Sexual enhancement, also known as an aphrodisiac, includes foods and drugs that encourage a libido increase. Besides that, they can also improve sexual pleasure, satisfaction, and performance.
Aphrodisiacs are one of the most common aids for men with erectile dysfunction (ED). Pistachio nuts, watermelon, and Tribulus are three natural remedies for firmer erections and improved sexual performance.
If having a nice and comfy little pre-sesh snack is part of your sex preparation, you will likely know some details about aphrodisiac foods. But that will not stop us from sharing our top 9 natural sexual enhancements to compare. Let’s get started.
1. Pistachio Nuts
These mild, little green nuts from the pistachio tree are a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin B, potassium, zinc, fibre, healthy fats, and the amino acid arginine. Pistachio nuts have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine because they help enhance blood flow.
Furthermore, researchers found that eating 100 g of pistachio nuts daily for three weeks improves erectile function in men with ED. Another study found that males consuming 100 g of pistachio nuts daily for three weeks demonstrate a healthy blood flow to the penis, resulting in firmer erections.
2. Watermelon
Not only is watermelon an excellent addition to summer festivals, but it also plays a tiny little role in our sexual health.
Considering nature’s Viagra, watermelon contains the amino acid citrulline, which our body converts into l-arginine. Our body is flooded with the compound, which triggers nitric oxide production.
Now, nitric oxide is responsible for dilating blood vessels, which is good news for the penis. Study shows citrulline supplements gave men with mild ED condition harder erections and more sexual pleasure.
On top of everything, this tasty fruit is also likely to boost women’s sex drive to the roof due to its Viagra-like effect. For that reason, watermelon is one of the best aphrodisiacs for improving sexual performance.
3. Fenugreek
Fenugreek, a unique herb similar to clover used in alternative medicine, helps improve sex drive and sexual function. This herb contains compounds that generate sex hormone production, including estrogen and testosterone.
Studies show that taking 600 mg of fenugreek extract daily is proven to improve sexual function and increase the T levels in 120 middle-aged and older men. Likewise, a study of 80 women with low sex drive shows that taking 600 mg of fenugreek daily significantly improved sexual arousal and desire.
On a side note, if you’re taking blood thinner meds, consult with your doctor before taking fenugreek supplements. This is because fenugreek interacts with blood thinners.
4. Maca Root Powder
Besides being one of the most popular superfood powder ingredients, Maca has long been considered a natural aphrodisiac. The maca root contains the arginine compound, which has been highly associated with a testosterone booster.
Researchers revealed that 42% of men taking 1,500–3,000 mg of maca supplement daily experience increased libido. Also, a study found that this Peruvian root supplement helps fight the loss of libido for those taking antidepressants.
In addition, maca is traditionally used to enhance fertility and sex drive.
You can buy the maca root supplement in various forms – capsules, powders, and liquid extracts. For consumption, you can add it to food or mix it in drinks.
5. Red Ginseng
Red ginseng is an aphrodisiac to help with low libido and sexual dysfunction – including improving sexual arousal in women going into menopause.
Like watermelon, red ginseng consumption boosts nitric oxide production, which helps the penis muscle relax. Some studies show that regularly consuming red ginseng can significantly enhance erectile function and improve sexual satisfaction.
On a side note, too much red ginseng can lead to headaches and an upset stomach. Also, consult your doctor before consuming red ginseng if you take blood thinner meds.
6. Pomegranate
Through time, pomegranates have been highly linked to love and fertility due to their seeds and vibrant red colour in the Mediterranean regions. Unsurprisingly, a study has revealed that men taking pomegranate fruit extract have better sperm movement, which is an essential factor in fertility.
This fruit is extremely rich in punicalagin. It’s a compound that protects testicle cells from oxidative damage – a significant contributor to loss of sex drive and harmful to fertility.
Pomegranates may also lower cortisol levels, keeping stress at bay. Note that cortisol level is inversely proportional to that of testosterone. Hence, higher testosterone production is expected to keep your cortisol level low.
Not only for men but daily consumption of pomegranate juice can also increase women’s testosterone levels.
7. Tribulus
Tribulus, particularly Tribulus Terrestris, is one of the most common ingredients in male fertility supplements.
A study revealed that this small leafy plant extract could enhance erectile function and sexual performance in men with mild to moderate levels of ED. Additionally, men taking 1,500 mg of Tribulus daily for 90 days have firmer erections and stronger sexual desire.
Besides that, Tribulus consumption can also help increase testosterone production and improve sex drive in men and women. A study found that taking 750 mg of Tribulus daily for three months increased sexual satisfaction in 88% of women with low sexual pleasure.
8. Saffron
Not only is saffron a flavoursome spice, but it also has many traditional medicinal uses. One of which is as an aphrodisiac. As saffron is habitually used as a stress reliever, some studies found that this spice helps reduce sexual dysfunction for people taking antidepressants.
Like an all-in-one solution, saffron can also help increase sex drive, intensify sexual arousal, improve erectile function, and provide higher sexual satisfaction. That said, the effect is inconsistent when consumed by people with no antidepressant medication.
9. Oysters
Eating oysters is sexy; it’s no wonder that oysters are the cherry on top of all-natural aphrodisiacs.
They are packed with high protein levels, B vitamins, zinc, iron, and d-aspartic acid. The last two chemical compounds control testosterone; consuming oysters can boost your T levels and amplify your sex drive. In the case of zinc, it’s an essential mineral for men’s sexual and reproductive health, especially in men.
Honourable Mentions
When it comes to sexual enhancement, studies on dozens of plants and other natural products are continuously developing. Apart from what we have discussed in the previous section, here are some popular aphrodisiacs to have a look at:
- Honey. Bringing romance into marriages across centuries, mad love is associated as a sexual stimulant. With that being said, studies on this particular aphrodisiac food are nonexistent.
- Alcohol. It’s known that alcohol can be considered an aphrodisiac, as it helps us relax and get in the mood.
- Chasteberry. Researchers found that this particular berry can influence hormone levels, reducing premenstrual syndrome in women.
- Dark chocolate. A special compound in cacao is said to have an aphrodisiac effect on women. Despite it, researchers found little to no evidence to support this belief.
Safety is Priority
Many Australian men suffer from ED, making any sexual enhancement products highly valued.
If you’re one of them, please be wary of the potential long-term adverse side effects, including reduced sexual function. Like any other drug, you may need professional assistance before taking an aphrodisiac.
On top of that, consulting with your doctor is crucial, as certain aphrodisiacs interact with certain drugs. For example, a sexual enhancement pill may interact with prescription medicines containing nitrates. Please note that men with ED often take prescribed drugs containing nitrates.
Final Words
From the most common fruit that is watermelon to one of the most expensive spices that are saffron, these aphrodisiacs pack lots of benefits for an improved sexual experience. Some of the best benefits of consuming these natural remedies for sex are:
- Increased testosterone levels.
- Harder erections for men with ED.
- Intensified sexual arousal and desire.
- Keeping sexual dysfunction at bay.
- More intense sexual pleasure.
- Improved fertility.
Please note that some of the aphrodisiac compounds may interact with prescription medicines. Therefore, always consult your doctor first if you’re taking drugs regularly.
