It's natural for sexual desire in both men and women to decline with age, similar to many other body functions[1].
There are also a number of other possible causes to be aware of though, and if you're looking to increase sexual drive, there are many libido-boosting supplement options and medications which may improve sex drive.
So what can you do to retain a healthy sex life? Let's dive in and get into the details.
Why do some people need libido boosters?
When it comes to issues with low libido, there's no single reason for a decline in sexual desire, but clinical studies have shown that smoking[2] and poor physical fitness[3] both have detrimental effects on men's libido and sexual health.
Low self-esteem, stress, and deficient testosterone levels can also be factors in a drop in libido, as well as other common sexual health conditions like erectile dysfunction.
While a decreased libido and sexual activity may just be a passing phase for some, for others who want to increase their sex drive, the issue may need to be addressed with the use of common supplements or certain lifestyle changes.
How can I raise my libido?
If you want to boost your sex drive, a good place to start may be to look at your personal health, and see if there are any areas where you could look to improve.
Quitting smoking is hard, but we all know there are various aspects of your life that will improve after you quit—improved sexual function might be the motivator to get you there when you learn about the link between smoking and erectile dysfunction. If you're struggling on your own, you can always see a doctor and see if there's any treatment they recommend.
Similarly, with weight, the benefit of dropping a few kilos and being more physically active isn't restricted to a healthy libido and weight loss-related improvements to ED. Improved blood flow and a reduced risk of heart disease are also positive factors to consider.
Mood and self-esteem can also play a large part in sexual performance and libido[4]. It's easier said than done, but taking time to actively regulate stress levels and prioritising self-worth could be one of the best libido boosters you can find.
If you're struggling with feelings of depression, seeking advice from a medical professional may prove to be a great step forward for your personal and sexual health.
How does a male libido enhancer work?
From traditional Chinese medicine to varieties of herbs and natural ingredients promising anything from raised energy levels to heightened arousal, there's a seemingly endless array of options to decide between if you're looking to use a libido supplement or enhancer to increase sexual desire.
Clinical trials with statistically significant results can be hard to come by on many dietary supplement options though, so let's do some research and see what's out there.
Ginkgo biloba
Leaves from this maidenhair tree have been used in Chinese medicine to treat libido, among other things, but its main proven effect is that it can improve blood flow[5], and therefore may have a knock-on effect in treating erectile dysfunction and low libido.
Korean red ginseng
This traditional ingredient has shown positive results for the production of sex hormones, erection strength, and sexual performance, but the mechanism by which it does this is still somewhat unknown[6].
Tribulus terrestris
This leafy plant, as well as the ever amusingly named horny goat weed, have not held up so well under scientific scrutiny, with tests being largely inconclusive.
Propionyl-L-carnitine
Derived from amino acids, propionyl-L-carnitine has been shown to increase exercise capacity and improve erections for some patients[7].
Yohimbine
Known as the herbal version of a certain erectile dysfunction medication, Yohimbine has been found to increase blood flow to the penis and has shown effectiveness in treating ED. It can also give a boost to sexual vigour and even help men who struggle to achieve orgasm[8].
L-arginine
The precursor to nitric oxide—an important molecule for the health of blood vessels—L-arginine supplementation has shown to have beneficial effects when treating sexual dysfunction by improving sexual satisfaction, sexual desire, as well as testosterone levels and pleasure during intercourse[9].
What are the benefits of using a male libido enhancer?
Whether it be supplement pills or herbal remedies, there can be many benefits to using a libido enhancer. Some include:
- Improved blood flow
- Greater sexual desire
- Increased testosterone
- Sexual pleasure
- Achieving erections
- Better orgasms
We recommend you chat with your doctor before trying any kind of sexual enhancement treatment or libido-boosting supplement. Taking medication for underlying conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease can be dangerous when interacting with libido enhancers.
What are the alternatives to libido supplements?
Whether you believe in the aphrodisiac effects of oysters, fenugreek, chocolate, or just some mood music and dimmed lighting, there have been dozens of supposed libido-boosting strategies and solutions throughout history. Red wine has even been touted as a way to treat erectile dysfunction.
Testosterone levels in men have been linked to mood and self-esteem, as well as sexual performance and libido, so if you want to try an alternative to a specific libido supplement, Pilot's Testosterone Support capsules might be a good place to start.
If you have been successful in raising your libido, but still have trouble achieving an erection, Pilot's clinically proven erectile dysfunction treatment is simple and effective and is delivered free Australia-wide, in discreet packaging.
Hopefully, this article has given you some helpful information on how to boost libido and shown that there are many options available when it comes to improving sexual function.
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