How Female Enhancement Ingredients Work

L-Arginine

L-Arginine is an amino acid that the body converts into nitric oxide (NO), a signalling molecule that relaxes and dilates blood vessels. In female genital tissue, increased nitric oxide production leads to greater blood flow to the clitoris and vaginal walls, promoting engorgement, lubrication, and sensitivity. This mechanism is well established in the scientific literature. Nitric oxide synthase activity in the genital tract is significantly lower in women with sexual dysfunction than in those without, making L-Arginine a logical ingredient for topical arousal formulas.

Reference: Kim NN, et al. Role of arginase in the male and female sexual arousal response. J Nutr. 2004;134(10 Suppl):2873S-2879S. PubMed

Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Niacin is a water-soluble B vitamin that supports vasodilation through prostaglandin D2 release and lipid modulation. Topically, niacin is believed to act as an agonist of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), complementing the action of L-Arginine by amplifying local nitric oxide production. In this formula, Niacin is included as a mechanistic support ingredient within the broader NO-cGMP pathway.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba extract (GBE) promotes peripheral blood flow, influences nitric oxide systems, and exerts a relaxant effect on smooth muscle tissue, processes that are directly relevant to female sexual arousal, which requires vascular engorgement and smooth muscle relaxation in the clitoral and vaginal tissues. A clinical study administering a single 300 mg dose of GBE found a small but statistically significant facilitatory effect on physiological sexual arousal in women with Sexual Arousal Disorder compared with placebo.

Reference: Meston CM, et al. Short- and long-term effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on sexual dysfunction in women. Arch Sex Behav. 2008;37(4):530-547. PubMed

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa Butter is a rich natural fat derived from cocoa beans. It softens and conditions delicate mucosal tissue. It forms a light protective layer that helps maintain hydration and reduces sensitivity to friction, supporting comfort during intimacy.

Olive Squalene

Olive Squalene, derived from olive oil, is a naturally occurring lipid that is structurally similar to human sebum. It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue and is exceptionally well tolerated by sensitive skin. Its inclusion helps the active ingredients spread smoothly and supports the skin barrier after use.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera gel is a widely used topical ingredient valued for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and hydrating properties. In intimate formulations, it reduces friction, supports natural lubrication, and helps calm localised irritation. Its high water content also helps give the gel its light, non-sticky texture.

Menthol

Menthol is derived from peppermint oil and activates cold-sensitive nerve receptors (TRPM8) in the skin, creating a cooling or warming sensation that heightens tactile awareness. In arousal products, this heightened sensitivity is precisely the point. The sensation draws attention to the area and may amplify the body’s own arousal signals.

Dipropylene Glycol

Dipropylene Glycol is a cosmetic-grade glycol used as a carrying agent to support consistent distribution of active ingredients throughout the gel matrix. It is well established in personal care formulations and is generally considered safe and non-irritating at the concentrations used in topical products.

Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Niacin supports cardiovascular health by modulating lipid levels and promoting vasodilation. Adequate niacin levels are associated with the body’s ability to synthesise sex hormones and support the neurological pathways involved in sexual response. It also plays a role in energy metabolism, which underpins overall vitality and drive.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Hops contain 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), considered one of the most potent phytoestrogens identified in plants. Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds that bind weakly to oestrogen receptors, offering mild oestrogenic support without synthetic hormones. Hops are also traditionally used as a calmative, which matters for sexual health, because tension and anxiety are two of the most common barriers to female arousal.

Mucuna Pruriens (Velvet Bean)

Mucuna pruriens seeds contain L-Dopa (levodopa), a direct precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine plays a central role in motivation, reward, and sexual desire. By supporting healthy dopamine levels, Mucuna pruriens may help support libido that has been diminished by chronic stress, low mood, or hormonal imbalance. Research also suggests it can reduce prolactin, a hormone that inhibits testosterone, which is relevant to libido in both men and women. Evidence for Mucuna’s role in women’s sexual function remains limited and is better viewed as indirect or preliminary support rather than established female clinical proof.

Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed)

Epimedium’s primary active compound, icariin, is a flavonoid associated with phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) pathway activity. By influencing this pathway, icariin may help support smooth muscle relaxation and healthy blood flow to genital tissue. Epimedium also contains phytoestrogens, and research has noted beneficial effects on bone density in postmenopausal women. Human clinical trials directly assessing its effect on female sexual function remain limited, so it is best described here as a mechanistic and preclinical support ingredient rather than a strongly proven women-specific therapy.

Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Cayenne Pepper contains capsaicin, which may help support circulation by promoting vasodilation and increasing body temperature locally. In the context of a female libido supplement, improved circulation may help deliver other active ingredients more effectively and support genital tissue engorgement during arousal. Cayenne also has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and is widely used as a natural metabolic activator.

Ginkgo Biloba

See the HerSolution® Gel entry above for a full profile of Ginkgo Biloba. In an oral supplement context, its role is to support systemic peripheral circulation and reduce vascular constriction that can impair sexual arousal, particularly in women whose dysfunction has a circulatory component.

Reference: Meston CM, et al. Short- and long-term effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on sexual dysfunction in women. Arch Sex Behav. 2008;37(4):530-547. PubMed

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Its inclusion in a female sexual health supplement addresses an often overlooked factor. Poor sleep consistently correlates with reduced libido, lower oestrogen levels, and diminished sexual satisfaction. By supporting sleep quality, melatonin may help create the physiological conditions in which the other ingredients can work more effectively.

Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus terrestris is one of the most studied botanicals for female sexual function. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis found that Tribulus terrestris produced a statistically significant improvement in overall female sexual function, including sexual arousal, desire, and orgasm, compared with placebo. Its proposed mechanism involves modulation of androgen receptors and support for free testosterone levels, which play an important role in female libido independent of oestrogen.

Reference: Sha’ari N, et al. Beneficial effects of natural products on female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine. 2021;93:153760. PubMed

Black Cohosh Root (Actaea racemosa)

Black Cohosh is one of the most studied botanicals for menopausal symptom management. Its mechanism is not purely oestrogenic. Research suggests it acts on serotonin receptors, which is why it can reduce hot flushes and night sweats without stimulating oestrogen-sensitive tissue. A 2023 meta-analysis covering 2,310 menopausal women found that Black Cohosh extracts produced statistically significant improvements in overall menopausal symptoms, hot flushes, and somatic symptoms compared with placebo. For women experiencing reduced sexual desire as part of a broader menopausal transition, addressing these compounding symptoms is often the first step toward restored wellbeing.

Reference: Sadahiro R, et al. Black cohosh extracts in women with menopausal symptoms: an updated pairwise meta-analysis. Menopause. 2023;30(7):766-773. PubMed

Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Red Raspberry Leaf has a long tradition of use in women’s herbal medicine for its affinity with female reproductive health. Rich in fragarine and flavonoids, it is used to support hormonal regularity and reduce menstrual discomfort. Reduced menstrual discomfort and improved cycle regularity can indirectly support sexual health by reducing the pain and mood dysregulation that often suppress desire around menstruation.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice Root contains glycyrrhizin and a number of isoflavones that exhibit mild phytoestrogenic activity. It is also a traditional adaptogen used to support adrenal function, relevant because chronic high cortisol from adrenal stress is one of the main drivers of reduced libido in women. By moderating the stress response, Licorice Root may help preserve the hormonal environment in which sexual desire can function. Note: long-term high-dose use of Licorice Root is not appropriate for women with hypertension.

Damiana Leaf (Turnera diffusa)

Damiana is one of the most historically documented aphrodisiac botanicals, used by indigenous peoples of Mexico and Central America for centuries. Modern research supports its traditional reputation. Damiana extracts act through multiple mechanisms, including inhibition of the aromatase enzyme (which increases free testosterone relative to oestrogen), smooth muscle relaxation via the nitric oxide pathway (which may improve blood flow to genital tissue), and anxiolytic activity via apigenin’s action on benzodiazepine receptors. In Germany, Damiana leaf extract is the only approved pharmaceutical therapy for Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD). A multicentre non-interventional study of 35 women with FSIAD taking Damiana extract (675 mg daily) for eight weeks reported a significant increase in the Female Sexual Function Index and a significant decrease in the Female Sexual Distress Scale score.

