Humans have been practicing aromatherapy—the use of essential oils from plants and flowers—for thousands of years. Today, research shows that some essential oils may help boost libido and improve erectile dysfunction.

This article will discuss natural ways to improve ED through aromatherapy.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is defined as the frequent inability to get or maintain an erection for sexual activity. It is one of the most common sex problems that men can experience, affecting nearly 30 million men in the United States.

Symptoms include trouble getting an erection, difficulty keeping an erection, and reduced sexual desire.

Men of any age can experience ED, though the likelihood of developing it increases with age.

Along with aging, other risk factors for ED are:

Alcohol consumption DiabetesDrug useObesityLack of sleepHigh cholesterol or high blood pressure SmokingSedentary lifestyleStressDepression or anxiety

Both physical and emotional health are strongly connected to ED.

Essential Oils for ED Symptoms 

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts taken from the flowers, roots, leaves, stems, and fruits of plants. The extracts contain therapeutic properties that may help improve ED.

Cinnamon 

Cinnamon is a powerhouse spice that offers numerous health benefits, including increased blood flow and improved circulation.

In animal studies, cinnamon was found to improve erectile function. It has also been shown to help smooth muscle relaxation in the penis.

Another study showed that cinnamon can increase testosterone levels, sperm count, and sperm motility.

With more testosterone and improved blood flow to the penis, cinnamon may help maintain an erection for sexual activity. However, additional studies are needed to further evaluate the effects of cinnamon.

Clary Sage

Clary sage essential oil is used for stimulating blood flow, balancing hormones, improving mood, and calming the nervous system.

Hormonal imbalances, poor circulation, and stress are all common causes of erectile dysfunction. Clary sage oil may help reduce inhibitions and create feelings of excitement for sexual activity.

Ginger 

Ginger is a powerful antioxidant that is widely used for its numerous health benefits.

One animal study found that daily use of ginger extract increased sperm production after just 22 days of supplementation.

Another study found that a combination of ginger, muira puama, Paullinia cupana, and L-citrulline is effective at delaying or reversing the onset of age-related erectile dysfunction. However, additional research is needed to validate these findings.

Lavender 

Lavender is a popular essential oil, and for good reason. It has a long history of medicinal uses, helping with everything from improving sleep, stabilizing mood, and increasing sexual desire.

One study found that the scent of lavender combined with pumpkin pie increased penile blood flow by 40%.

Aromatherapy with lavender is a simple way to relax, boost mood, and decrease anxiety and depression, which can be helpful in boosting sexual desire and increasing erections.

Rose 

Rose essential oil is beneficial to the circulatory system and is known to increase blood flow to the penis.

One study found that rose extract improved sexual dysfunction in male patients with depression and those who experienced ED as a result of being on SSRIs (medications used to treat mental health disorders).

Rose oil not only improved sexual function in the study participants, but also reduced their depression.

Rose essential oil can also increase testosterone levels, which can enhance sexual desire.

Ylang-Ylang

Ylang-ylang essential oil is used to improve self-esteem, calm anxiety, and provide a sense of well-being. It is also proven to reduce depression, anxiety, hypertension, and stress, which can all interfere with healthy sexual functioning and sexual desire.

Health Benefits 

Erectile dysfunction has several causes, and essential oils may help alleviate some of these common issues.

Essential oils offer a number of health benefits for men to improve erectile dysfunction, including: 

Better sleepImproved circulationIncreased libido Enhanced self-esteem Reduced stressReduced anxiety

A Word From Verywell 

For many men, treating ED requires a trial and error approach. If you want to experiment with essential oils to help with your ED, try out different ones until you find the scents that are most effective and stimulating for you.

While many men find it embarrassing to talk about ED, it’s important to remember that it’s a common condition, and healthcare professionals know how to treat it. Talk to your physician if your ED persists and at-home remedies are not helping. Be persistent until you find the right treatment to improve your sexual health and overall quality of life.

Mix a few drops of essential oil into a carrier oil (e. g. , olive oil, avocado oil) and massage it onto your back and abdomen. Combine a few drops of essential oil with water and spray it on your bedding. Use a diffuser in the bedroom to spread the scent. Use a hot/cold compress to massage onto your abdomen and lower back. Add a few drops to your bathwater.

Do not ingest essential oils, and always dilute them in a carrier oil before applying to the skin.