Improve Sexual Wellbeing & Intimacy

Address Arousal Difficulties

Arousal is the way the mind and body get ready for sex, from feeling interested and "switched on" to physical changes such as lubrication or an erection, and when it is slow, fades quickly or does not come when you want it, there are usually understandable and often treatable causes. This page is about arousal itself, while desire, erections, orgasm, dryness, pain and performance worries have their own pages.

General information, not medical advice. Last updated November 1, 2026. Written by the AlternativeMed editorial team. Not medically reviewed.

Start here

Notice when and how it happens (always, only with a partner, only since a new medicine, only when stressed or tired) and write down a few notes to bring to an appointment.
See a doctor, nurse or sexual health clinic if it has lasted more than a few months or it upsets you or your partner: this is the advice from MedlinePlus, and the cause is often treatable.
Take the pressure off: give yourself more time, widen what counts as intimacy beyond intercourse, and talk with your partner about what helps you feel aroused.

Be careful with

Do not stop or change a prescribed medicine on your own because it may be affecting arousal. Talk to the person who prescribed it, who can review the options.
"Male enhancement", "stamina" and "sensual" pills, honeys and chocolates sold online or in shops have been found by the FDA to contain hidden drug ingredients, even when labelled natural. They can cause serious harm.
Herbs and supplements are not automatically safe. Several are poorly studied for arousal, and some (such as yohimbe) have toxicity concerns, so check with a pharmacist or doctor first, especially if you take any medicine or have heart, blood pressure, liver or kidney problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Get help when

Arousal problems that last more than a few months, keep coming back, or cause distress for you or your partner (MedlinePlus wording).
Problems that started after a new medicine, an operation, an injury, cancer treatment or childbirth.
Pain during sex, bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods or after menopause, or unusual discharge.
Erections that are often hard to get or keep: this can be an early sign of a heart or blood vessel problem, so it is worth a check even if it is not bothering you much.
Feeling low, hopeless or anxious for weeks, or any thoughts of harming yourself: speak to a doctor now or contact local emergency services. In the UK, the NHS lists Samaritans on 116 123 and 999 for emergencies.
Difficulties linked to past sexual assault or abuse: you are not at fault and support exists (see Evidence & Safety).

About Address Arousal Difficulties

What this goal means

Sexual arousal has a mental side (feeling interested, attracted or "in the mood") and a physical side (for example genital swelling and natural lubrication in women, or an erection in men). Research on women separates "subjective" arousal, how aroused you feel, from "physiological" arousal, what the body does, and the two do not always match.

This goal covers difficulty becoming or staying aroused when you want to be, for people of any gender, orientation, age or ability. It is not about how often you want sex (see the desire page) or about reaching climax (see the orgasm page).

In women, a combined problem of low sexual interest and arousal is called sexual interest/arousal disorder (SIAD), which one trial team describes as the most common sexual difficulty reported by women. In men, trouble getting or keeping an erection is called erectile dysfunction.

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What it can feel like

People describe feeling interested but physically unresponsive, feeling physically responsive but mentally "not there", arousal that fades partway through, or needing much more time or different kinds of touch than before. Men may find an erection comes sometimes but not every time, does not last long enough, or does not come at all.

Many people also describe worry, self-watching and embarrassment, which can make arousal harder in turn. Studies of mindfulness-based programmes target exactly this cycle of rumination and tension.

^5,4,3

What can contribute

MedlinePlus lists physical causes such as diabetes, heart disease, nerve disorders and hormone problems, and psychological causes such as work stress, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and past sexual trauma. Some medicines can also affect desire and function, including some medicines for blood pressure, depression and chemotherapy.

Life stages matter: lower estrogen around perimenopause and menopause can thin and dry the vaginal skin, and the NHS also lists pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal contraceptives, a hysterectomy and cancer treatment as possible causes of dryness. The NHS adds that dryness can simply reflect not being aroused during sex.

For men, NIDDK lists diabetes, kidney disease, obesity, lung disease, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, stroke, low testosterone or thyroid imbalance, nerve damage, and an enlarged prostate among the conditions linked to erectile dysfunction, plus medicines, stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self-esteem, too little activity, alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs.

In a small daily-diary study of 171 young women, longer sleep went with greater next-day sexual desire and a higher chance of partnered sexual activity, which suggests that sleep is worth looking at.

^1,6,7,5,8

Conditions that can be behind it

Diabetes, heart and blood vessel disease, high blood pressure, nerve conditions (such as multiple sclerosis or spinal injury), hormone and thyroid problems, depression, anxiety, chronic pelvic pain (for example from endometriosis) and menopause can all be involved. Treating the underlying condition often helps sexual function, so a general check is worth having.

Erectile dysfunction is also recognised as an early warning sign of possible heart and blood vessel disease, which is why a clinician may check blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.

^1,9,5,10

Realistic expectations

Occasional off days are common. For lasting difficulty, the best-tested approaches are not quick fixes: in an 8-session group trial of 148 women with SIAD, desire and arousal improved with large effects and the gains were still there 12 months later, whether the programme was mindfulness-based or supportive sex education. In an online trial of 129 women, both mindfulness and cognitive-behavioural programmes beat a waiting list over about 8 to 12 weeks.

Supplements and herbs are far less certain. Systematic reviews of ginseng, maca, saffron and tribulus describe low or very low certainty and small trials, so it is sensible to treat them as unproven. A substantial placebo response has also been seen in women with sexual concerns, which is one reason well-designed trials matter.

^{4,11,12,13,14,15,2}

When feelings or past experiences are involved

Low mood, anxiety, and painful past experiences can all affect arousal, and they deserve care in their own right. MedlinePlus lists past sexual trauma and depression among psychological causes, and a clinician can help or refer you to a therapist.

The NHS says that if you have been sexually assaulted it was not your fault, that you do not have to report it to the police, and that sexual assault referral centres and voluntary organisations offer medical, practical and emotional support. If you are feeling that you want to end your life, the NHS says to tell someone, and lists free helplines and 999 for danger to life.

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Who this applies to

Adults of any gender, orientation or ability who want help with arousal. Most of the research read for this page was done in women (especially cisgender women) or in men with erectile dysfunction, and we did not find sources specific to transgender or non-binary people, so we describe the general principles and encourage you to find a clinician who is comfortable with your situation.

