21 Best Foods That Increase Libido Naturally Without Any Side-Effects

People have been interested in finding ways to improve their sexual energy for a very long time. Enhancing libido through natural means requires adopting a holistic approach that encompasses various factors such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, following a well-balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, getting good sleep, and effectively managing stress levels.

Healthy foods not only provide essential vitamins but also have the potential to act as aphrodisiacs. Some foods boost libido instantly. Conversely, an unhealthy diet can have detrimental effects on one’s sexual health. Researchers have established a correlation between certain types of food and improved sexual experiences. This article provides information on the types of foods that increase libido, enhance stamina, and intensify sexual pleasure.

21 Best Foods That Increase Libido Naturally Without Any Side Effects 

If you’re looking for foods that stimulate libido, count these natural aphrodisiac foods among them. Discover herbs, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and oils that increase sexual appetite. Keep reading to find out not only nutritional tips for increased libido but also why and how foods to enhance sexual desire work. 

1. Red Wine

According to the Journal of Sexual Medicine, while alcohol generally hinders sexual arousal, moderate consumption of wine can enhance sexual arousal in both men and women. According to a study, it has been found that red wine has the potential to enhance the production of the male sex hormone testosterone, thereby improving male virility¹.

The research findings indicate that the antioxidants present in red wine have the potential to enhance vascular health². This improvement in vascular health can lead to increased blood flow, which in turn may contribute to the maintenance of an erection. 

A different study discovered that women who consumed red wine observed a rise in blood flow to their erogenous zones. In addition to enhancing a woman’s libido, it also aids in lubrication, making it beneficial for individuals who may be experiencing vaginal dryness³. If you enjoy your glass of red wine, it is best to make it part of your libido-enhancing diet. At the same time, please refrain from going overboard.

2. Watermelon

For a very long time, watermelon has been considered one of the top libido-boosting foods. It’s also known as “natural Viagra” at times. Numerous studies have shown that watermelon has aphrodisiac properties in addition to being very hydrating. Watermelon is rich in the amino acid citrulline, which has been shown to boost sexual health and enhance libido⁴. 

It’s been discovered that following consumption, citrulline is changed into arginine. Arginine increases nitric oxide, which has the same fundamental action as Viagra in relaxing blood vessels⁵.

The increased blood flow to sexual organs promotes sexual arousal. Watermelon also contains bromelain, which may raise testosterone levels in males and regulate sex hormones. It has been suggested that eating this delicious fruit regularly can boost libido.

3. Safed musli

You cannot ignore Safed Musli when thinking about aphrodisiac foods for better libido. One of the most prevalent causes of decreased sex desire is stress and a sex hormone imbalance. Most men’s libido declines when they experience stress or fatigue. Low testosterone levels are another factor that might lead to a diminished desire to engage in sexual activity. 

This is why regular consumption of Safed muesli is so important as a natural remedy for low libido. Safed Museli has strong adaptogenic and aphrodisiac qualities⁶. Its potent aphrodisiac effects reduce anxiety and mental tension and increase desire by stimulating sex hormones⁷.

4. Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds might be the answer if you’re seeking natural foods for increased sex drive.  Zinc is a crucial element for sexual health, and pumpkin seeds contain a lot of it. Like Viagra, pumpkin seeds increase libido by relaxing blood vessels in the penis.

These mini-superfoods are loaded with zinc and other nutrients that have been shown to increase testosterone and libido without the negative side effects of prescription drugs like Viagra⁸.

Regular use of pumpkin seeds has been counted as one of the top foods to boost bedroom performance in both sexes. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in them, are converted into prostaglandins⁹. Prostaglandins improve male sexual performance¹⁰.

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5. Avocado

The vitamins and minerals that are necessary for a healthy sexual life are found in abundance in avocados. Avocados are high in beta carotene, magnesium, and vitamin E, sometimes known as the “sex vitamin,” which are all-natural ingredients for higher libido, related to sex drive and sexual performance. Avocado is high in vitamin B6 and folic acid, which boost energy levels. Vitamin B6 also aids in the regulation of prolactin, which is a libido booster¹¹.

Insufficient zinc levels may potentially contribute to reduced sexual arousal in men¹². The avocado fruit is recognized as a valuable dietary source of zinc, a mineral that plays a significant role in addressing erectile dysfunction.

Additionally, it contains potassium, a nutrient that can contribute to the enhancement of sexual health and performance. Thus, avocado falls under foods for improved sexual performance. Potassium also regulates the thyroid gland in women¹³. This is a gland directly tied to energy and the reaction to hormones. 