References: Zhao J, et al. Anti-aromatase activity of the constituents from damiana (Turnera diffusa). J Ethnopharmacol. 2008;120(3):387-393. PubMed | Rotmann J, et al. Damiana for the treatment of female sexual interest/arousal disorder. Planta Medica. 2021. Thieme

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian Root is a widely used herbal sleep aid and anxiolytic. It acts primarily on GABA receptors in the brain, reducing nervous system excitability and promoting relaxation. Its relevance to sexual health is both direct and indirect. Directly, reduced anxiety lowers psychological barriers to arousal. Indirectly, better sleep quality improves hormonal balance and restores the energy that underlies sexual desire.

Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger Root is a thermogenic botanical that stimulates blood circulation and reduces systemic inflammation. Improved circulation supports genital tissue responsiveness, while ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce pelvic discomfort that can accompany sexual dysfunction. Ginger Root also supports digestive health and absorption, which may help other ingredients in the formula work more effectively.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

Red Clover is one of the richest natural sources of isoflavones, a class of phytoestrogens that includes formononetin, biochanin A, daidzein, and genistein. These compounds bind to oestrogen receptors and exert mild oestrogenic effects that may help moderate hot flushes and support vaginal tissue health during the perimenopausal and menopausal transition. Red Clover is used alongside Black Cohosh in Provestra to provide complementary, non-hormonal oestrogen support.

Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Panax ginseng is a well-researched adaptogen with documented effects on both energy and sexual function. Its active compounds, ginsenosides, support nitric oxide synthesis, modulate the HPA axis, and have been shown in clinical trials to improve female sexual arousal and desire. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis found that Panax ginseng produced statistically significant improvements in both arousal and desire in women with sexual dysfunction compared with placebo.

Reference: Sha’ari N, et al. Beneficial effects of natural products on female sexual dysfunction. Phytomedicine. 2021;93:153760. PubMed

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is essential for the maintenance of epithelial and mucosal tissues, including the vaginal lining. Adequate Vitamin A supports the health and integrity of this tissue, which directly influences natural lubrication and comfort during intercourse.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential co-factor in collagen synthesis, supporting the structural integrity of pelvic floor tissues and mucosal surfaces. As an antioxidant, it helps protect reproductive tissues from oxidative stress, which increases with age and is linked to declining sexual function.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E supports hormonal balance by acting as a cofactor in sex hormone synthesis. It also improves cellular membrane integrity, which helps retain moisture in vaginal tissue. In perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, adequate Vitamin E is associated with reduced vaginal dryness.

B-Vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12)

B-Vitamins support energy metabolism, nervous system function, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters involved in mood and desire, including serotonin and dopamine. B6 is particularly relevant to female sexual health because it is involved in the regulation of oestrogen and progesterone, and low B6 is associated with PMS and low mood. B12 supports neurological health and overall energy, two foundations of sustained sexual wellbeing.

Folic Acid

Folic Acid supports the methylation cycle, a fundamental biochemical process underpinning hormonal metabolism and cell replication in reproductive tissue. Adequate folate levels are also associated with reduced risk of cervical dysplasia and support the overall health of reproductive organs.

Biotin

Biotin is a B-vitamin co-factor in fatty acid synthesis and carbohydrate metabolism. It contributes to overall energy production and supports the cellular processes that produce sex hormones from fatty acid precursors.

Zinc

Zinc is critical for testosterone production in both men and women. In women, adequate Zinc supports ovarian function, regulates the menstrual cycle, and is necessary for the conversion of sex hormone precursors into active testosterone, which directly underpins libido. Zinc deficiency is more common than many women realise and is associated with low sex drive, reduced lubrication, and poor reproductive outcomes.

Iron

Iron is the core component of haemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood. Low Iron is the most common nutritional deficiency in women of reproductive age and is a major but often unrecognised cause of fatigue, low mood, and diminished sex drive. Restoring Iron levels to the normal range can meaningfully improve energy and sexual motivation.

Calcium

Calcium is involved in smooth muscle contraction and the release of neurotransmitters. Research has demonstrated that Calcium supplementation can reduce the physical and psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including mood swings, bloating, and low libido that often accompany the luteal phase.

Magnesium

Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. For sexual health specifically, it supports smooth muscle relaxation, helps modulate cortisol, aids sleep quality, and is a cofactor in the synthesis of serotonin and dopamine. Many women, particularly those under chronic stress, are mildly deficient in Magnesium without knowing it.

