Spice Up Your Sex Life: Natural Ways to Boost Your Libido

It's believed that your libido is a good indicator of overall health. A strong "life force" if you will, generally tends to represent virility and energy. Unfortunately, advancing age, but more so, lifestyle habits can take a toll on your drive, making it difficult to appreciate physical intimacy as much as you used to.

Fortunately, it's not the end of the road if you notice things are heading over the hill. There are still some natural ways to try that might do the trick and reignite the proverbial flame.

Read on below to uncover what these are.

What Is Libido Anyway?

Libido is the notion of sexual health: relative drive and sexual prowess, and how people experience pleasure. It can refer to both physical and psychological aspects such as desire, satisfaction, and motivation. According to experts at Harvard Medical School, it's normal for libido levels to fluctuate throughout life; however, when it persistently dips lower than usual, it can become a cause for concern.

Regulators of Libido

A number of factors can contribute to your libido, some physical, and others emotional or psychological.

Physical regulators are hormones: namely testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone. These hormones provide the body with its sexual energy levels, as well as influence our responses to certain stimuli.

Emotional influences include stress, anxiety, depression, and lack of confidence, all of which can have a negative impact on your libido.

Cortisol finds itself in a unique place since it is a physical regulator, but with profound effects on emotional well-being.

Natural Libido Boosters

Dark Chocolate

Did you need another reason to wat dark chocolate? Here you go!

When looking for ways to increase libido, dark chocolate could just be the answer. It turns out that dark chocolate possesses traits that can help increase sexual arousal and desire.

As we all know, chocolate has been considered a symbol of love and passion for decades, so it stands to reason that having a bite of this delicious treat can get your mojo going in the right direction.

Not only is dark chocolate a scrumptious pleasure to consume, but it also contains several essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which are great for keeping us healthy in more ways than one.

Theobromine and phenylethylamine are two compounds naturally present in dark chocolate that have been known to induce feelings of excitement and boost energy levels — both key ingredients for those looking to revitalize their sex drive.

Then there's the fact that catechins help mitigate the negative effect of stress, which is a major libido killer.

Also found in dark chocolate is arginine, an amino acid with well-known aphrodisiac and circulation-boosting qualities. In addition to these natural compounds, some commercial dark chocolates come in " blends" that include aphrodisiac ingredients like ginger and chili peppers for an even greater libido-enhancing effect.

So don't be ashamed to reach for the box of chocolates next time you're feeling frisky; thanks to its combination of beneficial compounds, indulging in a few pieces of this delectable delicacy may lead not only to sensual satisfaction but heightened physical well-being too.

Good Old Shut Eye

Sleep plays a critical role in libido and sexual health, as well as every other aspect of our existence.

During sleep, the body produces and releases hormones, including testosterone, that are important for sexual function. Insufficient sleep is often associated with decreased testosterone levels, which takes a hit on your libido and sexual function.

Sleep deprivation can also cause an increase in cortisol levels, the stress hormone that can negatively affect sexual desire and performance. This is likely to be more noteworthy when it occurs with the simultaneous reduction in testosterone.

Additionally, sleep is essential for the restoration and recovery of the body. This includes the reproductive system, which requires adequate rest to function optimally. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, decreased energy, and diminished overall well-being, all of which can have a negative impact on sexual desire.

It is recommended that adults aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support overall health. Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a comfortable sleep environment, can help improve sleep quality and support what comes next (wink, wink).

If sleep still evades you, don't hesitate to take Dreamzzz, the all-natural sleep aide that can help get your sleep cycle back on track. Because the longer you wait to fix this, the worse things get.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol has a major impact on your libido. When consumed in moderate quantities, it can actually have an aphrodisiac effect, but when taken to excess, it can result in significant reductions in libido and stamina.

A good rule of thumb is this: for optimal sexual performance, stick with no more than one or two drinks a day; any more than that could impair your bedroom performance. Studies have shown that problems arising from alcohol abuse are not only acute – long-term heavy drinking can decrease testosterone levels, leading to even lower libido and erectile dysfunction. Sadly, because alcohol relaxes the inhibitions of most people, it is often abused as a tool to enhance sexual encounters; instead, regular use will often lead to the opposite effect over time. 

The good news is that reducing alcohol consumption can significantly benefit your sex life. Once you stop excessive drinking, you'll soon notice an improvement in energy levels and libido which will more than make up for any pleasure caused by the boozing earlier! When paired with other healthy lifestyle habits such as exercise and stress-reduction techniques – like yoga or meditation – cutting back on alcohol can help keep sexual energy flowing while avoiding riskier indulgences. So if you really want to boost your sex drive, minimize alcohol intake and reap the lasting benefits!

