Tea That Increases Libido
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Time to read 14 min
Table of Content
Author: Pard Bharaj
I am a dedicated researcher with nearly a decade of experience in investigating health best practices. My journey in the health and wellness field has been driven by a passion for understanding and sharing the most effective ways to maintain and improve health. Over the years, I have delved into a wide range of topics, constantly seeking out the latest research and insights. My commitment is to provide well-researched, accurate, and trustworthy information to help readers make informed decisions about their health.
"Maca root, which comes from the Andes and was used by the Incas for energy and endurance, helps balance hormone levels and may boost testosterone. I love it"
Introduction:
After reviewing numerous scientific studies, I've narrowed our focus to four specific plants that stand out due to solid scientific evidence supporting their ability to boost libido in both men and women.
I reviewed many scientific journals for plants including Yohimbe Bark, Horny Goat Weed, and Ginkgo Biloba; however, none of these have been included in my top four because the scientific backing for their effectiveness in increasing libido remains either inconclusive or sparse. Only a select few have demonstrated consistent, reliable evidence.
Through my analysis, it was clear that Maca emerges as the top performer, significantly enhancing libido across a broad spectrum of individuals—from healthy adults to those experiencing sexual dysfunction. Ginseng comes in second.
Throughout this article, we will delve into each of these four teas, examining how they influence libido. For those interested in exploring the research further, I encourage you to consult the references and additional readings listed at the end of this article, where you'll find detailed summaries of each study related to these libido-enhancing ingredients.
These plants can be purchased as teas, which is a great way of incorporating them into our diets.
Key Takeaways - Tea That Increases Libido:
- Maca Root Tea: Boosts libido significantly; ideal for both men and women due to its ability to modulate the endocrine system. Science has shown this plant to be the most effective for enhancing libido in men and women.
- Korean Ginseng (Panax): Enhances sexual performance and libido; has been studied for its effectiveness in improving erectile function.
- Damiana Tea: Known for its traditional use as an aphrodisiac; increases sexual desire and performance. Harder to source organically which is important to ensure it is free from unwanted contaminants. In excessive amounts it can have toxic effects.
- Tribulus Terrestris Tea: Often used to enhance sexual function; may positively affect hormone levels and improve erectile function. The scientific evidence is there but more research is required.
Tea That Increases Libido
1. Maca Root Tea
Several scientific studies strongly suggest that Maca (Peruvian ginseng), a root native to the Peruvian Andes, enhances libido due to its unique nutritional profile and phytochemical content, which are believed to influence key hormones without containing hormones itself. Maca's effect on libido is not due to a direct hormonal action, but rather it helps modulate the endocrine system, which in turn regulates healthy hormone production.
Black Maca is often recommended for men, as it is believed to have the most potent effect on increasing sperm production and enhancing libido. Red Maca, on the other hand, is frequently noted for its potentially favourable impact on female sexual health, particularly in balancing hormone levels during menopause.
However, it's important to note that both black and red Maca are effective in enhancing libido in both men and women. While some studies highlight particular benefits of one type over the other, generally speaking, any form of Maca can be beneficial for boosting sexual function.
2. Koriean Ginseng (Panax):
Korean Ginseng, scientifically known as Panax ginseng, is widely studied for its ability to enhance libido and support sexual function in both men and women. Its effectiveness is most likely down to its high content of ginsenosides, which are active compounds believed to have significant effects on the endocrine system. These ginsenosides can release nitric oxide in the endothelium, leading to improved blood flow—a crucial aspect of sexual arousal and performance.
Korean Ginseng has been shown to improve erectile function in men by enhancing penile rigidity and duration of erection. This is primarily due to its ability to increase nitric oxide synthesis, which expands blood vessels and enhances circulation to genital tissues. In women, Korean Ginseng has been found to improve sexual arousal by similarly enhancing blood flow, which is vital for sexual response and sensitivity.
Moreover, Korean Ginseng is noted for its ability to reduce stress and improve overall energy levels, both of which are important for a healthy sexual life.
3. Damiana Tea:
Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is a shrub native to the Americas, renowned for its use in traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac. The leaves of the damiana plant are commonly brewed into a tea that is believed to have libido-enhancing properties for both men and women.