If your main concern is low interest in sex, erections, orgasm, dryness, pain, anxiety about performance, communication or medicines, see the linked goal pages.

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Related conditions and symptoms

Erectile dysfunction → Vaginal dryness and sexual wellness → Anxiety disorders → Trauma and PTSD → Pelvic floor and pelvic pain → Perimenopause and menopause → Thyroid and fatigue → Prediabetes, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome → Endometriosis and fibroids →

A manageable starting plan

An educational starting point, not a personal prescription. Adjust it to your own situation and any advice from your clinician.

Your first actions

Write a few notes: when it happens, how long it has been going on, new medicines or life events, and mood and sleep.
Book a check-up if it has lasted more than a few months or distresses you; bring a list of every medicine and supplement.
Protect sleep, keep alcohol modest, stop smoking if you smoke, and stay active.
Make time for slower, lower-pressure intimacy and talk about what helps.

Optional additions

Try a structured mindfulness practice or programme.
Ask for a referral to a sex therapist or counsellor.
Ask a pelvic health physiotherapist about pelvic floor work (women).
Use a water-based lubricant if dryness reduces comfort.
Move towards a Mediterranean-style eating pattern if you have erection problems.

What to track

How aroused you feel mentally and what your body does, on a simple 0 to 10 scale after each occasion (only if this does not add pressure).
Sleep, stress, alcohol and exercise in the same weeks.
Any new medicine or supplement and the date you started it.

When to reassess

Give lifestyle changes and therapy several weeks to months. If there is no change, or it is getting worse or distressing, return to the clinician rather than adding more products.

When to seek professional support

A doctor, nurse or sexual health clinic can assess causes, review medicines and refer to a sex therapist.
Couples counselling can help when relationship strain is part of the picture.
If past abuse or assault is involved, a trauma-informed therapist or support service can help (see Evidence & Safety).

What helps

Ordered by how well the research supports each step. Evidence strength is shown on every card; precautions sit next to the advice.

Start here

A check-up to look for a cause

Low certainty

Addresses: Finds treatable physical, hormonal, medicine-related or emotional causes

Why it may help: MedlinePlus says occasional problems are common but that problems lasting more than a few months or causing distress are a reason to see a health care provider. A visit usually includes questions about relationships, sexual practices, other health problems and medicines, and may include a physical or pelvic exam. NIDDK describes a similar history, exam and tests for men. This is agency guidance rather than a trial result.

How to apply it: Book an appointment with a doctor, nurse or sexual health clinic (the NHS notes that sexual health clinics treat sexual health problems and many offer walk-in services). Bring your notes on when it happens and a list of all medicines and supplements.

Who it may suit: Anyone with ongoing or distressing arousal difficulty, or sudden change.

Precautions: If this is difficult to talk about, you can ask for a longer appointment or a clinician of a particular gender.

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Men's health: when to get help → Women's health: when to get help →

Reviewing medicines with the prescriber

Moderate certainty

Addresses: May remove a medicine-related cause

Why it may help: MedlinePlus says some blood pressure, depression and chemotherapy medicines can lower sex drive or make it hard to reach orgasm, and that a provider may be able to change or stop a medicine. NIDDK lists many common medicines that can contribute to erectile dysfunction and says a clinician may adjust the dose or switch medicines, while stressing that you should not stop any medicine on your own.

How to apply it: Tell the prescriber when the change began in relation to starting or changing a medicine, and ask what options exist. Do not stop or change the medicine yourself.

Who it may suit: Anyone whose arousal changed after starting, stopping or changing a medicine.

Precautions: Stopping some medicines suddenly can be dangerous.

^6,9,5,20

Understand How Medicines Affect Sexual Wellbeing → Medicine interactions →

More time, more variety, and a conversation with a partner

Low certainty

Addresses: Gives arousal a chance to build; reduces pressure

Why it may help: MedlinePlus suggests focusing on other sexual activities and not just intercourse, talking to your partner, and planning non-sexual time together to build the relationship. The NHS suggests trying different types of foreplay to find what makes you feel more aroused, and says dryness can happen when you are not aroused. These are practical agency tips rather than trial findings.

How to apply it: Agree that the aim is enjoyment rather than a result. Try slower pacing, different kinds of touch, and say what you like. If talking is hard, a sex therapist or counsellor can help.

Who it may suit: People with a partner and people exploring on their own.

Precautions: Consent and comfort matter: stop or change anything that is uncomfortable. If something hurts, see a clinician rather than pushing through.

^6,9,7

Communicate More Comfortably About Intimacy → Build Emotional & Physical Connection →

Sleep, rest, alcohol and smoking basics

Low certainty

Addresses: Supports the body and mind systems that arousal relies on

Why it may help: MedlinePlus advises getting plenty of rest, eating well, limiting alcohol, drugs and smoking, and feeling your best. NIDDK links smoking, heavy drinking, recreational drugs and inactivity to erectile dysfunction. In a 14-day diary study of 171 women, longer sleep was linked with greater next-day desire and a higher chance of partnered sexual activity, but with slightly lower next-day genital arousal in the same woman; women who usually slept longer reported better genital arousal overall. This was a small observational pilot study, so it cannot prove cause.

How to apply it: Keep regular sleep and wake times, keep alcohol modest and well away from intimate time, and ask for help to stop smoking if you smoke.

Who it may suit: Most adults.

Precautions: Heavy drinking or drug use may hide other causes and is not a solution.

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How to Fall Asleep Faster → Caffeine, alcohol and sleep →

Additional options

Mindfulness-based sex therapy

Moderate certainty

Addresses: Improves self-rated desire and arousal and lowers sexual distress in women

Why it may help: In a randomized trial of 148 women with sexual interest/arousal disorder, eight weekly sessions of group mindfulness-based cognitive therapy improved desire and arousal with large effects (d about 1.3 to 1.6), maintained at 12 months; supportive sex education improved them similarly, but mindfulness reduced sexual distress more. A systematic review of 15 studies found mindfulness-based therapy improved subjectively rated arousal and desire, satisfaction and sexual anxiety, and the match between how aroused women feel and what their bodies show, but did not clearly reduce pain.

How to apply it: Look for a trained therapist or a structured group or online programme that teaches present-moment attention to body sensations and reduces self-judgement.

