If you’ve noticed the spark dimming in the bedroom, it might be time to turn up the heat. Frequent “not tonight” moments can often signal stress, fatigue, or hormonal shifts affecting your desire. However, there’s good news: incorporating natural herbs for your sex drive can change your game in the bedroom!
We’re not talking about just any herbs; these herbs aren’t just about flavor—they’re about sparking desire, soothing sexual dysfunction, and boosting sexual health.
Herbs for Your Sex Drive: Secrets to a More Passionate Life
This adventure is more than just finding solutions; it’s about embracing the richness of our experiences, from intimate whispers to bold desires. By blending ancient wisdom with modern insights, we’re going to discover the incredible ways aphrodisiac herbs can lift your low libido, offer relief from sexual dysfunction, and help us connect more deeply with our bodies.
The wisdom of the yogis suggests finding a balance when it comes to sexual activity. While overdoing it may not be recommended, neglecting it entirely isn’t the solution either. So, if you’re yearning to reignite your sex life and say “yes” more often, it’s time to explore the power of natural spices that can turn up the heat!
1. Cloves: Igniting Passion Naturally
Cloves stand out as a naturally warming and subtly sweet spice that goes beyond culinary delight to kindle the flames of your sex life. This spice works wonders by enhancing blood flow and warming the body, thereby acting as a gentle catalyst for energy and relaxation. The stress-relieving qualities of cloves are a boon for those seeking to unwind and connect on a deeper level, while their sweet fragrance adds an element of sensuality to the mix.
Cloves also tap into the body’s natural rhythms, stimulating the nervous system in a way that encourages sexual arousal and supports sexual performance. Beyond their immediate effects, cloves contribute to a balanced sex drive by boosting testosterone levels, which is essential for both men’s and women’s libido. Their nutritional profile is rich, offering omega-3 fatty acids, manganese, vitamin K, and eugenol, which not only has antiseptic and mild anesthetic qualities but also underscores cloves’ holistic benefits.
YOU CAN START BY ADDING IT TO YOUR SMOOTHIES
2. Fenugreek: A Seed of Desire
The seeds of this plant are commonly found in curries and other Indian cuisines. The spice itself has a warm, intriguing flavor. A study found that there was an increase in sexual desire and arousal by consuming the seed extract. The findings also highlight improvements in vaginal lubrication and blood flow for women, leading to better sex and higher sexual arousal!
Fenugreek can also help men looking to improve their sexual health! In a 12-week research study involving 50 men, it was found that participants who took a daily supplement of 500mg of fenugreek, which was rich in the compound protodioscin, saw significant boosts in their testosterone levels. Remarkably, 90% of these participants experienced up to a 46% increase in testosterone, showcasing the potent effect of fenugreek on hormonal health.
Fenugreek may also help lower blood sugar levels in diabetics, and lactating women have used the spice for decades to increase milk production. The seeds may serve to enhance cardiovascular health and overall human performance, which is very necessary for the bedroom. Fenugreek seeds are also one of the easiest seeds to sprout and one of my personal faves.
3. Ginger: The Root of Vitality
We love ginger at Solluna. Widely used as an Ayurvedic herb for its digestive benefits, ginger is also recognized for its ability to enhance circulation and promote vitality, including sexual health. This warming herb comes from the root of the ginger plant, and it imparts a spicy, slightly sweet flavor and scent. Like garlic, ginger increases blood flow, especially to the sexual organs, and can help with erectile dysfunction. It also warms you up, increases your energy, and it smells a lot better than garlic.
Ginger’s reputation as an aphrodisiac spans across many cultures and is celebrated for its natural ability to kindle desire. This was even highlighted by Dr. Mehmet Oz, who recognized ginger as one of the top four natural libido enhancers. Its esteemed position in the realm of love and sexuality is also cemented in ancient texts like the Kamasutra, where ginger is acknowledged for its sensual properties.
It is also high in potassium, magnesium, and copper. It is a great anti-nausea substance and has anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Fennel: Harmony in Every Seed
This licorice-flavored herb looks a little like celery with lacy fronds at the top. You can use the fronds to flavor foods, grind the seeds as a spice, or chop the fennel stalks and add them to salads like I do in this Fennel and Beet Salad.
Ancient Egyptians used fennel to boost women’s libido and improve general sexual health. Fennel has estrogenic effects and can even help relieve menstrual cramps. It is a miracle worker for improving sexual satisfaction for menopausal women and decreases menopausal symptoms in women and andropause symptoms in men; it’s a win-win!
Fennel is also used to aid digestion, assist with lactation, and loosen phlegm in bronchial passages. Okay, I admit I personally think licorice doesn’t taste great to many people, but if you like it it will be great for you to use for your benefit!
