Ginger Aphrodisiac & Science-Backed Sexual Benefits

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Ginger, a popular Eastern spice, has a rich history as an aphrodisiac. Dating back to the first century AD, physician Dioscorides recommended ginger as a way to stimulate male sexual health. Today, modern science provides a deeper understanding of ginger’s impact on sexual health. Let’s take a closer look at some of the evidence-based ginger benefits sexually.

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What is ginger used for sexually?

Ginger is an aphrodisiac food used around the world as a libido-boosting, medicinal treatment. For example, aphrodisiac ginger is used in India, mixed with eggs and honey, as a treatment for impotence. And in traditional Chinese medicine, this spice is beloved for its ability to improve circulation to hands, feet and even the sex organs. It is also rumored that, in the far reaches of the world, this root is even applied topically to private parts to enliven men’s fading desires. (Do not try this!)

According to The Aphrodisiac Encyclopaedia, centuries before humans knew why ginger was effective, it was observed that eating the spice “increased lustful yearnings.”

How can ginger increase your libido naturally?

Ginger is a relative of turmeric, a spice famous for its health benefits. And ginger even shares some similarities with turmeric in the ways this spice can impact libido. Like turmeric, ginger is believed to reduce oxidative stress in the body.

The most noted way ginger is used as a sex aid is that this humble spice is linked with increased blood flow and improved circulation. But how does better blood flow improve your performance sexually?

Poor circulation is one of the most common causes of erectile dysfunction in men. And ginger may prove to be a powerful aid in fighting this surprisingly common sexual dysfunction. Keep in mind that, although poor circulation is more often talked about as an issue for men, it can also negatively impact women’s libido and ability to reach climax.

Of course, improvement of circulation is a primary way ginger is used sexually but there may be other ways – perhaps even more effective ways – to use ginger for seduction and sexual satisfaction. In order to understand this, we need to take a closer look at ginger’s benefits specific to men and to women.

Benefits for men

Better circulation can give both women and men a better experience in the bedroom. But some of ginger’s most exciting properties are specifically enjoyed by men. So while women should definitely enjoy ginger for its flavor and health properties, it’s men who really reap the most rewards from this delicious spice.

Is ginger good for male enhancement?

Ginger is considered one of the few foods linked with male enhancement. In one 2018 study, subjects reported improved erections from taking Kaempferia parviflora supplements. (Kaempferia parviflora is a plant in the ginger family.) We assume this is because it is a proven aid to circulation. But the Kaempferia parviflora study was quite small and this and other research to date on this topic is considered inconclusive.

Linked with reducing erectile dysfunction

According to multiple studies, including this one published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, ginger might reduce blood pressure in a similar way, (and possibly as effectively), as certain prescription medications used to treat erectile dysfunction. Not only does the natural benefit of ginger to reduce blood pressure improve heart and vein health but it also impacts sexual performance and the ability to reach sexual climax.

In addition, a 2017 study on the use of ginger as a circulatory supplement highlighted the spice’s potential as a treatment for ED. It isn’t complete proof but it certainly lends legitimacy to the claim that ginger may have a positive effect on sexual function. Unfortunately, there is no data good available on how or how much ginger is required to give men a sexual boost.

May increase testosterone production

A 2018 study linked ginger and testosterone production. And this may be the true key to ginger benefits to manhood. Certainly, it proves promising to men struggling with hormonal imbalance.

Testosterone is one of the vital hormones for men’s sexual performance and sex drive. According to the study, ginger may stimulate testosterone production by enhancing blood flow and increasing levels of luteinizing hormone. This is promising news for men who suffer from low libido.

May improve fertility in men

One of the benefits of ginger for men is that it may improve male fertility. According to a 2012 study, ginger increased sperm motility in men with known fertility issues. (It’s not surprising since reducing oxidative stress is linked with male fertility.)

It should be added that, while all of this research linking ginger with sexual health sounds incredibly promising, further research is needed to determine whether or not ginger can improve the sexual health of all men and how it might be used for fertility. It is also unknown what quantity of ginger a man would need to eat to reach the desired effects. Please talk to a medical professional before experimenting with using ginger for manhood on your own.

Ginger benefits sexually for women

Although there are not as many evidence-based benefits for women as there are for men, ginger are indications that ginger can also support women’s sexual health and sexual function.

May improve women’s fertility

In one animal study, ginger appeared to improve female fertility. Although research on ginger and fertility is still in its infancy, this spice shows remarkable promise in helping women who are trying to conceive.

Offers nutrition for sexual health

A sex benefit of ginger for women you might never have thought of is that, despite being low-calorie, it’s nutritious. And it just happens to contain traces of nutrients beneficial to women’s sexual health, which according to USDA FoodData Central include potassium, magnesium and vitamin C. (These nutrients are also essential to men’s sexual health.)

May improve sexual function and sexual quality of life

But one of the best ways that ginger can help women is how it may impact libido and sexual function. As I mentioned earlier, the spice can increase circulation, and the resulting benefits don’t just apply to men. The fact that ginger improves circulation indicates that it can increase a woman’s sexual pleasure and ability to reach climax naturally.

And in fact, the findings of a double-blind controlled trial published in 2022 support that assertion. The study found that women who took 250mg of ginger four times per day had significantly higher scores on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) than before the intervention. Unfortunately, the study was quite small but it makes a great indication that ginger has the potential to help women sexually.