Who it may suit: Women with low arousal and desire; limited research in men (one erectile dysfunction study in the review).

Precautions: Choose a trained therapist if you have a trauma history, since body-focused attention can be distressing. The reviewed studies were small and had method limits.

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Meditation → Breathwork →

Cognitive-behavioural sex therapy, counselling and education

Moderate certainty

Addresses: Improves sexual symptoms and satisfaction

Why it may help: A meta-analysis of 20 randomized trials of psychological treatments for sexual dysfunction found a moderate overall benefit on symptoms (d = 0.58) and on satisfaction (d = 0.47) compared with waiting lists, with the best evidence for female low desire and orgasm problems. Evidence for other problems was thinner. In the online trial of 129 women with SIAD, a cognitive-behavioural programme improved desire, arousal and sexual distress compared with a waiting list. NIDDK and the NHS also note that counselling can lower anxiety and stress about sex for erection problems.

How to apply it: Ask a doctor for a referral, or look for a qualified sex therapist or psychotherapist. The NHS names the professional bodies COSRT and the Institute of Psychosexual Medicine for UK sex therapists.

Who it may suit: Adults whose difficulty is linked to stress, anxiety, past experiences, relationship strain or negative thoughts about sex; couples.

Precautions: Waits for NHS services can be long, and private therapists should hold recognised qualifications.

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Manage Sexual Performance Anxiety → Therapy for anxiety and stress →

Regular physical activity (men with erection problems)

Moderate certainty

Addresses: Improves erectile function scores

Why it may help: A meta-analysis of 7 randomized trials (478 men with erectile dysfunction) found aerobic, pelvic floor or combined exercise raised erectile function scores by a few points, most clearly with moderate-to-vigorous aerobic exercise, although the trials had moderate-to-high risk of bias. NIDDK recommends staying active, quoting at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week from the US physical activity guidelines. The NHS adds that men who cycle more than 3 hours a week might pause cycling for a while.

How to apply it: Build up gradually towards brisk walking or similar activity, and ask a clinician first if you have heart disease, high blood pressure or other conditions.

Who it may suit: Men with erection-related arousal difficulty; activity is also good for general health in anyone.

Precautions: Stop and seek urgent care for chest pain, fainting or severe breathlessness during exercise.

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Support Healthy Erectile Function → Improve Your Cardiovascular Fitness →

Lubricant and vaginal moisturiser for comfort

Low certainty

Addresses: Makes arousal and sex more comfortable when dryness is part of the picture

Why it may help: The NHS advises water-based lubricants before sex and vaginal moisturisers for ongoing dryness, plus unperfumed soaps, and says not to use creams, lotions or moisturisers that are not made for the vagina because they can cause irritation or infection. MedlinePlus similarly suggests a vaginal lubricant for dryness. This improves comfort but does not itself create arousal.

How to apply it: Choose a water-based product, apply in and around the vagina (and on a partner or sex toy if used), and see a GP if dryness continues for a few weeks.

Who it may suit: Women with dryness, including around menopause, breastfeeding or after some medicines.

Precautions: Avoid perfumed products and douches. See a GP for unusual discharge or bleeding.

^7,6

Manage Vaginal Dryness →

Pelvic floor muscle training

Very low certainty

Addresses: May improve arousal, orgasm, satisfaction and pain scores in women

Why it may help: A 2024 meta-analysis of pelvic floor muscle training for female sexual dysfunction (21 randomized trials; 4 pooled) found improvements in the arousal, orgasm, satisfaction and pain parts of the Female Sexual Function Index and in the total score, with no side effects reported. The authors graded the certainty of the evidence as very low, because the trials differed a lot. MedlinePlus also suggests Kegel exercises (tightening and relaxing pelvic muscles).

How to apply it: A pelvic health physiotherapist can teach correct technique; some people need to learn to relax these muscles rather than tighten them.

Who it may suit: Women, particularly those with pelvic floor weakness, tension or pain.

Precautions: If sex is painful or you have pelvic pain, get assessed first, because tightening exercises are not right for everyone.

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Pelvic floor and pelvic pain → Address Discomfort During Sex →

Still being studied

Exercise shortly before sexual activity (women on antidepressants)

Low certainty

Addresses: May increase genital arousal and desire in women with antidepressant-related sexual side effects

Why it may help: In a lab study of 47 women with antidepressant-related arousal problems, 20 minutes of exercise before erotic film raised genital arousal. In a 3-week crossover trial of 52 women, exercise immediately before sexual activity improved sexual desire and, in women with sexual dysfunction at baseline, overall sexual function; scheduling regular sexual activity improved orgasm function, but exercise added no extra benefit for orgasm.

How to apply it: Not an everyday recommendation yet: talk to your prescriber, who may suggest exercise as part of a wider plan.

Who it may suit: Women whose arousal changed after starting an antidepressant.

Precautions: Do not stop the antidepressant. Check with a clinician before starting vigorous exercise if you have heart or other health conditions.

^24,25

Understand How Medicines Affect Sexual Wellbeing →

Online mindfulness and cognitive-behavioural programmes with remote coaching

Low certainty

Addresses: May expand access to treatment for women with low desire and arousal

Why it may help: In the eSense trial, 129 women with SIAD were randomized to an 8-module online mindfulness programme, an online cognitive-behavioural programme, or a waiting list, with non-expert coaches for up to 12 weeks. Both active groups did better on desire and arousal (d above 0.9) and sexual distress, and benefits generally lasted 6 months.

How to apply it: Programmes like this are mostly still in research settings. Ask a clinician about trusted online options.

Who it may suit: Women who find in-person therapy hard to reach.

Precautions: A single trial; women were not blinded to treatment and the waiting-list comparison favours treatment.

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Therapy for anxiety and stress →

Food & nutrition

Eating for blood vessels and erections

NIDDK says research shows a healthy diet can lower the risk of erectile dysfunction or improve its symptoms, and that diets such as the Mediterranean diet are linked with a lower chance of ED. Foods that lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease and obesity can also help.

The foods it lists are vegetables, fruits, legumes, unsaturated fats from nuts, seeds and fatty fish, and whole grains. It suggests limiting saturated fats such as red meat and fried foods, full-fat dairy, refined carbohydrates, foods high in sodium and added sugars, packaged foods and alcohol.

