Natural Herbs for the Female Sex Drive

A woman's libido may ebb and flow throughout her life depending on a number of factors. Fluctuations in sexual desire may occur when a relationship begins or ends or due to hormonal changes such as those that occur during pregnancy and menopause. While there doesn't appear to be one magic pill guaranteed to spice up a wavering sex drive, a number of herbs may enhance the female libido.
 

Naturopathic medicine promotes a holistic approach to health with minimal use of drugs. Please consult your physician before attempting naturopathic remedies at home.

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh, also known as squawroot, may imitate the effects of the female hormone estrogen and help to balance hormone levels, according Herbal Supplement Guide.com. Black cohosh is purported to treat some of the most common symptoms of menopause including low libido, vaginal dryness, hot flashes and mood swings.

Damiana Leaf

Damiana leaf, also called turneria aphrodisiaca, is a shrub native to North and Central America. It may enhance a woman's arousal at least in part because of its purported ability to increase circulation and sensitivity in the clitoris. Herbal Supplement Guide.com says the therapeutic compounds of the damiana leaf may also spur interest in sex.

Licorice

Licorice, or glycyrrhiza glabra, is a flavorful herb that grows wild in parts of Asia and Europe, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Licorice may help balance hormone and improve female libido, says Breast Feeding.com. Licorice may decrease fluid retention, breast tenderness and boost energy levels.

Maca Root

Maca root may help to balance and encourage the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, says Epigee.com. These effects may improve vaginal dryness in women and help restore sexual desire. Maca root contains a number of vitamins along with calcium, zinc and iron.

Panax Ginseng

Panax or Asian ginseng is purported to have estrogen-like effects on the female reproductive tissues and may prevent vaginal atrophy, says Breastfeeding.com. Traditional Chinese medicine suggests ginseng can improve strength and promote longevity. Asian ginseng contains compounds known as ginsenosides that are thought to give ginseng its medicinal properties.