Regular Exercise

Many people are surprised to learn that exercise can help with libido. Indeed, regular cardiovascular and resistance exercise can help boost libido via several mechanisms.

Exercise can help improve blood flow, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase endorphin levels, all of which can have a positive effect on libido.

Cardiovascular exercises, such as running, swimming, or cycling, can help improve blood flow and circulation throughout the body, including to the genital area.

This Improved blood flow can increase sensitivity and arousal, making sexual experiences more enjoyable.

Resistance exercises, such as weightlifting or even bodyweight exercises, on the other hand, can help increase testosterone levels, which can have a positive effect on libido.

Testosterone is a hormone that is one of the primary regulators of sexual desire and arousal in both men and women.

Plus, resistance exercise can also help improve body composition, which can boost self-confidence and body image, both of which can have a positive effect on libido.

Don't ever discount the importance of exercise; it can help regulate virtually all aspects of our health.

Maintain A Moderate Weight

Everyone wants to feel wanted, and a healthy sex drive plays a huge role in that. Unfortunately, some of us have difficulties maintaining an ideal weight and don't realize that this can take its toll on our libido.

It's important to keep your weight in check due to the fact that fat cells produce estrogen. Sex hormones like testosterone can be negatively impacted by an excess of estrogen, which is exactly what happens in overweight people.

This imbalance can lead to reduced libido as well as increased issues with erectile dysfunction for men.

Not only does maintaining an ideal weight allow us to look good but it also boosts our mood and confidence which are two more components essential for good sexual health.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a dangerous habit for many reasons — and one of the most significant is how it affects our libido. Studies have consistently shown that people who smoke are less likely to experience an enjoyable sex life compared to their non-smoking counterparts.

Nicotine, along with other chemicals found in cigarettes, increases our heart rate and causes constriction of blood vessels. This can cause reduced sensitivity, which makes the reward less desirable.

Not only this, but smoking also interferes with testosterone levels and fertility in both men and women, further impacting performance in the bedroom. 

So why do we still engage in this habit? Well, addiction plays a massive part here as nicotine has been proven to be highly addictive even after just a few puffs.

Although there are many tobacco cessation programs available today that help smokers quit, ultimately it comes down to making the personal decision to stop and sticking to it. Reaping the rewards of better blood circulation and increased energy levels without any decline in libido will surely make quitting worth your while.

Eat More Chili Peppers

Consuming chili peppers can be a great way to help boost your libido. Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which is known to increase your heart rate, elevate endorphins, and raise baseline arousal levels.

In addition to its aphrodisiac effects, chili pepper consumption also has many health benefits. Eating more spicy foods helps fight inflammation, boosts weight loss, improves circulation and lowers blood pressure, all of which can improve one’s overall physical health and plays an important role in a healthy sex life.

Consumed in moderation and combined with other aspects of a healthy lifestyle – like exercise and meditation, chili Peppers can have a real positive effect on libido.

Also, try adding some hot sauce to meals or having a chili-based snack before getting physically intimate for an extra steamy night ahead! Working spice into your diet could give you that extra bump of sexual energy you are looking for.

MACA

MACA is an herbal supplement produced from a root vegetable grown in the Andes Mountains of South America. While it's generally known for its potential to increase energy and alertness, its libido-boosting effects make it a great choice for those looking to give their sex life some extra oomph.

The active constituents found in MACA are thought to influence overall hormonal balance and improve fertility, with some studies showing exciting benefits for erectile dysfunction and reproductive health in male subjects.

Furthermore, MACA may help boost neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine which are associated with improved mood, sexual desire, and satisfaction during intercourse.

Consuming MACA is simple; all you need do is add the powdered form to water or juice for a simple yet delicious beverage, or for convenience, just opt for it in a capsule.

Though results may vary from person to person, there's much potential for women and men alike to experience enhanced libido from regular MACA consumption.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Enhancing your sex drive is something that can positively influence your overall psychological and physical well-being. Most people understand the importance of watching their diet and eating well, yet they often forget that consuming enough food with magnesium, zinc, iodine, and selenium can benefit their libido as well.

Magnesium has been known to promote sexual health due to its positive effects on both testosterone levels in men and estrogen in women. In addition, this mineral could help balance other hormones such as progesterone and DHEA for better sexual performance. Taking zinc supplements may also help maintain adequate testosterone levels provided by the pituitary gland. Iodine contributes to improving hormone balance from the thyroid, which in turn increases libido. Selenium is another important trace mineral for men's health as it can improve fertility and sperm motility.

Whole food multivitamins and mineral supplements are one of the best ways to help get your recommended intake of essential nutrients. Fortify, our premium grade product ensures that you only get the highest grade, bioavailable minerals, and vitamins for your health.