Vegetables, fruits and legumes
Nuts, seeds and fatty fish
Whole grains such as oats and brown rice
Less red meat, fried food, pastries, sweets and packaged food

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Women and food

We did not find reliable human trials or agency pages showing that a particular food improves arousal in women. General advice from MedlinePlus is to eat well and get plenty of rest. If you have diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure, managing those conditions with your care team is likely to help more than any single food.

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"Aphrodisiac" foods, honey and chocolate

Foods said to be aphrodisiacs belong to tradition rather than to tested evidence in the sources read. Be wary of "sensual" or "enhancement" honeys and chocolates sold online: the FDA's warning database lists many such products as containing hidden drug ingredients, so ordinary honey or chocolate from a normal food source is a different thing from these products.

²⁷

Alcohol and caffeine around intimate time

MedlinePlus and NIDDK advise limiting alcohol, and heavy drinking is linked with erection problems. The NHS suggests staying within 14 units a week if you have erection problems. We did not find sources in this review on the direct effect of caffeine on arousal.

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Remedies & supplements

Traditional use, laboratory findings and human trials are kept apart. "Natural" does not mean safe.

Ginseng (Korean red ginseng)

Low certainty

Studied form and route: Standardised root extract taken by mouth in trials

Intended outcome: Possible small improvement in sexual arousal in postmenopausal women

Human evidence: A systematic review of 10 double-blind placebo-controlled trials of ginseng in postmenopausal women found positive evidence for sexual function and for Korean red ginseng on sexual arousal, but rated the level of evidence as low because most trials had unclear risk of bias. It found no clear effects on hot flash frequency, hormones, biomarkers or womb-lining thickness.

Traditional use: Ginseng has long been used in traditional systems as a general tonic and for vitality.

Laboratory findings: We did not read lab studies for this page.

Limits: Small trials, mostly in postmenopausal women; no good evidence for other groups; product strength varies.

Interactions and precautions: Possible interactions with medicines; we did not find safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding in the sources read, so avoid unless a clinician advises. Ask a pharmacist before use.

¹²

Asian ginseng → Medicine interactions →

Saffron

Low certainty

Studied form and route: Standardised saffron extract in capsules in trials

Intended outcome: May improve sexual function scores, including desire and lubrication, in women

Human evidence: A meta-analysis of 5 studies (173 participants) found a statistically significant positive effect of saffron on sexual dysfunction overall, with considerable differences between studies. A three-centre placebo-controlled trial of 74 women with severe sexual dysfunction found the saffron group improved more than placebo on the main score, with the advantage in desire, lubrication and satisfaction domains; only 34 per group completed it, and the statistical result was borderline (p = 0.050).

Traditional use: Saffron is described in the trial paper as a traditional aphrodisiac used in various cultures.

Laboratory findings: We did not read lab studies for this page.

Limits: Few, small studies, several from one region; results are not yet confirmed by larger independent trials.

Interactions and precautions: Food amounts used in cooking are different from capsule extracts. We did not find safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding in the sources read, so avoid supplement amounts unless a clinician agrees. Ask a pharmacist if you take any medicine.

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Saffron →

Maca

Low certainty

Studied form and route: Dried root powder or extract by mouth in trials

Intended outcome: Limited evidence of improved sexual desire or function; one small pilot study in antidepressant-related problems

Human evidence: A systematic review of 4 randomized trials found two trials suggesting a benefit (healthy menopausal women, healthy men), one finding no effect in cyclists, and one in men with mild erectile dysfunction showing a benefit, and concluded evidence was limited with trials too few and small for firm conclusions. A pilot of 20 people (17 women) with SSRI-related sexual dysfunction found improvement in the higher-intake group but not the lower, with only 10 completing.

Traditional use: A food and traditional root crop in the Andes, traditionally used for vitality and fertility.

Laboratory findings: We did not read lab studies for this page.

Limits: Small trials; the pilot was tiny and dropped many participants; no large trial.

Interactions and precautions: Not enough safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Hormone-sensitive conditions: ask a clinician. Do not use it to replace a medicine review.

^13,29

Maca →

Ginkgo

Mixed findings

Studied form and route: Standardised leaf extract by mouth in trials

Intended outcome: Probably little benefit when used alone

Human evidence: In a trial of women with sexual arousal disorder, a single dose had a small but significant effect on physiological (not subjective) arousal in 99 women; in 68 women followed for 8 weeks, long-term use alone did not substantially help arousal beyond placebo, though ginkgo combined with sex therapy increased desire and contentment. Sex therapy alone improved orgasm function. The authors noted a substantial placebo effect.

Traditional use: Used in traditional medicine and widely sold as a memory and circulation herb.

Laboratory findings: The trial paper notes ginkgo extract can facilitate blood flow and influence nitric oxide systems.

Limits: One trial group of modest size; the combined therapy finding needs repeating.

Interactions and precautions: Possible interactions with medicines, including those that affect bleeding, so ask a pharmacist before use. We did not find safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding in the sources read.

Ginkgo →

Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris)

Very low certainty

Studied form and route: Plant extract by mouth in trials

Intended outcome: Possible increase in sexual function scores in women, with very low certainty

Human evidence: A systematic review of 5 randomized trials (279 women) found higher sexual function scores after 1 to 3 months and, in premenopausal women, higher serum testosterone after 3 months, with no serious adverse events reported; the certainty of evidence was very low and the authors said future studies are likely to change the estimates.

Traditional use: Used in traditional medicine systems for vitality and sexual function.

Laboratory findings: We did not read lab studies for this page.

Limits: Few small trials, different products and methods, no quality of life data.

Interactions and precautions: May change hormone levels. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and ask a clinician if you have a hormone-sensitive condition or take medicines.

¹⁵

Tribulus →

Multi-ingredient women's formula (ginseng, ginkgo, damiana, L-arginine, vitamins and minerals)

Very low certainty

Studied form and route: A proprietary combination supplement in a small trial

Intended outcome: Higher self-rated satisfaction in a 4-week trial

Human evidence: In a placebo-controlled trial of 77 women, 73.5% of the formula group reported improved satisfaction with their overall sex life compared with 37.2% on placebo, with reported improvements in desire, vaginal dryness, frequency of intercourse and orgasm, and clitoral sensation, and no notable side effects. It was short, small and tested one commercial formula.

