Fenugreek spices up the male libido

Fenugreek is a spice that is best known for its use in curry dishes. But its benefits go beyond your taste buds — it can help you amp up your sex life.

A 6 week study reported in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that a fenugreek supplement boosted libido in 82% of men. 63% of the men taking the fenugreek noted an improvement in the quality of sexual performance and 67% of men indicated that it enhanced their sexual recovery time.

Fenugreek (known by its botanical name Trigonella foenum-graecum), is a plant used both as an herb (the leaves) and a spice (the seed); it’s a common ingredient in many curries. It has been studied in the past for its effects in blood sugar maintenance in diabetics and its cholesterol-lowering effects among those with hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol and high triglycerides).

Fenugreek seeds are rich in a chemical compound known as saponins. According to the study authors, one of the common saponins found in fenugreek is diosgenin which affects the production of a number of sex hormones. The men in the study reported pronounced and welcome improvements to their sexual desire, arousal and performance. In addition, 82% of the men taking the fenugreek also reported higher levels of general energy. Whether the latter effect was a direct result of fenugreek or from increased sexual activity was not described. But we’re guessing the men in the study don’t really care!

Fenugreek has also been shown in studies to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It has been used for treating menopausal symptoms, treating digestive problems and to stimulate the production of milk in breastfeeding women.

Fenugreek Increases Sexual Desire and Arousal in Women

In a 2012 study, researchers recruited 80 women aged between 20 and 49 who reported they had low sex drive. They were randomly divided into either a control group, who received a placebo or a group that was given an oral dose of fenugreek supplement (600 mg/daily).The results showed a significant increase in sexual desire and arousal as well as a marked increase in sexual activity. Discussing the findings, doctors said estradiol stimulates vaginal lubrication and blood flow, positively affecting a woman’s capacity for sexual arousal and orgasm, and that the study results appear to support this beneficial effect in women..