Are there natural aphrodisiac products that really work? Is an herbal aphrodisiac myth or reality? On this page I discuss the truth about natural aphrodisiacs - by Ray Sahelian, M.D.

From Spanish fly to ground rhino horn, the pursuit of herbal aphrodisiacs or natural substances that enhance sexual pleasure has been an age-old quest with all pseudo-science you could imagine, leading most scientists to dismiss the idea of an herbal or natural aphrodisiac as folklore. There is a general suspicion in the modern Western mindset that natural aphrodisiac compounds purported to enhance sexual passion or interest are barely -- if at all -- effective.
   Most Westerners would be surprised to find out that there are dozens of natural herbal and nutritional aphrodisiacs that enhance sexual drive and pleasure in both men and women, along with enhancing erections and providing more satisfying orgasms and climaxes — and some of them are quite powerful. I know because I am familiar with at least 3 dozen of these substances which I personally took and tested with patients and friends while writing my book Natural Sex Boosters. These natural male and female aphrodisiacs not only enhance libido, but they enhance most aspects of the human sexual response, particularly if they are used in combination. Aphrodisiac herbs, when used in combination, are just as good (actually, in my opinion, better) as Viagra or other drugs in helping with erectile function and boosting sexual stamina, libido, and performance. Some may take a little longer to work-- for instance Tongkat Ali, Horny goat weed, Tribulus, and Mucuna pruriens sometimes take 2 to 5 days for the best results --  but when they actually start working, you will be amazed! However, some combinations of herbs can start working within hours! We also have great feedback from men that Prostate Power Rx is having excellent sexual enhancement. Interestingly, two other products have have feedback as mild natural aphrodisiac sexual enhancers even though they are formulated for other reasons. These are Mind Power Rx for better mood and mental function, and Eyesight Rx for better vision.

Passion Rx ---  Powerful Natural Aphrodisiac -- Medical Doctor formulated for Men and Women
Passion Rx is a bestseller
How quickly does Passion Rx work as a male or female aphrodisiac?
Passion Rx provides results that are sometimes seen within a day or two, but are more often noticed by the third to fifth days. Our feedback thus far indicates more than 80% user satisfaction by the end the first week, and more than 90 percent by the end of two weeks.

Dr. Sahelian and his research staff have tested various doses and extracts of dozens of herbal aphrodisiacs from a number or raw material suppliers to determine the ideal dose and combination for optimal male and female aphrodisiac properties with the fewest side effects. After years of trial and error,  a powerful aphrodisiac proprietary blend with more than a dozen herbal extracts from the best raw material suppliers has been created. This unique natural aphrodisiac blend is a close kept secret. You will only find this exact combination in Passion Rx.
Click here to buy Passion Rx male and female aphrodisiac, or to see a full selection of natural aphrodisiac herbs and hundreds of high quality supplements

Subscribe to a FREE Supplement Research Update newsletter. Twice a month we email a brief abstract of several studies on various supplements and natural medicine topics -- including natural aphrodisiac herbs and aphrodisiac pills for a man or woman -- and their practical interpretation by Ray Sahelian, M.D. Click the link above in blue.

In recent years science has made breakthroughs in the understanding of sexual dysfunction. But, for hundreds of years, civilizations around the world have known about locally grown aphrodisiac herbs that achieve wonderful results with far fewer side effects than prescription drugs. Now, renowned physician and herbal expert Dr. Ray Sahelian, M.D., author of Natural Sex Boosters, has discovered a combination of exotic herbs from the Amazon jungle, India, China, Malaysia, and Africa, that provides a natural solution for those seeking an alternative to synthetic drugs.

Herbal Aphrodisiacs
There are quite a number of herbs and nutrients that I consider to be excellent male and female aphrodisiacs. Some of my favorites are included in Passion Rx (see the list above) and I discuss more than 20 of them in the Natural Sex Boosters book.  As medical science has given us a greater understanding of human sexuality and our own chemical processes that put us in the mood, research has uncovered how some well-known and not so well-known male and female aphrodisiacs actually work with our body chemistry to lead to arousal and excitement. Various substances of animal and plant origin have now been identified, allowing for testing and scientific understanding of their chemical composition and mechanisms of action. Many scientists casually dismiss the possibility that herbal aphrodisiacs are possible. How little do they know!