Traditional use: Its herbs are used in traditional medicine for vitality.

Laboratory findings: We did not read lab studies for this page.

Limits: Single small old trial of one formula; findings cannot be applied to other products.

Interactions and precautions: Contains several active ingredients that may interact with medicines. Ask a pharmacist before use; we did not find safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

³⁰

Arginine and citrulline →

Yohimbe

Not enough evidence

Studied form and route: Bark extracts and yohimbine products

Intended outcome: Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac; benefit not established in the sources read

Human evidence: A 2024 review describes yohimbine being investigated for erectile dysfunction and other uses but flags toxicological concerns, particularly at higher doses. We did not read a trial that established benefit.

Traditional use: Yohimbe has a history of use in traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac.

Laboratory findings: The review notes yohimbine acts as an antagonist of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.

Limits: Products vary widely in content. Evidence of benefit is uncertain.

Interactions and precautions: The review flags toxicological concerns, particularly at higher doses. Ask a clinician first, especially if you have heart, blood pressure or anxiety problems or take medicines; avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

³¹

Yohimbe →

Therapies & care

Established professional care starts with finding out why: a conversation, a physical and medicines review, and tests where needed, followed by treating any underlying condition, counselling or sex therapy, and, where a clinician decides it is suitable, prescription treatment. This page does not recommend medicines or doses, and you should not stop a prescribed medicine on your own.

Medical assessment

Moderate certainty

Clinical assessment A clinician asks about relationships, sexual history, other health problems, medicines and mood, and may examine you. For men, NIDDK describes a medical, sexual and mental health history, physical exam and lab tests. MedlinePlus says a pelvic exam is part of a women's assessment, with referral to a sex therapist or psychiatric evaluation where depression is suspected.

Who it may suit: Anyone with persistent or distressing arousal difficulty.

Precautions: You can ask for a chaperone or a clinician of a particular gender.

^6,5,19

Understand Hormone Tests →

Treating underlying causes

Moderate certainty

Medical care Both NIDDK and the NHS say treating the cause (for example blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, hormone problems) can help, and MedlinePlus says getting treatment for other medical problems may improve sexual problems.

Who it may suit: People with a diagnosed or suspected condition.

Precautions: Follow your care team's advice; do not stop prescribed medicines on your own.

^6,20,19

Prediabetes, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome →

Sex therapy and counselling

Moderate certainty

Psychological therapy Therapists work on education, communication, reducing anxiety and negative thoughts, and exercises for couples or individuals. A meta-analysis found psychological interventions effective overall for sexual dysfunction, with the best evidence for women's low desire and orgasm problems, and trials in SIAD found large improvements in desire and arousal.

Who it may suit: Adults and couples, particularly when stress, anxiety, past experiences or relationship strain play a part.

Precautions: Look for recognised qualifications. Let the therapist know about any trauma history.

^21,4,11,6

Trauma and PTSD →

Mindfulness-based therapy

Moderate certainty

Psychological therapy Teaches present-moment awareness of body sensations and a non-judging attitude; reviewed studies show improvement in subjective arousal, desire and satisfaction in women, though the studies are few and small.

Who it may suit: Women with low arousal and desire; adults with sexual anxiety.

Precautions: Choose a trained teacher if you have trauma history or severe anxiety.

^3,4

Meditation →

Pelvic floor physiotherapy

Very low certainty

Physical therapy A specialist teaches training or relaxation of the pelvic muscles. A 2024 meta-analysis found improvements in several sexual function scores but rated the certainty as very low.

Who it may suit: Women with pelvic floor weakness, tension or pain.

Precautions: Assessment first; not all pelvic problems need strengthening.

²³

Pelvic floor and pelvic pain →

Prescription treatments (as a class a clinician decides)

Moderate certainty

Medical treatment For erectile dysfunction, a clinician may prescribe oral medicines that increase blood flow, injections or suppositories, or testosterone where low testosterone is confirmed; NIDDK warns of rare serious effects such as an erection lasting longer than 4 hours. For vaginal dryness linked to hormone changes, a doctor may prescribe hormone creams, gels, patches or medicines, which the NHS says are not recommended for everyone. A health care professional may also review or change a medicine that is contributing.

Who it may suit: People for whom a clinician judges the benefits outweigh the risks.

Precautions: Always tell the clinician about all medicines and supplements. Never use someone else's prescription or buy unregulated products.

^20,19,7

Support Healthy Erectile Function → Testosterone and low testosterone →

Vacuum erection devices

Moderate certainty

Medical device A tube, pump and ring draw blood into the penis to produce an erection. The NHS says they work for most men and can be used when medicine is unsuitable or does not work. NIDDK notes they can make the penis feel cold or numb and can cause painless bruising.

Who it may suit: Men for whom medicines are unsuitable or unhelpful.

Precautions: Practice and correct fit are needed; ask a clinician where to get one.

^19,20

What to avoid

Habits, products and claims that can get in the way. Never stop a prescribed medicine without talking to the professional who prescribed it.

Risks that apply to most people

Waiting indefinitely or assuming it is only "in your head" or only ageing

Moderate certainty

Why: MedlinePlus says arousal and other sexual problems can have physical causes (diabetes, heart disease, nerve or hormone problems), psychological causes, or both. A woman's sex drive often declines with age and this can be normal, but NIDDK says erectile dysfunction is not a routine part of aging.

Who it applies to: Anyone with ongoing change or distress.

Try instead: Get checked if it lasts more than a few months or bothers you; it is a common and respectable reason for an appointment.

^1,6,5

Recognize When Hormonal Symptoms Need Evaluation →

Treating sex as a test you must pass

Low certainty

Why: Worry, self-monitoring and rumination can get in the way of arousal. In trials of mindfulness-based therapy, reductions in rumination about sex and in sexual anxiety went along with improvement. NIDDK also says counsellors can help lower anxiety and stress about sex.

Who it applies to: Anyone who has had one or two bad experiences and now expects problems.

Try instead: Shift attention to sensation and connection rather than outcomes; widen intimacy beyond intercourse.