6. Salmon

Salmon is a must-mention food when discussing dietary choices for higher libido. Salmon is an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Omega fatty acids are thought to be the building blocks of the sex hormones estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone, which are important for sexual drive.

The anti-inflammatory and blood-flow-enhancing actions of these fatty acids are well-documented. Both sexes can benefit from increased blood flow to the genitalia when it comes to sexual performance¹⁴.

It has been hypothesized that omega-3 fatty acids help control hormone levels. Having a healthy libido depends on having normal hormone levels. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that enhances pleasure¹⁵ (source), is increased by eating salmon¹⁶. So count salmon as one of the top foods that boost sex drive.

7. Maca

Maca powder is a well-known herbal supplement that is commonly used to increase libido in both sexes. It is extracted from the maca plant’s root. People on SSRI antidepressants, which are known to decrease sexual drive, may benefit from taking maca, according to one study.  Thus, one can include maca in dietary strategies for a better sexual drive.

Maca contains I-arginine. l-arginine, once ingested, boosts sexual responsiveness by increasing nitric oxide in the blood, which in turn causes blood vessels to relax and dilate. This increases libido by heightening the sensual experience. Increasing the flow of oxygenated blood. Thus, maca can be counted as one of the best foods for boosting libido.

8. Gogi berry

Goji berries will help promote greater sexual vigor when they are incorporated into a healthy diet and lifestyle. Although not many studies have been conducted on including it in nutritional choices for better libido, goji berries have long been used as a sexual tonic. Goji berries are widely promoted as aphrodisiacs due to their reported ability to boost libido in a variety of ways. The vitamin C, vitamin A, and zinc found in goji berries all play an important role in maintaining hormonal balance and reproductive health.

It is believed that the high levels of antioxidants found in these little red fruits can improve erectile function in men and genital sensitivity in women. Gogi berries increase blood flow to the genitals17, which may result in more satisfying and powerful erections for men and a lubricated vagina for women.

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Further, the strong antioxidant property of goji berries can help protect against oxidative stress. This can be particularly beneficial for sexual health, as oxidative stress has been linked to erectile dysfunction and other sexual problems¹⁸. The nutrients in goji berries may also aid in lowering tension and anxiety, two things that can impair sexual arousal and performance.

9. Chia seeds

Chia seeds are often considered one of the foods that revitalize sex drive. Regular chia seed consumption was associated with significant enhancements in sexual function in men, including higher libido, better erections, and improved sex performance¹⁹. Because of its nutrient profile, it falls among the foods that fuel sexual desire naturally and may even increase libido. 

Chia seeds are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can support cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, leading to enhanced sexual function²⁰.

Chia seeds are also packed with essential minerals like zinc and magnesium, which play crucial roles in hormone production and muscle function, potentially positively affecting libido. Furthermore, their high fiber content can help regulate blood sugar levels, preventing energy spikes and crashes that may affect sexual desire and performance. 

10. Dark chocolate

Due to its numerous physiological and psychological benefits, dark chocolate is frequently linked to boosting libido and foods for heightened sexual attraction. Phenylethylamine, one of the compounds found in dark chocolate, has been shown to stimulate the body’s production of endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones. 

Additionally, it contains flavonoids, which may improve blood flow and circulation²¹ .This has been shown to increase genital sensitivity in women and improve erectile function in men. Magnesium, which is present in dark chocolate, can help relax blood vessels and reduce stress, both of which can boost a person’s libido. 

Note: Even though dark chocolate falls under foods that ignite sexual desire, its effect is short-lived and should not be relied on as a standalone strategy for a fulfilling sexual life.

11. Olive oil

New evidence reveals that olive oil, taken once weekly, may be more effective than Viagra in improving a man’s performance in the bedroom. Olive oil’s high concentration of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants benefits cardiovascular health. It enhances blood flow, especially to the genital organs.

The improved blood flow may also enhance sexual performance and arousal. Olive oil’s high concentration of antioxidants, such as vitamin E and phytonutrients, is responsible for its anti-inflammatory and hormone-balancing effects. Similarly, olive oil has been shown to significantly raise testosterone levels in men.

12. Onions

Onions fall under foods for stronger sexual urges for a reason. Many studies support the idea that onions are aphrodisiac foods that may increase libido and benefit the reproductive system²². Onions contain compounds like allicin²³, which may promote blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels and improving overall cardiovascular health. 

