From the Guidelines
Herbal support for low libido is not recommended due to the lack of regulation and inconsistent quality of herbal products, as well as the insufficiency of data on their effectiveness and safety, as stated in the 2005 study 1. Instead, patients with low libido should be re-evaluated at regular intervals and discussed available drugs, such as androgens, bupropion, buspirone, flibanserin, and bremelanotide, as well as topical vaginal therapies, vaginal dilators, ospemifene, DHEA, pelvic physical therapy, and topical anesthetics, as suggested in the 2024 NCCN guidelines 1. Some key points to consider when addressing low libido include:
- Re-evaluating patients at regular intervals to assess their sexual function and address any concerns
- Discussing available treatment options, including medications and topical therapies
- Considering referral to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment
- Emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep, stress management, regular exercise, and a nutritious diet in maintaining overall health and well-being. It is essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments and consult a healthcare provider before starting any new therapies, especially if taking medications or having underlying health conditions.
From the Research
Herbal Support for Low Libido
There are no direct research papers on herbal support for low libido in the provided evidence. However, some studies mention the use of certain herbal supplements in the context of erectile dysfunction or low sexual desire.
- Ginseng is one herbal supplement that has been studied for its potential effects on erectile dysfunction. A 2022 study 2 found that ginseng may have a trivial effect on erectile dysfunction when compared to placebo.
- The provided evidence primarily focuses on phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, rather than herbal support for low libido.
- Some studies discuss the use of testosterone therapy for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women 3, but this is not directly related to herbal support for low libido.
Limitations of Current Research
- The current research on herbal support for low libido is limited, and more studies are needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using herbal supplements for this purpose.
- The provided evidence is primarily focused on PDE5Is and testosterone therapy, rather than herbal support for low libido.
- Further research is needed to explore the potential effects of herbal supplements on low libido and to determine their safety and efficacy.