^4,3,20

Manage Sexual Performance Anxiety →

Personal triggers to check

Heavy alcohol, recreational drugs and smoking

Moderate certainty

Why: NIDDK lists heavy drinking, smoking and recreational drugs as lifestyle behaviours that may contribute to erectile dysfunction, and notes that some drugs can prevent arousal and sensations needed for an erection and may mask other causes. MedlinePlus advises limiting alcohol, drugs and smoking to make sex better.

Who it applies to: Anyone, especially people with erection problems or on medicines.

Try instead: Keep alcohol modest (the NHS gives a figure of no more than 14 units a week for men with erection problems), and seek help to stop smoking.

^5,20,6,19

Caffeine, alcohol and sleep →

Short or broken sleep

Low certainty

Why: In a 14-day diary study of 171 women, shorter sleep went with lower next-day desire and fewer partnered sexual encounters. It was a small observational study, so it shows association rather than cause.

Who it applies to: People with long work hours, shift work, new babies or insomnia.

Try instead: Protect sleep first; see the sleep goals if you have trouble sleeping.

⁸

Improve Your Sleep Quality →

Ongoing stress, anxiety, low mood and relationship strain

Moderate certainty

Why: MedlinePlus lists work-related stress, anxiety, depression and relationship concerns as psychological causes of sexual problems, and NIDDK lists anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness, low self-esteem and negative body image as factors in erectile dysfunction.

Who it applies to: Anyone going through a stressful period.

Try instead: Work on the stressor or get support; psychological therapies have trial evidence (see What Helps).

^1,5

How to Relieve Stress → Anxiety disorders →

Possible medicine effects (do not stop on your own)

Moderate certainty

Why: MedlinePlus and NIDDK list some antidepressants, blood pressure medicines, water pills, sedatives, some pain relievers, chemotherapy and hormone medicines among those that can affect sexual function. NHS adds hormonal contraceptives and antidepressants as possible causes of vaginal dryness.

Who it applies to: Anyone who started or changed a medicine before the problem began.

Try instead: Ask the prescriber to review; do not stop the medicine yourself.

^6,9,5,7

Understand How Medicines Affect Sexual Wellbeing →

Long hours of cycling (men with erection problems)

Very low certainty

Why: The NHS suggests men who cycle for more than 3 hours a week do not cycle for a while if they have erection problems. We did not find a trial in the sources read.

Who it applies to: Men who cycle a lot and notice erection or numbness problems.

Try instead: Try a break, and check with a clinician if problems continue.

¹⁹

Products that need caution

"Male enhancement", "sexual enhancement", "stamina" and similar pills, honeys and chocolates

Moderate certainty

Why: The FDA says many products that claim to help sexual enhancement or treat sexual dysfunction, including male enhancement supplements, energy pills and stamina pills, are likely to be contaminated with dangerous hidden ingredients. It says they are sometimes falsely advertised as dietary supplements or "all-natural", often have many positive reviews, are sold online and in stores, and can lead to severe health problems and hospitalization. The FDA's warning list includes many products sold as honey or chocolate.

Who it applies to: Anyone tempted by a quick online fix.

Try instead: Talk to a health care professional before trying any new product. Remember that a product's absence from the FDA list does not mean it is safe.

²⁷

Testosterone boosters claim check →

Buying prescription erection medicines online without a consultation

Low certainty

Why: NIDDK says not to order an erectile dysfunction medicine online before talking with a health care professional, because interactions can cause serious problems. The NHS warns that many websites sell fake medicines whose ingredients vary and can cause unpleasant side effects.

Who it applies to: Men with erection problems.

Try instead: See a doctor or sexual health clinic; if you buy online, use a registered pharmacy (the NHS names GPhC registration in the UK).

^20,19

Perfumed soaps, douches and non-vaginal creams on the vagina

Low certainty

Why: The NHS says not to use perfumed soaps, washes or douches in and around the vagina, and not to use creams, lotions or moisturisers that are not meant for the vagina, because they can cause irritation or infection.

Who it applies to: Women with dryness or discomfort.

Try instead: Use unperfumed washes and water-based lubricants or vaginal moisturisers.

⁷

Manage Vaginal Dryness →

Yohimbe and yohimbine products

Evidence against

Why: A 2024 review describes yohimbine, the main compound in yohimbe bark, as traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and studied for erectile dysfunction, but states that toxicological concerns exist, particularly at higher doses. We did not find strong trials of benefit in the sources read.

Who it applies to: Anyone considering yohimbe.

Try instead: Speak to a clinician first, especially if you have heart or blood pressure problems or take medicines.

^31,27

Yohimbe →

Unsupported claims

"Natural aphrodisiacs or supplements reliably fix arousal"

Evidence against

Why: The best systematic reviews found low or very low certainty for ginseng, maca, saffron and tribulus, and a trial of ginkgo found no substantial benefit alone beyond placebo. Some products are also contaminated (FDA).

Who it applies to: Any supplement or food marketed as a libido or arousal booster.

Try instead: Start with a check-up, a medicine review and the psychological approaches with trial evidence. If you try an herb, discuss it with a pharmacist or doctor first.

^{12,13,14,15,2,27}

Evaluate Hormone Balance Products & Claims →

"Hormone supplements will fix it"

Evidence against

Why: MedlinePlus says the role of female hormone supplements in treating orgasmic dysfunction is unproven and long-term risks remain unclear. Hormone treatments are prescribed by a doctor for specific situations such as menopausal vaginal dryness and are not recommended for everyone (NHS).

Who it applies to: Anyone offered "hormone balance" products.

Try instead: Ask a clinician whether hormone testing or treatment is appropriate for you.

^9,7

Understand Hormone Tests →

Common mistakes

Stopping a prescribed medicine on your own

High certainty

Why: NIDDK says clearly not to stop taking any medicines on your own and to talk with your health care professional first.

Who it applies to: People on antidepressants, blood pressure or other long-term medicines.

Try instead: Call or book an appointment to discuss your concerns; the prescriber can review options.

²⁰

Not telling a clinician about supplements and other products

Moderate certainty

Why: NIDDK says medicines and supplements can affect how other medicines work, and asks you to tell your health care professional about everything you take, including supplements and other alternative medicines.

Who it applies to: Anyone using herbs or supplements.

Try instead: Bring a list of everything you take to the appointment.

²⁰

Medicine interactions →

Going straight to intercourse and ignoring arousal time

Low certainty

Why: The NHS suggests trying different types of foreplay to find what makes you feel more aroused, and MedlinePlus recommends spending more time on foreplay so that you are aroused and naturally lubricated before intercourse.