5. Saffron: The Aphrodisiac Herb
While known for being a little expensive, a tiny bit of saffron goes a long way. Large amounts of this aphrodisiac herb can result in overdose (so don’t take it as a supplement), but a small amount can increase not only a low sex drive but also sexual function.
Saffron has antioxidant qualities and supplies selenium, zinc, potassium, and magnesium. It can help out with vaginal lubrication and may act to reduce premenstrual symptoms. Saffron is also a mood booster, so the next time you feel tired or “not up to it,” a small amount can leave you feeling brand new. Try making some saffron brown rice as a side dish for your next meal.
6. Garlic Herbs: Enhancing Your Performance
You may laugh at garlic on a list of sex-enhancing foods. After all, people on dates often avoid garlic because they don’t want to kill the mood with smelly breath when the evening turns to romance. However, the high levels of allicin in garlic not only improve blood flow to your sexual organs—a key factor in addressing sexual dysfunction—but also turn up the heat in terms of arousal and performance.
So, what’s more important? Fortunately, there’s always parsley for your breath!
Garlic is valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its ability to combat fatigue, strengthen the body, and improve Qi (vital energy) flow, which is essential for overall vitality, including sexual vitality.
Beyond its prowess in the bedroom, garlic is stellar for heart health and boasts antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties for the perfect dish for your next date night that might just enhance sexual function and combat sexual dysfunction, try out Solluna’s quinoa stuffed peppers.
7. Cardamom: The Spice of Intimate Whispers
The ancient healing art of Ayurveda recommends cardamom for low libido and sexual function. This spice contains high levels of cineole, which increases blood flow to the male and female sexual regions.
Cardamom increases energy and relieves fatigue; this can help you when you are feeling exhausted or stressed. Cardamom also balances doshas (Ayurvedic body energies) and has detoxifying properties. Put cardamom in your home-made chai teas with Solluna’s recipe.
8. Nutmeg: A Dash of Intimate Magic
Nutmeg, a fragrant spice, has a rich history in Indian culture as a renowned aphrodisiac. In African traditions, nutmeg is referred to as the “Viagra for women.” A study conducted by researchers at the Aligarh Muslim University in India confirmed its libido-boosting properties through animal testing. Not only does nutmeg enhance your sexual performance, but it also pairs exceptionally well when sprinkled on top of sweet potatoes.
9. Cayenne: The Heat of Passion
It only makes sense that hot peppers will cause a little sizzle in the bedroom. Much like its counterpart ginger, cayenne is celebrated for its ability to invigorate circulation, thanks to its rich capsaicin content. This warmth not only enhances blood flow throughout the body but also directs this vital energy to our sexual organs, potentially easing the challenges of erectile dysfunction and lighting the path to enhanced sexual stamina and sexual pleasure!
Incorporating cayenne into your diet brings more than just internal warmth; it may also bestow upon you a naturally flushed glow, an external sign of the vitality that cayenne stirs within, possibly adding an extra layer of allure in the eyes of your partner.
This spicy marvel may also ignite your metabolism, supporting weight management in a holistic approach to health that radiates from the inside out!
MAKE OUR SEXY TIME SMOOTHIE WITH CAYENNE
10. Basil: The Herb of Love’s Embrace
Basil, often hailed as the Herb of Love’s Embrace, carries with it a delightful blend of flavor and fragrance that has been celebrated for centuries not just for its culinary uses but also for its ability to kindle romance and enhance sexual desire. This sweet herb, with its invigorating aroma, has a long-standing reputation for boosting libido. The Italians affectionately refer to basil as “Kiss me Nicholas,” a nod to its romantic connotations, while the ancient Greeks recognized its potency by serving basil to horses to encourage breeding.
The aroma of basil is thought to have a direct impact on arousal levels, making it a natural aphrodisiac. Its stimulating properties are not just folklore; they are rooted in the herb’s ability to uplift the spirit and energize the body, creating an atmosphere ripe for romance. So, whether it’s added to a delicious dish or simply inhaled for its fragrant bouquet, basil has the remarkable ability to set the stage for intimacy!
11. (Bonus) Ashwagandha: Enhanced Libido and Sexual Vitality
Ashwagandha, a revered herb in the world of Ayurvedic medicine, has long been celebrated for its myriad health benefits, including its remarkable impact on sexual health. This powerful adaptogen is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, two common culprits that can dampen libido and sexual performance.
Studies have demonstrated that supplementation with ashwagandha can lead to significant improvements in sexual function, particularly in men. It has been shown to increase testosterone levels, enhance sperm count and fertility, and may even support erectile function!
