Evidence supporting the use of: Ginseng (unspecified)
For the health condition: Sex Drive (low)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Ginseng, particularly Panax ginseng, has a long history in traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine for supporting vitality and sexual function. Modern scientific studies have explored these traditional claims, with several clinical trials and meta-analyses investigating ginseng's effects on libido and sexual function, primarily in men but to some extent in women as well.
Research indicates that ginseng may have a positive effect on sexual desire and function. For example, a 2013 systematic review in British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that Panax ginseng could improve erectile function compared to placebo in men with erectile dysfunction. Some studies also suggest benefits for libido and sexual satisfaction, potentially due to ginsenosides (active compounds in ginseng) impacting nitric oxide synthesis, hormone regulation, and stress reduction.
However, the quality of evidence varies. Many studies have small sample sizes, short durations, and sometimes use different preparations or doses of ginseng. While results are promising, more rigorous, large-scale studies are needed for definitive conclusions. Overall, there is moderate scientific support (rated 3/5) for using ginseng to support low sex drive, especially in men, but it should not be considered a guaranteed or primary treatment.
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
Eurycomanone
Elk antler
Eurycoma Longifolia
Estrogen
Furostanols
Fadogia agrestis
Horny Goat Weed
icariin
Labisia pumila
Macamides
Maral Root
Massularia acuminata
Miroestrol
Macaenes
Protodioscin
Safed musli
Tribuloside
Vitex Agnus-Castus
yohimbine
Other health conditions supported by Ginseng (unspecified)
Addictions (general remedies for)Alzheimer's Disease
Anemia
Anxiety
Arthritis
Athletic and Exercise Aids
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Colds (general)
Concentration (poor)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestive Heart Failure
Dementia
Depression
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Hypertension
Insomnia
Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
Muscle Tone (lack of)
Nervous Exhaustion
Nervousness
Parkinson's Disease
Premature Ejaculation
Sex Drive (low)
Stress
Testosterone (low)
Thinking (cloudy)
Tinnitus
Triglycerides (high)
Worry