Who it applies to: Couples in a rush or in a routine.

Try instead: Slow down and widen what counts as intimacy.

^7,6

Build Emotional & Physical Connection →

Avoiding the subject altogether

Low certainty

Why: MedlinePlus lists avoiding sex with a partner as a common sign of sexual dysfunction and suggests talking to your partner about the problem. Silence can add distress and strain.

Who it applies to: Couples and individuals who feel embarrassed.

Try instead: Choose a calm, non-sexual moment to talk, or see a counsellor together.

^6,20

Communicate More Comfortably About Intimacy →

Evidence & safety

What the research shows

Arousal difficulties have many possible causes, and health agencies agree the first step is a check for medical, medicine-related, hormonal and emotional contributors. The best-tested approaches for women with low arousal and desire are psychological: mindfulness-based and cognitive-behavioural programmes improved symptoms with large effects in two randomized trials, with lasting gains up to 12 months in one. For men, treating the cause, healthy lifestyle and exercise help erectile function. Evidence for herbs and supplements (ginseng, saffron, maca, tribulus, ginkgo) is low to very low, trials are small, and some products sold online are contaminated with hidden drugs.

Limits of the evidence

Most research was done in women with SIAD and in men with erectile dysfunction; we did not find sources specific to transgender, non-binary or disabled people.
Many supplement trials were small, short, and from a limited number of research groups; several reviews rate certainty as low or very low.
Arousal is often measured by self-report, which is subjective; some trials measure body responses in labs that may not match daily life.
The sleep study was a small observational pilot study in young university women.
We did not review fenugreek, horny goat weed, DHEA or L-arginine alone for this page, nor devices or prescription medicines in depth.

Precautions and interactions

Check supplements and herbs with a pharmacist if you take any medicine, especially blood thinners, heart, blood pressure, diabetes or mood medicines.
Do not buy "sexual enhancement" products from unverified sellers; the FDA warns of hidden drug ingredients that can cause serious harm.
Never stop or change a prescribed medicine on your own because of sexual side effects.
Do not use someone else's prescription or order prescription medicines online without a consultation.

Life-stage considerations

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: the sources read do not support herbal products for arousal; ask a clinician before using any herb or supplement. The NHS lists pregnancy and breastfeeding as causes of vaginal dryness.
Perimenopause and menopause: lower estrogen can cause dryness and painful sex; MedlinePlus and the NHS describe lubricants, moisturisers and medical treatments, which a clinician can discuss.
Older adults: MedlinePlus says a woman's sex drive often decreases with age and this can be normal, but NIDDK says erectile dysfunction is not a routine part of aging. Medicines and conditions are more common and should be reviewed.
Cancer treatment and surgery: the NHS lists chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy, surgery and hysterectomy as causes of dryness; ask your care team about sexual side effects.

Warning signs

An erection lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism), or vision or hearing loss after taking an erection medicine: call a health care professional right away or seek emergency care (NIDDK).
Pain during sex, bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods or after menopause, or unusual discharge: see a doctor (NHS).
Erection problems that keep happening may be a sign of a treatable condition and can be an early sign of heart disease: see a GP or sexual health clinic (NHS, review).
Chest pain, fainting or severe breathlessness: seek emergency care.
Persistent low mood, hopelessness or thoughts of harming yourself: see a doctor now or contact local emergency services. In the UK, the NHS lists Samaritans on 116 123, and 999 if your life is in danger.
If sex was unwanted or forced, or if difficulties follow an assault: it was not your fault. The NHS says services can help, you do not have to report to the police, and in England and Wales the Rape Crisis helpline on 0808 500 2222 is free and open 24 hours (UK source).

Claim checks

Ginseng, maca, saffron or tribulus will fix low arousal

Low certainty

Reviews found low or very low certainty, small trials and mixed results. They are not proven treatments.

^12,13,14,15

Ginkgo improves female arousal

Mixed findings

In one trial of women with arousal disorder, ginkgo alone did not substantially help beyond placebo; benefits appeared only when combined with sex therapy.

A product that says "all natural" is safe for sexual enhancement

Evidence against

The FDA says many such products are contaminated with hidden drug ingredients, sometimes falsely advertised as natural, and can cause serious harm.

²⁷

Mindfulness and sex therapy are just talk and do nothing

Moderate certainty

In randomized trials, mindfulness and supportive sex education both improved desire and arousal in women with SIAD, with benefits lasting 12 months in one trial; a meta-analysis found psychological treatments effective overall.

^4,11,21

Erection trouble is only a normal part of aging and not worth checking

High certainty

NIDDK says erectile dysfunction is not a routine part of aging, and a review describes it as often an early sign of coming heart and blood vessel disease.

^5,10

Questions people ask

What counts as an arousal difficulty?

It means trouble becoming or staying aroused when you want to be: feeling little or no mental excitement, little physical response (such as lubrication or an erection), or arousal that fades. MedlinePlus lists inability to become aroused as one of several common sexual problems in women, and NIDDK describes erections that are not firm enough or do not last as erectile dysfunction in males.

Is it normal?

Occasional problems are common. MedlinePlus advises seeing a health care provider if problems last more than a few months or cause distress for you or your partner. A woman's sex drive can fall with age, which may be normal, but erectile dysfunction is not a routine part of aging.

What causes arousal problems?

Physical causes include diabetes, heart disease, nerve disorders, hormone changes and some medicines. Psychological causes include stress, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and past sexual trauma. Often several causes overlap.

Can my medicine be the cause?

Possibly. Some antidepressants, blood pressure medicines, water pills, sedatives, some pain relievers and chemotherapy or hormone medicines can affect sexual function. Do not stop the medicine on your own; ask the prescriber to review it.

Do mindfulness and therapy really help?

In a randomized trial of 148 women with sexual interest/arousal disorder, an 8-session group programme improved desire and arousal with large effects that lasted a year, and an online trial of 129 women found similar gains with mindfulness and cognitive-behavioural programmes. A meta-analysis of 20 trials found psychological treatments helpful overall for sexual dysfunction.

Do natural supplements or aphrodisiacs work?