The primary action of damiana on sexual function is thought to stem from its compound content, which includes flavonoids, caffeine, and arbutin. These compounds are suggested to stimulate blood flow and increase sensitivity in the genital area, potentially enhancing sexual pleasure and arousal. Furthermore, damiana has been reported to positively affect mood and reduce anxiety, which can often be significant barriers to sexual desire and performance.
Scientific studies on damiana have highlighted its potential as a sexual stimulant. Research suggests that damiana acts on the sympathetic nervous system, which may enhance sexual arousal.
4. Tribulus Terrestris Tea
Tribulus Terrestris is a plant that has been in various traditional medicines across the world, including Chinese and Ayurvedic systems. The fruit, leaf, and root of the plant are used to make medicinal teas and supplements. Tribulus Terrestris tea is particularly noted for its potential benefits in enhancing libido and sexual function in both men and women.
The active components in Tribulus Terrestris are believed to be saponins, particularly the protodioscin saponin, which is thought to contribute to the plant's libido-enhancing properties. It is believed the plant can help increase androgen receptor density in the brain, which might enhance the body's response to hormones like testosterone and estrogen. For men, this can translate to improved sperm production and erectile function. For women, Tribulus may help increase sexual desire and arousal.
Despite these potential benefits, the scientific evidence is mixed, and more robust clinical trials are needed to conclusively determine the efficacy of Tribulus Terrestris in enhancing libido and treating sexual dysfunctions.
"Maca boosts sex drive like crazy. And if there's any side effect, some people just have to stop taking it because they get so sexually stimulated... Kind of makes you feel a little like a superhero"
Potential Side Effects and Considerations:
When considering the use of herbal teas like Maca, Korean Ginseng, Damiana, and Tribulus Terrestris for enhancing libido, it's crucial to understand their potential side effects, precautions, and issues related to sourcing and toxicity. Each herb has unique considerations:
1. Maca
- Precautions and Side Effects: Maca is generally considered safe and is well-tolerated by most individuals when consumed in typical food amounts. However, due to its effects on hormone balance, individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult a healthcare provider before starting Maca.
- Sourcing: Quality can vary significantly, so it's important to purchase Maca from reputable sources that offer organically grown products to avoid contaminants like pesticides.
- Toxicity: Maca does not have significant toxicity issues reported at normal dietary levels.
2. Korean Ginseng
- Precautions and Side Effects: Ginseng is potent and may cause insomnia, headaches, digestive issues, and changes in blood pressure or blood sugar levels. It should be used cautiously by those with heart conditions, autoimmune diseases, or hormone-sensitive disorders, and is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Sourcing: Authentic Korean Ginseng is ideal. The market sometimes confuses it with other types, so verifying the source and choosing certified products is essential.
- Toxicity: Overuse or long-term use can lead to ginseng abuse syndrome, characterized by high blood pressure, insomnia, mood disturbances, and increased heart rate.
3. Damiana
- Precautions and Side Effects: Damiana may cause convulsions if used in very high doses and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. People with liver issues should use Damiana cautiously as there is little information on its hepatic effects.
- Sourcing: Damiana should be sourced from reputable suppliers to ensure it is free from contaminants and adulterants that can be common in less regulated markets.
- Toxicity: In excessive amounts, Damiana has shown some toxic effects, such as potential liver damage, though these are rare when consumed in moderation as a tea.
4. Tribulus Terrestris
- Precautions and Side Effects: Tribulus may affect blood sugar levels and could impact cardiovascular health due to its potential to alter hormone levels. It should be used cautiously by those with diabetes or heart conditions and avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Sourcing: The quality of Tribulus Terrestris can vary greatly. It’s important to purchase from credible sources that provide pure, uncontaminated products.
- Toxicity: High doses have been linked with kidney damage in some cases, although typical amounts used for supplementation do not generally lead to serious side effects.
General Advice: For all these herbs, it's advisable to start with a low dose and monitor for any adverse reactions. Consulting with a healthcare professional, particularly in cases of existing health conditions or other medication use, is crucial to ensure safety. Additionally, sustainable and ethical sourcing is important not only for health reasons but also to support responsible farming practices.
