Evidence supporting the use of: Arginine-L-malate
For the health condition: Sex Drive (low)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Arginine-L-malate is a salt composed of L-arginine and malic acid. L-arginine is an amino acid that serves as a precursor for nitric oxide (NO), a vasodilator involved in blood flow. The rationale for using L-arginine (and by extension, Arginine-L-malate) to support low sex drive largely comes from its role in enhancing blood flow, which is a key factor in sexual function, especially erectile function in men.
There are several studies examining L-arginine supplementation for erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition that can contribute to low sex drive. Some clinical trials have shown that L-arginine, especially at doses of 3–5 grams per day, can improve erectile function, particularly in men with mild to moderate ED. The effect is believed to be due to increased nitric oxide production, facilitating vasodilation and improved penile blood flow. However, most research focuses on L-arginine itself, not specifically the L-malate salt.
Evidence for a direct effect on libido or sex drive (beyond improving ED) is weak. There is very limited research on the use of Arginine-L-malate specifically for low sex drive, and the studies that do exist often combine it with other supplements, making it difficult to isolate its effect. Overall, while there is some scientific basis for L-arginine's role in supporting aspects of sexual function, the evidence for its efficacy in boosting sex drive is limited and not robust.
Other ingredients used for Sex Drive (low)
ashwagandhachaste tree
damiana
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
fenugreek
ginseng
l-arginine
maca
muira puama
tongkat ali
tribulus
velvet bean
zinc
cistanche
barrenwort
yohimbe
Antler
Bulbine natalensis
Ba Ji Tian
Butea superba
Curculigo orchicides
Cnidium
Catuaba
D-Aspartic Acid
Dendrobium
Elk antler
Estrogen
yohimbine
Other health conditions supported by Arginine-L-malate
Athletic and Exercise AidsCirculation (poor)
Energy (lack of)
Erectile Dysfunction
Exercise
Fatigue
Sex Drive (low)
Wounds and Sores