1 Several supplements have clinical evidence supporting modest improvements in sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction in women. Understanding what the research supports, what remains unproven, and what underlying causes should be addressed medically helps women make informed choices about libido supplements.
For a thorough review of the root causes, see our guide to low libido causes in women.
Why Libido Declines in Women
Female sexual desire is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, neurotransmitters, relationship dynamics, physical health, and psychological wellbeing. Common contributors to reduced libido include:
- Hormonal changes: Declining estrogen (perimenopause, menopause, postpartum, breastfeeding) and testosterone affect desire and arousal. Testosterone, while present in smaller amounts in women than men, plays a meaningful role in female sexual motivation — see low estrogen symptoms in women.
- Stress and cortisol elevation: Chronic stress suppresses both estrogen and testosterone
- Sleep deprivation: Significantly reduces testosterone and sexual interest
- Depression and anxiety: Among the most common causes of reduced libido
- Medications: SSRIs, SNRIs, hormonal contraceptives, and antihypertensives commonly reduce desire as a side effect
- Relationship factors: Emotional disconnection, conflict, and unresolved issues are major drivers of low desire
- Medical conditions: Thyroid disease, diabetes, chronic pain conditions, and pelvic floor disorders2
Best-Evidenced Libido Supplements for Women
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is among the most rigorously studied libido supplements for women. A 2015 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in BioMed Research International evaluated 50 women taking 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily for 8 weeks. 3
The proposed mechanisms include cortisol reduction (ashwagandha is a well-evidenced adaptogen), support for testosterone levels, and anxiolytic effects that reduce performance anxiety.
Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)
Multiple clinical trials — including those in women with SSRI-related sexual dysfunction and healthy perimenopausal women — suggest maca modestly improves sexual desire and function. A 2008 randomized study found significant improvements in sexual dysfunction scores in women taking maca compared to placebo, independent of changes in hormone levels. 2
Maca is well tolerated and food-derived, making it a practical starting point for women exploring libido supplements. See our full guide to maca root benefits for hormones and libido. Red maca is the variety most often highlighted for women's hormonal goals, so choosing a maca color can depend on what you are hoping to support.
Saffron (Crocus sativus)
Saffron has been studied specifically for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction in women. 1
Saffron contains safranal and crocin, compounds with serotonin-modulating and antioxidant properties. At culinary doses (used in cooking) it is very safe; supplemental doses warrant care if combined with other serotonergic compounds.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus is one of the more commonly studied libido supplements for women specifically. A Brazilian study of 67 women with HSDD found that 750 mg/day of a standardized tribulus extract significantly improved sexual desire, arousal, and lubrication scores over 90 days. 4
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
A small double-blind RCT found that a standardized fenugreek extract (Libifem, 600 mg/day) significantly improved sexual desire and arousal in healthy premenopausal women compared to placebo. Fenugreek contains furostanolic saponins that may support androgen activity. 4
L-Arginine
L-arginine is an amino acid precursor to nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle and increases blood flow to genital tissues. Some research suggests topical or oral L-arginine may enhance genital arousal and vaginal lubrication. Combination products using L-arginine alongside other compounds (such as ginseng or damiana) have shown improvements in arousal scores in small trials.
Supplements Commonly Used but with Limited Evidence
Several supplements are widely marketed for female libido but have limited, inconsistent, or no direct clinical evidence in women:
- DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone): Shows evidence for postmenopausal vaginal atrophy and associated sexual pain (low-dose topical DHEA/prasterone is FDA-approved for this indication). Oral DHEA supplements for premenopausal women have less clear evidence and can cause androgenic side effects.
- Ginkgo biloba: Some evidence for SSRI-related sexual dysfunction; general evidence for female libido is limited
- Muira puama: Traditional Amazon aphrodisiac; limited clinical research in women
- Red clover isoflavones: May support menopausal vaginal symptoms; direct libido effects are not well established5
Important Safety Considerations
Before taking any libido supplement, consider:
- Drug interactions: Ashwagandha and saffron may interact with sedatives and thyroid medications. Tribulus and fenugreek may affect blood sugar. Ginkgo may increase bleeding risk with anticoagulants.
- Hormone-sensitive conditions: Women with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, endometriosis, or fibroids should discuss any supplement with their oncologist or gynecologist, as some compounds may have hormonal activity.
- Quality and standardization: Supplement quality varies enormously. Choose products with third-party testing and standardized active compound content.
- Underlying causes: No supplement substitutes for addressing underlying causes of low libido — hormonal evaluation, medication review, relationship counseling, or mental health treatment may be far more effective.3
When to See a Doctor
Consider speaking with a healthcare provider if:
- Low libido is persistent (6 months or more) and causing personal distress or relationship difficulties
- Low desire began after starting a new medication, including hormonal contraceptives or antidepressants
- You are in perimenopause or postmenopause and experiencing vaginal dryness or pain alongside low desire
- You have a history of depression, anxiety, or trauma that may be contributing
- You want to explore FDA-approved treatments such as flibanserin (Addyi) for premenopausal HSDD or bremelanotide (Vyleesi)
A gynecologist, sexual health physician, or therapist specializing in sexual health can conduct a thorough evaluation. 2 Visit the sexual health hub for the full collection.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most effective libido supplement for women?
Ashwagandha has the strongest randomized controlled trial evidence for improving multiple domains of female sexual function (desire, arousal, lubrication, satisfaction). Maca root and saffron also have meaningful clinical support. The most effective supplement for any individual depends on the underlying cause of reduced libido.
Can libido supplements replace hormone therapy?
No. For women with significant hormonal changes — particularly estrogen deficiency in menopause causing vaginal atrophy and pain, or testosterone deficiency — hormonal treatments prescribed by a physician are typically far more effective than supplements. Supplements may be useful adjuncts or alternatives for women who prefer not to use hormones for mild-moderate concerns.
Do libido supplements work for women on antidepressants?
Saffron and maca root both have small clinical studies specifically in women experiencing SSRI-related sexual dysfunction, and results are encouraging. However, stopping or changing antidepressants to restore libido should be done only in consultation with a psychiatrist or prescribing provider.
Are libido supplements safe during perimenopause?
Ashwagandha, maca, and tribulus are generally considered safe for most perimenopausal women without hormone-sensitive conditions. Women with estrogen-sensitive conditions should consult their gynecologist before use, as some plant compounds have weak estrogenic or androgenic activity.
How long does it take for libido supplements to work?
Most clinical trials show effects developing over 4–12 weeks of consistent daily use. Libido supplements are not immediate-acting agents. Addressing contributing lifestyle factors — sleep, stress, relationship health — alongside supplementation improves outcomes.