Additional products formulated by Dr. Sahelian that have mild to moderate aphrodisiac properties:
Prostate-Power-Rx with saw palmetto and pygeum
Mind-Power-Rx with acetylcarnitine and choline
Eyesight-Rx with ginkgo and bilberry

High Quality products formulated by a medical doctor
Consider highly popular all natural products. These top quality products include Mind Power Rx for better mental focus, concentration, and mood; Diet Rx which helps you eat less. It really does curb appetite; Good Night Rx for better sleep; Eyesight Rx for better vision, often within days; MultiVit Rx a daily comprehensive multivitamin for more energy and vitality; Joint Power Rx for healthy joints; Prostate Power Rx for a healthy prostate gland; and Passion Rx for sexual enhancement, better libido, and improved performance and stamina in men and women.

The Greek Aphrodisiac
In Greek mythology, an aphrodisiac was a festival, which was celebrated where Aphrodite (the Greek goddess of love and beauty) was worshipped through sexual intercourse with her priestesses. In Roman mythology, Aphrodite was called Venus and Cupid was her messenger. Throughout time, however, the meaning of aphrodisiac has come to describe any food, drug, potion, or other substance that arouses sexual desire.

Is there such a thing as an Aphrodisiac food or an Aphrodisiac recipe?
To my knowledge, no particular food enhances sexuality or can be considered a true aphrodisiac if the expectation is that results would be noticed within a brief period of time, such as an hour or two. It is possible, though, that certain foods, such as fish or seafood, could be considered to have aphrodisiac qualities in the long run since fish provides long-chained fatty acids such as DHA and EPA found in fish oils. These fish oils could improve blood flow to the genital region and also have beneficial effects on seminal fluid and sperm. A diet with healthy foods could certainly be considered to have aphrodisiac potential since in the long run those who are physically and mentally healthy are more likely to have optimal sexual function.

Aphrodisiac Food - What about spices as aphrodisiacs?
There appears to be some research supporting certain spices as male and female aphrodisiacs. One study in rodents found nutmeg and clove to be aphrodisiacs.

Aphrodisiac Foods - Is Chocolate one of the Aphrodisiacs?
Chocolate has been touted as one of the aphrodisiac foods in the popular press. The Aztecs brewed cocoa like coffee, and although studies show chocolate to contain phenylethylamine or PEA, to my knowledge eating chocolate (and I have done much of it) does not have much of an immediate influence on sexuality. I don't consider chocolate to be one of the food aphrodisiacs, however I have met a couple of people who felt raw chocolate had a sexual enhancement effect for them. Perhaps the polyphenols in chocolate have a slow aphrodisiac quality that's not apparent on the first day of ingestion. Aphrodisiacs recipes with chocolate can be made with unsweetened chocolate, unsweetened soy milk, stevia clear liquid, vanilla extract, and cinnamon powder.
   I would consider fish to be a natural aphrodisiac foods since they contain good fish oils that help with dilation and supply good fatty acids to sperm.

Aphrodisiac for Woman
Most herbal aphrodisiacs work for a woman as well as a man, including muira puama, tongkat ali, and horny goat weed. Mucuna pruriens and LJ100 are other herbal aphrodisiacs for a woman.

Secrets of Herbal Aphrodisiac Use
It boggles my mind that most people in the Western world -- along with the media, most doctors and medical researchers -- are not aware of the potent effect of herbs in terms of aphrodisiac benefit There are quite a number of aphrodisiac herbs that are effective in enhancing sexuality in men and women, but you have to learn how to use them effectively. Aphrodisiac herbs work slower than drugs and that may be one reason why some people think they don't work. As Americans we like a pill that gives an immediate effect and if we don't notice an effect within an hour or two we think it is a dud. Most aphrodisiac herbs take a few days for optimal effects, but there are some herbs or combinations that work quicker.
   Although Viagra and its cousins Cialis and Levitra work very well for erectile function, they have little effect on libido and no benefit regarding genital sensation. These drugs don't work that well in women. Aphrodisiac herbs generally are not as quick in terms of inducing an erection, but with time they can be as effective as the drugs. Most people prefer the overall sexual enhancement that comes from the herbs in terms of the whole package -- sensation, libido, intensity of orgasms, climaxes, lubrication, and erection. Aphroidisac herbs also have the advantage of causing fewer side effects.