Ginseng

Ginseng, an ancient Chinese herb revered for its healthful benefits, is especially beneficial when consumed to increase libido. For centuries, ginseng has been used as an adaptogen and aphrodisiac to help with issues of sexual desire and performance.

Adaptogens are herbs proven to support the body's natural stress system in order to mitigate cortisol and assist with normal adrenal health. They work by reducing psychological stress, increasing energy, and improving mood – factors that can all contribute to positive libido. In addition to this, ginseng has been shown to enhance nitric oxide production which helps relax blood vessels and simultaneously provides the energy needed for physical activity, leading to increased arousal.

The herb helps stimulate blood flow within the genitals, resulting in a heightened sex drive in both men and women. Ginseng also possesses mild testosterone-boosting effects in women which can lead to greater libido.

The high-paced nature of the world today almost mandates the use of adaptogens for assistance. Ginseng is a great starting place.

Gingko Biloba

In recent years, the adaptogen ginkgo has begun to be increasingly sought out as an aid to improve libido. Most frequently consumed as a cognitive and memory booster, it has extreme promise in benefiting your sexual health.

This herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries due to its reputation in being able to increase sexual desire and performance, making it one of the most popular supplements historically taken by people looking for a boost in their libido.

Many of its benefits can be attributed to compounds such as flavonoids and terpenoids, which act as antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals – while also increasing nitric oxide production.

Nitric oxide plays an important role in sexual arousal levels by helping dilate the blood vessels, allowing more blood flow to reach your genitals enabling better sexual performance and pleasure. The addition of ginkgo to your diet can undoubtedly bring many advantages related to libido, since not only does this plant boost energy levels and mood but also reduces anxiety and stress -which are two of the primary causes of low sex drive.

Ginkgo is also capable of modestly increasing testosterone levels, and can help reduce physical fatigue in the manner of an adaptogen, acting like an aphrodisiac and delivering a sense of well-being that lends itself to improving many facets of libido and sexual health.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a fascinating, powerful natural remedy that can make a huge difference when it comes to your sexual drive. It’s been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac, and in recent years it has piqued interest among consumers who want to get their sex drive up in a glorious renaissance, of sorts.

The main benefit of consuming fenugreek is that it increases levels of testosterone, which directly relates to sexual libido in both men and women. It does this by increasing levels of luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormone, which then signals the testes to make more testosterone (in men).

Testosterone can also boost the performance of athletes, so those looking for muscle-building and physical benefits might consider adding fenugreek to their intake regimen.

Because our bodies decrease the natural production of testosterone as we age, or owing to a medical condition, a supplement like fenugreek helps to support levels of this important hormone. It also improved overall fertility for both men and women by improving sperm quality and increasing egg health—perfect if you're trying to start or expand your family.

Collagen

Collagen is a protein that serves many important functions in the body, including contributing to the structure and integrity of your arteries. By supplementing your diet with collagen, you can potentially improve artery strength and help boost circulation to the nether regions.

This dual benefit is largely due to collagen’s special abilities as both a building block for muscle and as structural raw material.

Arterial stiffness is a poor indicator of health and usually occurs hand in hand with other metabolic disorders that tend to disrupt libido.

Watermelon

Watermelon provides a natural way to benefit your libido. Watermelons are high in citrulline, an amino acid that helps produce nitric oxide and relaxes blood vessels assisting with erectile potency.

Citrulline is especially found in the rind of the watermelon, so it would be best to have a few bites of the rind if you're looking for an extra boost. Adding to their aphrodisiac properties, watermelons are also loaded with important vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A and C that assist in cell building and repair and can reduce oxidative stress.

Nitric oxide may contribute to increased testosterone synthesis as well, by virtue of its ability to increase work capacity and muscle hypertrophy.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy may seem intimidating when considering the many topics being discussed on the internet about its efficacy and side effects. It is essential to understand that hormone therapy should only be considered as a last resort when other natural treatments have not proven to be successful in restoring libido.

When the time comes and your endocrinologist suggests it, it is important that they do extensive research and monitor your health to make sure that utilizing hormone therapy can benefit you personally.

One important factor to remember is to keep an open line of communication with your endocrinologist - thoroughly discuss the potential side effects that you may experience while taking hormone therapy and don't be afraid to ask questions during every step of the process. Testosterone replacement therapy does work, but it's important to have realistic expectations and knowledge of the possible untoward effects.

Final Words

When you feel like that burning flame that was your love life is now nothing but an ember, don't despair. Try some of the proven tips mentioned above. You should be able to improve your libido, given that you have an otherwise clean bill of health.