This may not be the best place to expect honest answers on this subject. Previous discussions have been flooded with spam from supplement marketers.

Whatever responses you get, I suggest you be especially wary of any from people who have just registered with GardenWeb (you can check this by clicking on the My Page hyperlink in their post). Many spammers start promoting products the very same day they register. Also be aware that some herbal aphrodisiac supplements have been found to contain prescription drugs like Cialis.

There is limited evidence any herbal product is going to make a big difference in this area, certainly less than recultivating a relationship with one's partner and getting into good physical shape.

I agree that there are plenty of spammers out there and products to avoid, but disagree that herbs have no capability to affect the libido. Herbs can influence the immune system, neurotransmitters, ion balance, etc. etc., why not the bodily systems associated with sex?

Fitness, diet, and cultivating a relationship are a good basis for sexual health, but for some people, herbs like ginseng, ashwagandha, epimedium, tribulus, ginkgo, and others may also be beneficial.

I have written about many aphrodisiacs at www.aphrodisiology.com. Not trying to sell Dr. Smith's Amazing Patented Elixir of Youth - just writing about what is known about aphrodisiacs and my experiences.

As far as side effects go, I have anxiety and panic disorder, and have noticed definite issues with things like tongkat ali and nutmeg. On the other hand, there are relaxing herbs like passionflower, scutellaria, rose extract, etc. that are good for both anxiety and libido.

Here is a link that might be useful: Aphrodisiology

Selenium is supposed to be helpful to men. I think it is classified as a food supplement, or mineral supplement. Please do research on anything you decide to try. You need to be aware of any contraindications depending upon your personal health, dosages, etc. Do web searches, when you come across something of interest to you!

Zinc has gotten lots of attention for men - it is required to produce testosterone. Selenium might benefit some - will check on that further. My impression was that selenium was especially useful when cadmium or mercury exposure was an issue, or when the anti-oxidant status of the body was low. Certainly, if there is a deficiency in any mineral, it could affect overall health and libido.

Here is a link that might be useful: Zinc and Testosterone

HI again. Since I first posted, I have been experimenting and have had some interesting results. Not results like Viagra... but then I would not want results like that with side effects. But, the combination of a few herbs has in my case at least, been nice. I still have much experimenting to do.

Hi,
I offer you a list of common herbs with proven aphrodisiac effects.
Ginseng
roots
have proven
libido benefits.
It is considered remarkable
herb to increase stamina, decrease fatigue and
fuel the desire. Maybe
you have already tried this,
but I hope to
be helpful.

Some of the herbs on Rhana's list have traditional associations that can be fun to read about.

It is not so benign to encourage use of ginseng for something where there is no demonstrated benefit, potentially adding to the overharvesting of this herb and its eradication from the wild.

Over-zealous collecting of ginseng is a real problem. Using sustainable sources is important.

http://www.blueridgenow.com/article/20121209/ARTICLES/121209833