What Are Aphrodisiacs and What Do They Do?

Aphrodisiacs, named after the Greek goddess Aphrodite, are known to most as specific foods, herbs, or other consumable substances that supposedly help with libido (sex drive) and sexual functioning. Proclaimed aphrodisiacs may have some properties that support the human processes involved in sexual activity, such as natural chemicals that help increase libido, testosterone levels, and endothelial function (the regulation of blood flow). They have also been thought to improve sexual desire, fertility, and sexual pleasure. However, there are also several foods or supplements that became known as aphrodisiacs simply by way of marketing.

Potentially Effective Aphrodisiacs

There are a few foods and supplements that may have similar qualities to meds for erectile dysfunction (ED), although not enough research exists to prove their full function or effectiveness.

Pistachios, for example, contain a lot of L-arginine, which is said to help improve endothelial function and erectile function in men. Figs contain a lot of iron, which is supposed to promote fertility in both men and women. Mixed information lists maca as effective in all facets of sexual health improvement, but also as overblown in the field as an effective natural solution.

Other foods like oysters and watermelon may contain nutritional values that in very high doses promote erectile function in men. However, there is either not enough research available, or the amount of food you’d have to eat in order for it to be effective is virtually impossible.

Supplements like horny goat weed, ginkgo, zinc, and ginseng, may be effective in improving sexual function and fertility, particularly in men for erectile dysfunction. These either improve testosterone (zinc) or endothelial function (horny goat weed, ginseng, ginkgo), which are both needed for maintaining an erection suitable for satisfactory sexual intercourse.

Most of these are not medically acclaimed as effective, nor have they been tested properly in clinical settings.

Myths

Some of the most common aphrodisiacs are foods. However, not all of these foods actually have qualities typical of aphrodisiacs and may just be seen as a “sexy fruit” due to marketing. Alternatively, they may just work on placebo effect, such as chili peppers or honey, simply because they’ve been deemed an aphrodisiac. In fact, most foods would require consumption at a rate that is not humanly possible in order for their sexual health effects to kick in.

Foods like strawberries or dark chocolate are amongst those that have become associated with sexuality due to marketing ploys. What’s better than chocolate-covered strawberries on Valentines Day? While they do taste delicious, these likely only “work” for inducing sexual activity by mere association, or because of general mood-boosting properties of the food.

Others, like saffron, have mixed information about efficacy from researchers. Some say there is potential for saffron to improve endothelial function in men (which in turn would improve erections) and lubrication in women, although this study was conducted on a population who was also taking medication for depression. Some researchers say there is virtually no beneficial effect of the supplement.

Many proclaimed aphrodisiacs and related supplements have not been tested on human populations in a clinical setting, regardless of use in traditional or alternative medicine. Commercially sold supplements may include other ingredients or what would normally be prescription medications. There are even some “aphrodisiacs” like yohimbe, Spanish fly, or saw palmetto, that may be highly toxic if not taken safely (high doses, or for too long) or cause devastating side effects, such as kidney damage, intestinal bleeding, seizures, heart problems, breathing issues, and more.

Conclusion

In general, aphrodisiacs probably don’t do much for sexual functioning. While there are health-related qualities associated with many foods and supplements, they likely do not directly affect sexual health-related functions. Additionally, most testing has been conducted on rodent populations, rather than humans in clinical settings, leaving them less reliable as sources. Always speak with a sexual health professional or your primary provider prior to starting any new supplements, as they may interfere with prescribed medications.

References:

Ali, J., Ansari, S., & Kotta, S. (2013). Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 7(1), 1. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.112832

Cleveland Clinic. (2025, February 10). What are aphrodisiacs?. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-are-aphrodisiacs

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2025, January 3). Can herbs help with erectile dysfunction? what to know. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/in-depth/erectile-dysfunction-herbs/art-20044394

Srivatsav, A., Balasubramanian, A., Pathak, U. I., Rivera-Mirabal, J., Thirumavalavan, N., Hotaling, J. M., Lipshultz, L. I., & Pastuszak, A. W. (2020). Efficacy and safety of common ingredients in aphrodisiacs used for erectile dysfunction: A Review. Sexual Medicine Reviews, 8(3), 431–442. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sxmr.2020.01.001