The 5 best ‘natural aphrodisiacs’ to spice up your sex life

What is an aphrodisiac?

Etymologically linked to Aphrodite, the goddess of love in Greek mythology, the term ‘aphrodisiac’ refers to any substance believed to increase libido, amplify sexual pleasure and/or boost sexual performance. Such a substance acts on one or more components of sexual behaviour: hormonal, circulatory, neurochemical, etc. A distinction is made between natural aphrodisiacs (usually from plants or spices) and synthetic aphrodisiacs, created in a lab (1).

Powerful natural aphrodisiacs: 5 ingredients for a fulfilling sex life

Korean ginseng: boosts sexual health

A true 'panacea' in traditional Asian medicine, Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a flowering plant in the Araliaceae family. Traditionally classed as an adaptogen, its anti-fatigue root is known to stimulate overall vitality and support sexual health (2). Animal studies suggest that its ginsenosides influence the release of nitric oxide, a powerful vasodilator gas that induces relaxation of the smooth muscles of the corpus cavernosum, or cavernous body, of the penis - the mechanism behind erection (3).

Discover Super Ginseng, standardised to 30% ginsenosides.

Tribulus terrestris: supports hormonal activity

Also known as Maltese Cross, Tribulus terrestris is a perennial member of the Zygophyllaceae family, native to Mediterranean regions and thriving in hot, dry climates. With its long, creeping stems and yellow flowers, it was described in Ayurvedic treatises as early as 700 BC as an aphrodisiac tonic.

Today, we know that it contributes to hormonal activity and the activity of the sexual organs. One hypothesis is that its active compounds, including its saponins, are converted into weak androgens. These in turn are transformed in the gonads and peripheral tissues into more powerful androgens (including testosterone), which stimulate sexual appetite. While studies have focused on its effects on male libido, a clinical trial also suggests its potential benefits on the sexual comfort and interest of post-menopausal women (4-5).

You'll find it in Tribulus terrestris, which contains 40% saponins.

Saffron: regulates emotions

Prized by gourmets, saffron is a Cretan spice produced from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus species. According to recent research, this 'red gold' is also believed to spice up intimate relationships thanks to its crocetin and crocin content. Studies suggest that it may influence erectile function, vaginal lubrication and sexual satisfaction in both sexes (6). Saffron has also been shown to contribute to good mental health: by regulating the re-uptake of serotonin, the famous ‘happy hormone’, it instils a feeling of relaxation and restores an emotional balance conducive to sexual fulfilment (7).

Maca: enhances libido

Maca (Lepidium meyenii), or Peruvian ginseng, is an adaptogenic root belonging to the Brassicaceae family and grown on the Peruvian high plateaux. Traditionally used by Andean populations to maintain sexual vigour, earning it the eloquent nickname of ‘Peruvian stimulant’, Maca owes its supposed effects to two specific fatty acids, macamides and macaenes. While it does not appear to interact with hormonal secretions, it is thought to rely on other mechanisms, more likely linked to the regulation of mood and energy levels (8-9).

Discover Super Maca, Peruvian maca extract standardised to 0.6% macamides and macaenes.

Maca is also featured in the Triple Play inflammatory synergy (in association with catuaba and Muira puama) and in the Natural TestoFormula 'testosterone booster' (rich in zinc, which helps maintain normal levels of testosterone in the blood).

L-arginine: improves circulation

L-arginine is a semi-essential amino acid which fulfils numerous physiological functions within the body. In particular, it is a precursor of nitric oxide, which plays an important role in the dilation and relaxation of blood vessels (10). It would therefore be of particular interest in sexual dysfunction, in that it facilitates blood flow to the genital area. A randomised trial also evaluated its impact on the quality of sexual life of women with depression, looking at factors such as lubrication, orgasm and mood (11).

For supplementation, opt for the alpha-ketoglutarate at the heart of the Arginine Alpha Ketoglutarate supplement, which is more effective than the traditional form.

Natural aphrodisiacs: enough to revive sexual desire?

It's important to remember that libido depends on many factors, and can be affected by stress, fatigue, an unbalanced diet or a lack of self-confidence. While the various natural supplements mentioned above are obviously intended to support intimate well-being in all its dimensions, they are not a substitute for medical treatment in the event of major or persistent sexual dysfunction.