Decreased libido, sexual disorders, search for fulfilling sexuality… To stimulate one's desire or (re)find pleasure, using natural aphrodisiacs can be one of the solutions. But how do they work and what benefits do they provide for our sexual health?

The term “aphrodisiac,” which appeared in the 18th century, comes from Greek mythology, specifically from Aphrodite, the goddess of love. It refers to a natural substance (of plant or animal origin) capable of stimulating our libido and increasing our sexual performance. This could include plants , spices , or animal horns with suggestive shapes , for example.

According to Dr. Gilbert Bou Jaoudé, a sexologist, it is “ difficult to make a scientific statement about aphrodisiacs and natural products because very few studies have been conducted on them. This is because there are obstacles to such research .” Indeed, the difficulties lie in the variable quality of crops of so-called aphrodisiac plants (which have different chemical compositions), the choice of molecules to isolate, and determining the appropriate dosage for effectiveness. However, in addition to prescription medications, some herbal alternatives can help. In fact, aphrodisiac benefits have been recognized in certain plants after several studies, which we explain below!

For some, the term "aphrodisiac" is originally based on beliefs: if you are convinced that a product will be good for you, it will already have a positive effect. Acting on both psychological and physiological aspects, the placebo effect is observed to be around 15 to 30%, or even higher depending on the study's objectives. If eating chocolate is a natural stress reliever for you, there's a good chance you'll be more relaxed, and therefore more engaged in sexual pleasure. Anything that stimulates the production of endorphins (the pleasure hormone) will have benefits for your body and mind. The best aphrodisiac depends on your own sensitivity, on what stimulates it, because the concept of pleasure varies greatly from person to person.

With scientifically proven results, but some reservations about the benefits provided:

• Le fresh onion juice is effective as a sexual stimulant, but you should drink 1L to 1,5L, 30 minutes to 1 hour before intercourse. Not very practical!
• La watermelon also has aphrodisiac effects, if consumed 2 per day.
• La yohimbine, tree bark extract, acts on the alpha receptors (controlling physiological processes at the cellular level) of our body, increases blood pressure and therefore allows congestion in the genitals. It offers more sensations, facilitates erection and stimulates the clitoris, but it is only available on medical prescription because of its side effects (pressure surge, increased heart rate, tremors, dizziness).

Vaginismus (prolonged reflex contraction of the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the vaginal opening), premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction (failure to achieve an erection), loss of libido, menopausal symptoms… The pressure to perform in our society and the importance placed on the opinions of others can create intense pressure and negatively impact our well-being. Sexuality, in particular, is not immune. Factors such as menstrual cycles, chronic illnesses, stress, and anxiety can exacerbate this decline in sexual performance (as explained by sexologist Marie De Quidt in one of the episodes of our podcast HO KALM). Using natural aphrodisiacs can be a starting point, as can consulting a sex therapist.

Beyond a current desire for a more fulfilling sex life , a yearning for change can also be felt. Breaking the routine, a need for renewal … natural aphrodisiacs bring their share of curiosity and fantasy, encouraging people to try them. Rediscovering one's sensations from a different perspective and learning about sexuality becomes personalized. For example, some sex-related accounts (Jouissance Club, Orgasme et Moi…) offer a wide range of possibilities in a fun and uninhibited way, so that everyone can find something that suits them.

Knowing your body well and experimenting with confidence is something you can learn. And that's what allows you to free your mind , to enjoy the moment and experience pleasure. That's when you can cultivate desire, and when the chemistry in your brain kicks in. A cocktail of feel-good hormones (dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins) acts as a natural aphrodisiac!

With its stress-relieving and pain-relieving benefits , CBD can also help. This is largely due to the entourage effect of substances derived from the hemp plant. Broad -spectrum CBD, meaning it's extracted with other molecules (terpenes, other cannabinoids like CBG and CBN), benefits from a synergistic action with these compounds. Under these conditions, CBD naturally acts more effectively. Given that we have cannabinoid receptors in our reproductive organs, CBD can help us experience more intense sensations. More lightness = more pleasure!

Our senses of smell, taste, touch, hearing, and sight also provide important information to our brain, and our body reacts to it. Are you particularly sensitive to a scent, a caress, a piece of music… (read about the power of scents on our emotions )? It might have the effect of an aphrodisiac. So, establishing a wellness ritual can be a good way to boost your pleasure . A sensual shower, an outfit that makes you feel desirable, or the use of a lubricant. For example, our Libertine Oil is edible and can be part of a sensual game . Rich in plant oils, CBD, and aphrodisiac plants (fig, ginseng, ginger, cocoa), it allows for comfortable glide, combined with intense arousal, while leaving the intimate area soothed. According to our gynecological clinical study conducted on 21 women, 100% reported its effectiveness. Among the most frequent feedback: its smell is pleasant, the lubrication lasts for several minutes, and it facilitates the build-up of pleasure.