A healthy cardiovascular system can enhance blood flow to the genital area, potentially supporting better sexual function and arousal. Additionally, onions contain various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and zinc, which play essential roles in hormone production and overall sexual health.

13. Saffron 

Saffron is often regarded as a natural aphrodisiac due to its potential to enhance sex drive in both men and women. Additionally, it is believed to contribute to increased energy levels and improved stamina during sexual activity. Saffron’s anti-depressant and aphrodisiac effects may explain why it is been linked to higher libido levels in some people. 

There is a possibility that it could enhance blood circulation, thereby potentially benefiting sexual performance. A study examining the effects of saffron on men with infertility issues revealed positive outcomes in terms of improved libido and erectile function.

A recent study examined the effects of saffron on women experiencing low sexual desire as a result of taking antidepressants. The findings revealed that saffron demonstrated improvements in both lubrication and sexual desire.

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14. Oyster 

When it comes to foods to reignite passion or foods to increase intimacy, No one would think about Oysters. However, the incredibly high levels of zinc in oysters²⁴ make them one of the top foods that increase libido naturally.

Dopamine-enhancing compounds found in oysters have been shown to improve mood and energy. In addition, the heart-healthy omega-3 fats in them may increase blood flow to the sex organs, which in turn may contribute to an increase in libido.

15. Pomegranate

Pomegranate boosts libido, sexual performance, vaginal dryness, inflammation, and reproductive health, according to studies. The research found that pomegranate juice improved erectile function in men with mild to moderate ED. 

Pomegranates boost libido for various reasons. First, they contain antioxidants, especially polyphenols, which increase blood vessel health and flow²⁵. Men and women may improve sexual function with better circulation.

Second, pomegranates boost nitric oxide synthesis²⁶, which relaxes blood vessels and improves vascular health, which is important for sexual performance. Thirdly, pomegranate juice may boost testosterone, which enhances libido.

16.  Banana

There are many techniques to increase libido. Believe it or not, eating bananas is one of them. In addition to being nutrient- and energy-rich, bananas are also said to elevate mood, stimulate blood flow throughout the body, and enhance performance in bed. 

Tryptophan, an amino acid found in bananas, is necessary for the synthesis of serotonin, one of our “feel-good” chemicals. Potassium, found in abundance in bananas, is essential for the production of sex hormones and has been shown to increase blood circulation and sex drive.  The enzyme bromelain, which can be found in bananas, increases libido and enhances circulation²⁷.

17. Broccoli

Broccoli contains sulforaphane, which may improve blood flow and circulation, boosting libido by improving cardiovascular health²⁸.  This cruciferous vegetable is high in indole-3-carbinol²⁹,  which helps regulate estrogen. Having the right amount of the hormone is good for a strong libido. 

18. Cucumber

Vitamin C and manganese, both of which are abundant in cucumbers, have been linked to improved sexual health, increased energy, and heightened libido³⁰. Vitamin C has been shown to improve blood flow, which in turn can assist with maintaining an erection. 

19. Pineapple  

Due to the high levels of vitamin C and the enzyme bromelain that pineapple contains, it is commonly believed that eating pineapple may increase one’s libido. (source). 

Vitamin C improves blood flow and helps maintain healthy tissues, including those of sex organs. Bromelain is an enzyme that is found in pineapples. It stimulates the production of testosterone, which can make a man feel more sexually driven. Pineapple has a lot of vitamin C and thiamine, which give the body a burst of energy and make people more sexually active. 

20. Ginger

Ginger is a popular culinary herb and natural remedy. Ginger is one food that has been shown to increase a man’s libido naturally. This spice increases blood flow and testosterone production.

The use of ginger as a circulatory stimulant to help older men increase sex drive and deal with erectile dysfunction is well documented. Even the scent alone is enough to get the blood flowing. Like basil, it can have a warming effect on the body.

21. Tomatoes

Tomatoes, which contain the antioxidant lycopene, are known to boost men’s libido. Science Daily reports that this lycopene has a “Viagra-like” effect on the body as it relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. It boosts prostate health, which improves male virility. 

Conclusion 

To sum up, achieving a stronger, more vibrant libido doesn’t have to be challenging or risky. Mother Nature provides us with many options for increasing libido through healthy foods without any unwanted side effects. Keep in mind that a healthy diet and way of life work together to provide you with the energy to maintain a sex drive. To increase your libido, stay physically active, get enough sleep, and manage your stress. You may boost your health and your sex life at the same time if you take a comprehensive approach.