How to Take Passion Rx with Yohimbe, or Individual Sex Herbs, Safely and Efficiently
Take the herbs in the morning at least a half hour before breakfast so they are absorbed well without food in the stomach. Some of the common aphrodisiac herbs are horny goat weed, tongkat ali and LJ100, mucuna pruriens, tribulus terrestris, catuaba, muira puama, maca, ashwagandha, and others. It is impossible to predict which one of the herbs or which combination will be effective for you unless you try it. If you buy more than one supplement, learn how each one works by itself before combining.

It is preferable to take these aphrodisiac herbs every other day or 2 days on, 2 or more days off. You will likely notice the benefits even on the days you are not taking them since there is often a delayed response. Very important: These herbal products work better when you don't take them every day.

Herbs have side effects, too, although less serious than the drugs. Common side effects from high doses of aphrodisiac herbs include overstimulation, restlessness, insomnia, increased body temperature, headache, and rapid heart beat. If you get insomnia, skip a dose the next day. If you get insomnia it means the dose of the herb or the herbal product you took was too high, and next time you take it, try half or a third of the initial dose. If you feel increased body temperature, drink a glass or two of cold water.

Be patient. Most herbs take anywhere from 2 to several days to start working, except for a high dose of yohimbe which can work within an hour or two. Keep in mind that if you try to induce sexual enhancement quickly, you are likely to get more side effects. If you wish to minimize adverse effects, take smaller amounts and be patient. The impotence Drugs Viagra, Cialis and Levitra can work within an hour or two but they can potentially induce serious side effects, including vision loss and chest pain.

If you are taking an aphrodisiac herbal product for the very first time, Start with a small amount, even if it means opening the capsule and taking a portion.

Passion Rx with yohimbe can be taken as a full capsule, but if you are sensitive to herbs take half or 3/4 of a capsule. Some people notice the effects the first day, but most people find that a good approach is to skip the second day and then take it again the third morning. The effects are often clearly noticed on the third or fourth day. Eventually you will find a noticeable enhancement of genital sensation, erection, lubrication, and overall sexual interest. Some people get sexual urges and overall enjoyment similar to what they experienced in their teenage years.

It is best not to take other supplements, especially those of a stimulant nature, on the days that you are taking sexual herbs since restlessness, insomnia and overstimulation can occur. Avoid using ginseng, St. John's wort, or other similar herbs, Eyesight Rx, hormones, SAM-e, and certain amino acids such as tyrosine. I also suggest you avoid drinking more than a cup of regular coffee and more than an ounce or two of wine.

Use caution if you are taking prescription medicines since sometimes the interactions between herbs and medicines is not predicable. It is best not to use antidepressant drugs the same day as these herbs. SSRI drugs such as Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft inhibit sexuality. 5-HTP, tryptophan and kava also inhibit sexual drive or decrease genital sensation.

Be extremely cautious using aphrodisiac herbs if you have thyroid or other endocrine issues, a heart condition, a tendency for high blood pressure or heart rhythm abnormalities. Many of these herbs can stimulate heart contraction and if you are prone to heart problems you may have untoward reactions.

Although initially you may find that a high dose is required for you to notice something, with time a lesser dose becomes just as effective. Your dosage requirement may change with time.

Prostate Power Rx works very well in many people as a sexual enhancer and can be alternated with Passion Rx or other sexual herbs.

If you find one particular aphrodisiac product or herb is no longer effective, take a week off and then try another one.

Natural Aphrodisiac Research
For more information on natural aphrodisiacs, see a book called Natural Sex Boosters.

Effect of Tribulus terrestris on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-diaphorase activity and androgen receptors in rat brain.
 J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Jan 4;96(1-2):127-32.
Tribulus terrestris has been used as an aphrodisiacs both in the Indian and Chinese traditional systems of medicine. Administration of tribulus terrestris extract increased sexual behavior and intracavernous pressure both in normal and castrated rats and these effects were probably due to the androgen increasing property of tribulus. Chronic treatment of tribulus terrestris in rats increases the NADPH-d positive neurons and AR immunoreactivity in the PVN region. The findings from the present study add further support to the aphrodisiacs claims of tribulus terrestris.