L-Arginine HCl

The hydrochloride salt form of L-Arginine provides the same nitric oxide precursor function as L-Arginine but with enhanced stability and solubility in a cream base. Topically applied to the clitoris, it supports local nitric oxide synthesis, dilating blood vessels and increasing engorgement, sensitivity, and natural lubrication. See the HerSolution® Gel section for fuller clinical context on L-Arginine’s role in female genital tissue physiology.

Reference: Kim NN, et al. Role of arginase in the male and female sexual arousal response. J Nutr. 2004;134(10 Suppl):2873S-2879S. PubMed

Damiana Leaf (Turnera diffusa)

In topical application, Damiana may contribute to smooth muscle relaxation through the nitric oxide-cGMP pathway, supporting local blood flow and tissue engorgement. Animal studies have demonstrated that Turnera diffusa extract restores sexual behaviour via the nitric oxide pathway, supporting its traditional use as an aphrodisiac. Its aromatase-inhibiting compounds (pinocembrin, acacetin) may also have localised effects on free testosterone signalling. See the Provestra section above for fuller clinical context on Damiana’s evidence base in female sexual function.

Reference: Estrada-Reyes R, et al. Turnera diffusa Wild (Turneraceae) recovers sexual behavior in sexually exhausted males. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009;123(3):423-429. PubMed

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba promotes blood flow and smooth muscle relaxation, two processes directly relevant to physical arousal. Applied topically, it complements the vasodilatory action of L-Arginine to help maximise engorgement and sensitivity in the application area. See the HerSolution® Gel section for full clinical references.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)

Wild Yam contains diosgenin, a steroidal saponin from which progesterone and DHEA can be synthesised in a laboratory setting. Topically, Wild Yam has a long tradition of use for vaginal dryness and discomfort associated with low oestrogen. Its phytoestrogenic activity is mild. It is included in Vigorelle® primarily for its supportive effect on the comfort and resilience of vaginal and clitoral tissue during and after application.

Suma Root (Pfaffia paniculata)

Suma Root, sometimes called South American ginseng, is an adaptogenic plant used traditionally to restore energy and hormonal balance. It contains ecdysteroids and pfaffosides, compounds that may modulate oestrogen and support the body’s response to stress. Its role in Vigorelle® is as a broader systemic support botanical that may help create the internal hormonal environment that makes topical arousal more effective.

Peppermint Leaf (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint Leaf is the natural source of menthol in Vigorelle®. Menthol activates TRPM8 nerve receptors in the skin, creating the characteristic cooling sensation that sharpens tactile sensitivity and awareness in the application area. This heightened sensitivity is integral to Vigorelle®’s immediate arousal effect, typically noticeable within minutes of application.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Motherwort is a traditional cardiovascular and uterine tonic used in European herbal medicine for centuries. It contains leonurine, a compound with mild vasodilatory and uterine-relaxing properties. In an arousal cream context, Motherwort may help support localised blood flow and may reduce pelvic tension that can inhibit relaxation and full arousal, particularly in women who carry anxiety in the body.

Glycerin

Glycerin is a naturally derived humectant that draws moisture from the air and deeper skin layers to the surface, helping keep the application area hydrated and comfortable. It also provides a smooth, slip-like quality that reduces friction during intimacy. Glycerin is water-soluble, non-comedogenic, and compatible with barrier contraceptives when used in formulations like Vigorelle®.

Shea Butter

Shea Butter is a rich natural fat from the fruit of the shea tree. It is one of the most skin-compatible emollients available, containing a high proportion of unsaponifiable fats that penetrate deeply to condition and nourish tissue. For the delicate skin of the external genitalia, Shea Butter provides lasting softness and helps maintain the skin barrier between applications.

Apricot Kernel Oil

Apricot Kernel Oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acids that soften and smooth skin without a heavy or greasy feel. It has excellent spreadability, making it well suited to a cream base that needs to distribute active ingredients evenly across a small application area.

Olive Squalene

Olive Squalene, derived from olive oil, is structurally similar to the skin’s own sebum, making it exceptionally biocompatible. It absorbs rapidly with no greasy residue, supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier, and acts as a carrier for the botanical actives in the formula. See the HerSolution® Gel section for the fuller emollient profile of this ingredient.