Enjoy the Results!
Diving into the world of natural herbs and spices opens up a treasure trove of possibilities for rekindling the flames of sexual potency and tackling challenges like low libido head-on. By weaving these potent botanicals into your daily meals, you’re not just spicing up your dishes—you’re infusing your life with elements that can boost both male and female libido, spark sexual desire, and transform a flagging libido into a vibrant expression of love and connection.
But the adventure doesn’t stop with learning about these herbs and spices just to increase your sexual arousal. It’s about bringing them to life in your kitchen and on your plate. To help you embark on this flavorful journey, we’ve curated a collection of recipes that will delight your palate and nourish your passion!
From energizing smoothies and refreshing salads to indulgent desserts and savory snacks, there’s a wealth of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. These creations are not just food; they’re a love letter to your well-being and a celebration of shared joy between you and your partner.
Hi Kim!
Homemade chai tea sounds yummy! Any chance you would be willing to share the recipe?
I use rooibos chai typically, and steep the tea and the cardomom first. Then I heat up hemp or almond milk, and go 5050 with the water and milk, adding stevia to sweeten. xx
Hey Kim,
Can you talk to how do birth control pills affect sex drive? It would be great if you could write a post on the pill in general.
Thanks!
Daisy
I agree!!!! :)
Shannon
Excellent. Thank you
Hi Kim
My husband keeps talking about me being dry, can I possibly mix the 10 herbs together cause they all have what I need
Hi Vivian – thank you for your question. I would first try using 1-2 herbs per recipe before trying to combine all of them at once. You want to make sure you can narrow down any specifics on what is helping you or not. If you add all of them it will take longer to narrow down which herb(s) are helping or not. Try using the mix of 1-2 herbs in each recipe, throughout the day, in smoothies, salads, desserts and snacks. Be sure to write down which herb, when and how you’re using each. Then, keep track on how you feel and if things down under are improving. Best of luck. Have fun with it. Sending you lots of love! Xo
This very interesting, thank you for sharing!
Nice one
Hi Kim,
I read your blog all the time,love it. Tnx for all the great info. I do have a question though, my bowel seems to always get blocked even though I keep a clean diet. I get acne on my neck. What do you suggest I do?
Try colonics or the magnesium oxygen supplement I recommend. xx
Where can u buy the magnesium oxygen supplement?
Hi Kim :-)
I was wondering where I can find coconut yogurt? Also, is there a particular brand of millet bread you’d recommend that I can find at Trader Joes?
You can find coconut yogurt at health stores. Millet bread isn’t at TJ’s I don’t think, but there you can at least get sprouted bread (spelt contains gluten though).
That’s so funny that garlic and many of the spices found in curry are good for your sex drive. Hopefully, the other person is eating the same thing. I hear that when a couple eats garlic, it cancels out the usually offensive odor, or something like that. I also heard that it’s better to eat raw garlic for that very reason.
Love the chai idea. I’ve been drinking the Vanilla Rooibos at Starbucks thanks to your suggestion :-)
Awesome! So glad Starbucks has it. :)
What is a good way to eat cloves? Can u put them in chai tea?
yes!
I just got my latest bloodwork results back…since starting the detox solution, cutting out beans and other things and adding coconut fat to my diet my ldl level has gone from 97 to 115! And I’m vegan! I’m freaking out! Help!
Don’t freak out. Every person’s body is different. Adding the GGS and eating a mostly plant-based diet should improve levels and has for many people. But if it’s not working for you add more beans or add back what you were having before that was working for you. xx
Kimberly, I love drinking the glowing green smoothies, but since I have been having them regularly,I find that I am very thirsty all day long. I can’t seem to quench my thirst, no matter how much water I drink. What do you think this means and what can I do about it?
Hi Janet, that is interesting. Usually it works the opposite way. If you are thirsty, maybe your body is rehydrating areas that really need to, such as areas in your digestive tract, which can happen when you transition your diet. Drink lots of water, and see if it passes. If it persists, you ask your doctor about it. xx
HEY KIMBERLY….
I saw a you-tube video of you viewing your YOGA DVD in 2010. Did you ever finish it and if so, where can I purchase it?
Hello! I bought/read your book and love every bit of info in it! Thank you for all your hard work and efforts! After reading this blog I bought some fenugreek seeds, how do you suggest eating or cooking them? thanks!
Hi there, wonderful! You can try sprouting them!!
Yum, basil and nutmeg are 2 of my absolute favorites!
