verify its role in other women. Betel nuts contain natural alkaloids that trigger ed tablets the release of dopamine, a brain chemical that plays a key role in sexual pleasure and arousal. They won’t transform your libido overnight—but they may help some women feel more in tune with their arousal. What they are: Non-hormonal products that may support arousal and orgasm. Zestra is a topical oil blend applied to the clitoral and vulvar areas before intimacy.“It’s something you can get on Amazon,” says Paolilli.

Nugenix® - Libido: Women's Sexual Vitality Booster - 60 Tablets

Some research shows that the herb increases desire in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder, but other studies have been inconclusive. Research is also unclear about the long-term effects of taking this supplement. Side effects include abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Many women have never been able to climax, or they infrequently orgasm, a condition called female orgasmic disorder. There are many possible causes, such as medication side effects, pelvic floor dysfunction, and psychological barriers.

Toy-Safe Harmonizing Lube

Talk with your healthcare provider to find the cause, get treatment, and regain a healthy sex life. Several other natural supplements may improve women's sexual well-being, but there is less evidence to support them. Gingko biloba: Gingko has a reputation for sexual enhancement. It may improve blood flow and increase nitric oxide, but studies published to date have not produced solid evidence it works. Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum): Kanna may decrease levels of serotonin, a brain chemical with a role in sexual desire and pleasure. Ristela is a daily oral supplement made with amino acids and antioxidants.“It’s a complementary option,” says McNally. “And it’s something a lot of women are curious about.” Best for: Women seeking gentle, hormone-free support—especially alongside pelvic floor work or other arousal strategies. Even with the right product or prescription, libido doesn’t live in a vacuum. What supports energy, blood flow, and relaxation matters just as much—if not more—than what’s in your supplement drawer. Why it’s essential: Libido is shaped by everything from sleep and stress to circulation and muscle tone. “Nutrition, exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and even routine genital stimulation can make a big difference,” says Paolilli.