Aphrodisiac effect of 50% ethanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & Perry. (clove) on sexual behavior of normal male rats.
BMC Complement Altern Med. 2004 Nov 5;4(1):17
The flower bud of Syzygium aromaticum ( clove) has been used in Unani medicine since ancient times as aphrodisiacs for the treatment of male sexual disorders. The present study is aimed to investigate the effect of 50% ethanolic extract of clove on general mating behavior, libido, potency along with its likely gastric ulceration and adverse effects on sexually normal male albino rats. The results of our study show that the 50% ethanolic extract of clove produced a significant and sustained increase in the sexual activity of normal male rats, without any conspicuous gastric ulceration and adverse effects. Thus, the resultant aphrodisiacs effectivity of the extract lends support to the claims for its traditional usage in sexual disorders.

Aphrodisin, an aphrodisiac lipocalin secreted in hamster vaginal secretions.
Peptides. 2004 Sep;25(9):1545-52.
Vertebrates communicate through pheromones, which favor biological regulations within each species. Aphrodisin, aphrodisiacs protein belonging to the lipocalin superfamily, found in hamster vaginal secretions, is detected by the male accessory olfactory system and induces or facilitates its copulatory behavior.

Aphrodisiac properties of Montanoa tomentosa aqueous crude extract in male rats.
Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2004 May;78(1):129-34.
Cihuapatli, the Mexican zoapatle (Montanoa tomentosa) has an extensive ethnomedical history of use as a traditional remedy as aphrodisiacs and for reproductive impairments. During the study of the ejaculatory function in rats and by testing a set of Mexican plants with medicinal properties, we observed that crude extracts of M. tomentosa facilitated ejaculation. Thus, we decided to analyze the possibility that this plant possessed sexual stimulant properties. Altogether, our data reveal a facilitatory action of this extract on sexual activity and particularly on sexual arousal. Present findings provide experimental evidence that the crude extract preparation of M. tomentosa, used as a traditional remedy, possesses aphrodisiacs properties.

Aphrodisiacs activity of Butea frondosa Koen. ex Roxb. extract in male rats.
Phytomedicine. 2004 Feb;11(2-3):165-8.
In the present study, the aphrodisiacs activity of Butea frondonsa Koen. ex Roxb (Papillionaceae) bark extract was investigated.

Aphrodisiacs activity of methanol extract of leaves of Passiflora incarnata Linn (passion flower)in mice.
Phytother Res. 2003 Apr;17(4):401-3.
The aphrodisiacs properties of the methanol extract of leaves of Passiflora incarnata Linn. have been evaluated in mice by observing the mounting behaviour. The methanol extract of passion flower exhibited significant aphrodisiacs behavior in male mice.

Effect of Lepidium meyenii ( Maca ), a root with aphrodisiacs and fertility-enhancing properties, on serum reproductive hormone levels in adult healthy men.
 J Endocrinol. 2003 Jan;176(1):163-8.
Lepidium meyenii (Maca) is a Peruvian hypocotyl that grows exclusively between 4000 and 4500 m in the central Andes. Maca is traditionally employed in the Andean region for its supposed aphrodisiacs and/or fertility-enhancing properties.

Aphrodisiacs evaluation in non-copulator male rats after chronic administration of Eurycoma longifolia Jack.
Fundam Clin Pharmacol. 2001 Aug;15(4):265-8.
The aphrodisiac effect of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) was evaluated in noncopulator male rats. Fractions of E. longifolia Jack decreased the hesitation time of noncopulator male rats, throughout the investigation period. Furthermore, it possessed a transient increase in the percentage of the male rats responding to the right choice, more than 50% of the male rats scored "right choice" after 3 weeks post-treatment and the effect became more prominent after 8 weeks post-treatment (only 40-50% of the control male rats responded. Hence, this study lends further support to the use of the plant by indigenous populations as a traditional medicine for its aphrodisiac property.