How to use ginger for seduction

As an aphrodisiac for women as well as men, a meal made with ginger is good for your sex life in a very interesting way. The experience of eating ginger can be a turn-on.

Ginger is known to raise body temperature. You know that feeling of getting warmer and warmer as you eat chile peppers? Ginger can have the same effect, only the impact is more subtle when you eat ginger. The sting of fresh ginger in your mouth can also make your lips plump up with kissable softness and desirability. (This is one of my favorite uses of ginger for sexual desire because the effect is immediate.) Although it may be subtle, this sexy effect of eating ginger is something to keep in mind when planning a night of seduction.

Should you take ginger for sex in capsule form?

Keep in mind that if you are considering ginger supplementation in capsule form, you should first seek medical advice. Herbal supplements are not controlled as stringently as medications and some can interact with prescription medications. That being said, ginger, whether it is fresh, dried, or taken as a supplement, may have some surprisingly positive effects. See the links at the bottom of the page for recipes that can help you incorporate ginger into your diet naturally.

Does the combination of ginger and garlic help sexually?

Both ginger and garlic are known as aphrodisiacs. And both of these natural ingredients offer some scientifically proven benefits to sexual health and sexual performance. (Here’s more on the sexual benefits of garlic.) This may be why there’s a common belief that a combination of the two will offer even more powerful sexual benefits.

But there is no proven sex benefit to combining ginger with garlic. Some natural health proponents suggest that combining garlic with ginger and honey is an even more potent sexual aid. But again, although all three ingredients show some potential to support sexual health naturally, there’s no proven benefit to combining these three ingredients.

Benefits of ginger to overall health and wellbeing

Ginger may help you feel and look your best. That’s because gingerol, the main bioactive compound in ginger, is rich in antioxidant effects. It is proven to reduce both oxidative stress and inflammation. (The potential benefits of reduced oxidative stress were discussed above.) In addition to possibly boosting sexual experience and male fertility, these rejuvenating properties help fight the aging process. Additionally, the antioxidants in ginger are even linked with improving brain function.

Beyond getting your heart fluttering, your lips plumping and your blood pumping, ginger is used as a treatment for fatigue and upset stomachs. And ginger’s success as a treatment for nausea even includes treating morning sickness. (Note that ginger is not recommended for all pregnant women. If you are expecting, check with a physician before using ginger.)

Studies show that ginger may even have weight loss benefits and might be beneficial to those needing to shed excess body fat. (Keep in mind that weight loss is sometimes considered part of a healthy treatment plan for overweight men suffering from erectile dysfunction.)

While none of these ginger benefits directly impact your sex life, all of them add up to helping you look and feel the sexiest. So even when it’s not used specifically to boost sexual health, ginger may be helping your sex life.

Side effects

Culinary ginger is considered relatively safe. But in large doses, it can cause mouth and throat irritation and even cramping and diarrhea. Additionally, some experts recommend avoiding ginger if you have certain conditions like blood disorders. (The positive effects of ginger on blood circulation may cause complications for those suffering from hemophilia.) Anyone taking medication for high blood pressure or diabetes should also check with a doctor before consuming ginger to prevent interactions.

How to incorporate ginger into your diet

One of ginger’s greatest proponents, “all-knowing” Confucius, supposedly added ginger to every meal. I love using this spicy root in my cooking, too. It can be used fresh, dried, powdered, candied, or even made into juice. Sometimes, I even prefer adding it raw for an extra bite. One of my favorite uses for raw ginger is this Turkey Congee with Cranberries.

Another renowned proponent of ginger root, French legend Madame du Barry, made a practice of serving it to her lovers. Why? Because it was said to drive all, including her most famous lover, Louis XV, to a state of complete and utter submissiveness. If you want to treat your lover to this food of temptation, try this recipe for Breakfast In Bed Triple Gingerbread. It uses three kinds of ginger for the most powerfully stimulating effect.

More ginger recipes:
Hibiscus Hot Toddy Cocktail
East Indian Gin Gimlet
Vegan Spinach and Ginger Smoothie
Pumpkin Pie Protein Shake
Grilled Ginger Sesame Chicken Salad
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Jicama Salad
Spicy Thai Fish Cakes
Korean Beef Stew with Soy-Braised Bok Choy
Cold Soba Noodle Salad for Two
Coconut Shrimp Thai Curry
Lamb Tagine with Pomegranates
Six-Spice Oatmeal Cookies
Easy Gingersnaps

Like this article? Click here to find more foods to improve your sex life!

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Edited by Delahna Flagg: This article was reviewed and additional research provided by Center for Mind-Body Medicine certified practitioner and Eat Something Sexy Nutrition Director Delahna Flagg.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It is important to consult your physician before making dietary changes

This article was written in 2010 and most recently updated in February 2023.

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Amy Reiley

An award-winning author of five aphrodisiac cookbooks with an MA in Gastronomy, Amy Reiley has spent the past 18 years studying the history and science behind aphrodisiac foods. She speaks on aphrodisiacs globally and has brought her knowledge of aphrodisiac foods to national television shows including The Today Show and CBS Early Show. Amy is also a freelance food, wine and health writer and wine competition judge. Her work has appeared in publications ranging from Variety to The Daily Meal. She is a former wine editor for Gayot.com and wine & spirits editor of Las Vegas magazine. Most importantly, Amy is a mother to 2 human children and 1 standard poodle.

What is ginger used for sexually?

How can ginger increase your libido naturally?