4 supplements that might be sneakily sapping your libido
Key Points:
- Some popular supplements like melatonin, saw palmetto, St. John’s wort, and licorice root may negatively impact libido by altering hormone levels tied to sexual desire.
- Melatonin, commonly used for sleep, can suppress reproductive hormones by affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, potentially reducing sexual interest, though research is limited.
- Saw palmetto, taken for hair loss and prostate issues, may lower testosterone levels in some men, potentially leading to decreased libido despite its intended benefits.
- St. John’s wort, used for mood support, can cause sexual side effects such as erectile dysfunction and lowered sex drive, and it also interacts harmfully with many medications.
- Licorice root may reduce testosterone levels, which could impact libido, but further research is needed to fully understand its effects.