Hi Kimberley, love your book. I have a good/disciplined time with the smoothie and eating healthily before pmt starts roughly 10 days before my period. Do you have a smoothie that helps dimish pmt? or any advice on what fruit/veg to eat to diminish pmt? i cave in and start eating rubbish which totally defeats the purpose!
thank you
I need a herb for sex drive if possible
I too am interested in herbs to help with your sex drive. We got alittle off track. I know I have been told that the maca root is suppose to help stablize your hormones and bring back your sex drive.
Maca is supposed to do that. I personally prefer to use every day food items and incorporate them into my meals, which can be just as effective. xx
Hi, I just read ur 10 herbs & spices list 2 increasing sexual libido. My question may b funny but I hav 2 kno, is this, in a romance novel I read the heroine was kidnapped by a man who wanted 2 marry her 4 nefarious reasons but he had 2 seduce her 1st, so he bought an herb that was boiled an drunk as a tea. According 2 the book it worked in half an hr 2 set the young lady in a state of heightened sexual desires. I can’t recall the name offhand, but I believe it was yohimbe! Can this b used as tea with those results? If so how long do the effects last?
Yohimbe is an actual aphrodisiac, though the effects are not that clearly defined.
Very usefull in4mation..
thanking u…
WOW just what I was searching for. Came here by searching for
sexual arousal
Hi Kimberly,
Thanks for the informative list. I am surprised you limited it to ten as there are so many more that apply! I just ordered some organic Damiana.
“Damiana is a popular aphrodisiac for men. The alkaloids contained within damiana stimulate blood flow to the genital area thereby increasing sensitivity; some even people report feelings of euphoria. It has also been traditionally used by numerous people for the purpose of enhancing orgasms in women.”
I highly suggest trying it (*blush*).
Keep up the great work educating everyone, you are doing a fantastic job and you look amazing!!!
=)
Tanks a lot for this 10 roots advise i would be needing more of ur advise to stay long when having sex
Let me quickly use ones rss after i can’t find your own e-mail membership website link or maybe e-newsletter assistance. Conduct you’ve virtually any? Make sure you allow me to comprehend to ensure that I could just subscribe. Appreciate it.
Very good article. Short and sweet with very nice pictures. I have been researching many herbs lately and I’m glad I found your site.
Mr.Makingusmile
I would like to know what spice really drive up your sex drive in a man rally quick
Aside from garlic and saffron, some of the herbs mentioned above are new to me. Thank you for sharing this information with us.
Thanks so much Darin…Enjoy! ;)
I am at my 50’s now. Surely, I no longer have my 18 year old body. I suggest that if you want to preserve your vitality even at 50, you should start taking care of your body while you are young. So, when you get old, it is your body that will take care of you.
I agree Shaun – thanks for sharing. Lots of love to you! ;)
Thank you for the blog. I really liked that you have told the importance of herbs in our sexual life.
Thanks so much Tushal…lots of love to you! ;)
Yes, I agree with these herbs and spices. Thanks for this blog. I am Ayurvedic specialist and I know the value of Ayurveda.
Happy to have you visit the site. Lots of love! ;)
Ginger… Just had to comment that the three best methods in my experience on this topic are hard aerobic exercise, long peaceful sleep without light, sound, or an alarm, and ginger. Last night was very interesting after the inclusion of a healthy quantity of ginger paste in my dinner stir fry. At the onset of sleep, I encountered a particularly robust male hypnagogic image which I allowed to pass through me. That does not happen very often. After a full night of sleep in the morning hours, my dreams were erotic, to put it mildly, and the physical effects put Viagra to shame. Be careful with too much ginger too close to bedtime because it makes you warm and can give you a mild stomach ache.
Remember Gilligan’s Island sitcom of the 70-80s? Now I know why they called the sexy daughter “Ginger”.
Thanks for your great share William! Keep up the good work in taking care of your overall health and wellness. Lots of love and support to you! ;)
Very Good Information .Thank you Keep up the good work
Thanks so much. Lots of love! ;)
I just want to know weather all of these dry spices can grind together and keep their mixture and take one or half spoon every night with water before sex/intercourse ?
Would there be a side effect for trying this or it is safe to do and gain maximum strength and stamina???
Regards,
Great question, Shahrukh. In theory you could make a spice blend from a combination of these spices and herbs, although it might have an interesting flavor :) If you have any concerns about how these spices/herbs might interfere with other medications you might be taking, I would recommend checking with your doctor first to be sure!
Hi Kimberley, I would like to know where can one get maca, because it seems that the shops around(including hers ans spice shops) here doesn’t know what maca is.
Hi Milton! You can typically find maca at your local health food store, at Whole Foods, or online from Amazon or another online retailer. :)
Amazing info I got from your blog, Good content! I am just reaching out to say keep up the good work.
Thanks so much and sending you lots of love! Xo