Female aphrodisiacs versus male aphrodisiacs
Q. There are a number of herbs that are promoted to enhance sexuality and libido. Are there any herbs that are considered better as female aphrodisiacs than male aphrodisiacs?
   A. In our experience, we have found aphrodisiac herbs to be effective in both men and women.

Natural Aphrodisiac emails
Q. Dr. Sahelian, do you consider alcohol to be an aphrodisiac?
   A. Yes and no. It certainly is true that for some people a small amount of alcohol can reduce inhibitions and set them in the mood for love. However, alcohol is also a partial anesthetic, and as such reduces sensation. Alcohol also has an inhibitory effect on erections. Therefore I consider alcohol to be a mixed aphrodisiac, with positive, but mostly negative effects of sexuality.

Q. My mom tells me that oysters have aphrodisiac qualities. What say you?
   A. It depends how you define the word aphrodisiac. If aphrodisiac foods are supposed to work within a brief period of time, such as hours, I'm not aware of any foods that would fall into that category. However, if you take a long term approach, then I would consider many types of seafood aphrodisiacs since the fish oils have beneficial sexual properties in terms of improved blood flow and positive effects on the brain.

Q. Do you consider Cialis and Viagra aphrodisiac drugs ?
   A. I don't believe Levitra, Cialis and Viagra are aphrodisiacs. They are very effective in providing strong erections, but they do not enhance sexual desire much, if any, and they don't enhance sensation.

Q. Is tongkat ali one of the female aphrodisiacs ? Are there others?
   A. Yes, I do believe horny goat weed, muira puama, tongkat ali and many others are good and proven female aphrodisiac plants.

Q. is the French word for aphrodisiac aphrodisiaque?
   A. Yes. I think aphrodisiaque is the right spelling.

Q. Is Maca a natural male aphrodisiac product?
   A. Maca is one of the aphrodisiacs commonly available in herbal sex formulas for a man. I would say maca is a moderate aphrodisiac plant, not very potent, but not weak, either.

Q. What can you tell me about aphrodisiac creams? Also I see liquid aphrodisiacs on sale, do they work?
   A. I have not looked into aphrodisiac creams so I can't say much at this time. As to a liquid aphrodisiac for a woman, I do know that herbs can be ingested as a liquid aphrodisiac and they can work depending on the ingredients in the formula. Aphrodisiac herbs can be made into a tea.

Q. Does aromatherapy work as an aphrodisiac? Is there an aphrodisiac scent or fragrance?
   A. Some people, especially women, are quite sensitive to scents or essential oils and they could perhaps be sexually influenced by olfactory aromatherapy. I have not come across an aphrodisiac perfume, scent, fragrance or cologne that makes me immediately want to jump into bed. However, if the right person is wearing the right perfume or has the right scent, it certainly makes it easier to stay close to that person and allow oneself to be aroused. There are some individuals who are quite sensitive to fragrance, scent or perfume, and thus they could consider some of these perfumes as an aphrodisiac. Most people would not, especially if they do not have a great sense of smell. I do know some women who practice aromatherapy claim that some essential oils are an aphrodisiac.

Q. What is the best aphrodisiac pill?
   A. Different people respond differently to aphrodisiac herbs, so it is difficult to pick the best aphrodisiac. I think herbal aphrodisiac formulas that combine several herbs are probably the best aphrodisiac option.

Q. Do you know of any Chinese aphrodisiac herbs?
   A. The Chinese have many aphrodisiac herbs including cnidium, horny goat weed, codonopsis, etc.

Q. What about Spanish Fly as an aphrodisiac?
   A. I really don't know, I have never tried Spanish Fly.

Q. Is oyster an aphrodisiac?
    A. I don't think eating oysters will have a direct aphrodisiac effect. There are many potent aphrodisiac herbs that are much more effective.

Q. I noticed you have a number of studies supporting aphrodisiac effects of certain herbs on your aphrodisiacs web page. However none of those herbs seem to be in Passion Rx; and the herbs in Passion Rx are not ones you cite studies for.
   A. There are dozens of herbs that are effective, we have links on the website to the ones in the formula. I selected the aphrodisiac herbs that had the most research or historical experience and clinical effectiveness.