Ashwagandha: A libido boosting aphrodisiac?

Ashwagandha, already well known in India, is used to treat headaches, stress, and insomnia. With all these healing virtues, could this plant also give a boost to your libido?

What is ashwagandha?

This plant is part of the traditional Indian pharmacopoeia, Ayurveda. Often called ‘Indian ginseng,’ ashwagandha in Sanskrit is a mix between the word ‘ashva’ (horse) and ‘gandha’ (smell), which is fitting because this plant has the particularity of smelling like a horse.

In addition to smelling like a stable, this plant has - and this is where it gets interesting - aphrodisiac properties as well!

Its effect on the body is simple: ashwagandha increases blood flow to the sexual organs, and thus boosts desire, and the erection. According to a study published in 2011 by the International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy, this root could be one of the solutions to erectile and sexual dysfunctions. No more Viagra, long live ashwagandha!

How should ashwagandha be used?

Nutritionist Gerda Endermann gave some advice in a publication on Gwyneth Paltrow’s (in)famous site Goop on how to best use ashwagandha.

She details that the food supplements based on this root that are available in shops are not all of the same quality. This is why, before you buy some, make sure you check for ashwagandha's scientific name, ‘Withania somnifera,’ which appears in the list of ingredients.

As a reminder, before using any supplement for your sex life, even herbal, it is always best to seek advice from a doctor. If you get the green light, you’re in business!