Evidence is weak. Systematic reviews of ginseng, maca, saffron and tribulus rate the certainty low or very low, and a ginkgo trial found no substantial effect alone. Some of the strongest-sounding products sold online are contaminated with hidden drugs, so talk to a pharmacist or doctor before trying anything.

When should I see a doctor?

MedlinePlus advises seeing a health care provider if problems last more than a few months or cause distress for you or your partner. See someone sooner for pain, bleeding, unusual discharge, an erection lasting longer than 4 hours, or if the change began after a new medicine or an injury.

Does exercise help?

In men with erectile dysfunction, a meta-analysis of 7 trials found exercise, especially moderate-to-vigorous aerobic exercise, improved erectile function scores. In women on antidepressants, exercise just before sexual activity improved desire in a small crossover trial. Always check with a clinician if you have heart or other conditions.

Could poor sleep be involved?

Possibly. In a small 14-day diary study of 171 women, longer sleep was linked with greater next-day sexual desire. It was observational, so it shows an association rather than proving cause.

Should I worry about my heart?

Erectile dysfunction can be an early sign of heart and blood vessel disease, so it is worth a check of blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. Chest pain, fainting or severe breathlessness needs emergency care.

What if sex hurts?

Pain with sex has its own page. In general, see a clinician if you have pain, bleeding or unusual discharge; do not push through pain. Lubricants and vaginal moisturisers may help comfort if dryness is part of it.

Is this the same as low desire or an orgasm problem?

They can overlap, but they are different. Desire is how much you want sex, arousal is the mental and physical response once you are interested, and orgasm is climax. See the linked pages for desire and orgasm.

References

MedlinePlus. Sexual Problems in Women. National Library of Medicine. Read 2026-11-01. source
Meston CM, Rellini AH, Telch MJ. Short- and long-term effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on sexual dysfunction in women. Arch Sex Behav. 2008. PMID 18274887. source
Jaderek I, Lew-Starowicz M. A systematic review on mindfulness meditation-based interventions for sexual dysfunctions. J Sex Med. 2019. PMID 31570137. source
Brotto LA, Zdaniuk B, Chivers ML, et al. A randomized trial comparing group mindfulness-based cognitive therapy with group supportive sex education and therapy for the treatment of female sexual interest/arousal disorder. J Consult Clin Psychol. 2021. PMID 34383535. source
NIDDK. Symptoms & Causes of Erectile Dysfunction (last reviewed October 2024). Read 2026-11-01. source
MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Women and sexual problems. Read 2026-11-01. source
NHS. Vaginal dryness (page last reviewed 24 July 2025). Read 2026-11-01. source
Kalmbach DA, Arnedt JT, Pillai V, et al. The impact of sleep on female sexual response and behavior: a pilot study. J Sex Med. 2015. PMID 25772315. source
MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Orgasmic dysfunction in women (review date 5/29/2026). Read 2026-11-01. source
Corona G, Rastrelli G, Isidori AM, et al. Erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular risk: a review of current findings. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther. 2020. PMID 32192361. source
Mahar EA, Stephenson KR, Brotto LA. A randomized controlled trial of online mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral interventions for sexual interest/arousal disorder in women: eSense. Behav Res Ther. 2025. PMID 40147247. source
Lee HW, Choi J, Lee Y, et al. Ginseng for managing menopausal woman's health: a systematic review of double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Medicine (Baltimore). 2016. PMID 27661038. source
Shin BC, Lee MS, Yang EJ, et al. Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2010. PMID 20691074. source
Ranjbar H, Ashrafizaveh A. Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) on sexual dysfunction among men and women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Avicenna J Phytomed. 2019. PMID 31516855. source
Martimbianco ALC, Pacheco RL, Vilarino FL, et al. Tribulus terrestris for female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review. Rev Bras Ginecol Obstet. 2020. PMID 32736394. source
NHS. Help after rape and sexual assault. Read 2026-11-01. source
NHS. Help for suicidal thoughts. Read 2026-11-01. source
MedlinePlus. Sexual Problems in Men. National Library of Medicine. Read 2026-11-01. source
NHS. Erectile dysfunction (impotence) (page last reviewed 28 July 2023). Read 2026-11-01. source
NIDDK. Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction (last reviewed October 2024). Read 2026-11-01. source
Fruhauf S, Gerger H, Schmidt HM, et al. Efficacy of psychological interventions for sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Sex Behav. 2013. PMID 23559141. source
Silva AB, Sousa N, Azevedo LF, et al. Physical activity and exercise for erectile dysfunction: systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med. 2017. PMID 27707739. source
Jorge CH, Bo K, Chiazuto Catai C, et al. Pelvic floor muscle training as treatment for female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2024. PMID 38191016. source
Lorenz TA, Meston CM. Acute exercise improves physical sexual arousal in women taking antidepressants. Ann Behav Med. 2012. PMID 22403029. source
Lorenz TA, Meston CM. Exercise improves sexual function in women taking antidepressants: results from a randomized crossover trial. Depress Anxiety. 2014. PMID 24754044. source
NIDDK. Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Erectile Dysfunction (last reviewed October 2024). Read 2026-11-01. source
US Food and Drug Administration. Tainted Sexual Enhancement Products (hidden ingredients in sexual enhancement and energy products). Read 2026-11-01. source
Kashani L, Aslzadeh S, Shokraee K, et al. Crocus sativus (saffron) in the treatment of female sexual dysfunction: a three-center, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled clinical trial. Avicenna J Phytomed. 2022. PMID 36186931. source
Dording CM, Fisher L, Papakostas G, et al. A double-blind, randomized, pilot dose-finding study of maca root (L. meyenii) for the management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2008. PMID 18801111. source
Ito TY, Trant AS, Polan ML. A double-blind placebo-controlled study of ArginMax, a nutritional supplement for enhancement of female sexual function. J Sex Marital Ther. 2001. PMID 11554217. source
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Ingredients, foods and supplements

Asian ginseng → Maca → Saffron → Ginkgo → Tribulus → Yohimbe → Fenugreek → Horny goat weed → Arginine and citrulline →

Research, safety and claim-check resources

Men's health: when to get help → Women's health: when to get help → Testosterone boosters claim check → Testosterone and low testosterone → Medicine interactions → Therapy for anxiety and stress → Stress, anxiety, burnout and depression: how they differ → Meditation → Breathwork → How to relieve stress →