Protocol · Sexual Health
Sexual Dysfunction General Support Protocol
Maca and L-Arginine are the core of this stack, with 7 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Sexual Dysfunction General Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
9 supplements · 1 graded
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Maca | Amount listed: 1,500–3,000 mg dried root or equivalent extract daily | Traditional adaptogen that may improve libido and sexual function in both men and women
| Grade C for Libido1 study · 20 people | ||
| L-Arginine | Amount listed: 3–5 g daily | Nitric oxide precursor that supports blood flow to sexual organs; may help erectile function | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Panax Ginseng | Amount listed: 900 mg Korean red ginseng 3 times daily | May improve erectile function through nitric oxide pathways; supports energy and libido | Not graded yet | ||
| DHEA | Amount listed: 25–50 mg daily (check levels first) | Hormone precursor that may improve sexual function, especially when levels are low | Not graded yet | ||
| Pycnogenol | Amount listed: 80–120 mg daily | Pine bark extract that supports vascular function; often combined with L-arginine | Not graded yet | ||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 30–50 mg daily | Supports testosterone production; deficiency associated with low libido and erectile dysfunction | Not graded yet | ||
| Tribulus Terrestris | Amount listed: 750–1,500 mg daily | May support libido and sexual function; evidence is mixed | Not graded yet | ||
| Fenugreek | Amount listed: 500–600 mg extract daily | May support testosterone and libido through hormone modulation | Not graded yet | ||
| Ashwagandha | Amount listed: 300–600 mg standardized extract daily | Adaptogen that may improve sexual function by reducing stress and supporting hormones | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
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Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade C
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Sexual dysfunction encompasses a range of issues affecting sexual desire, arousal, and function in both men and women. In men, this often manifests as erectile dysfunction (ED) or reduced libido. In women, it may include low desire, arousal difficulties, or reduced satisfaction. Causes are varied and include hormonal changes, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, medications (especially antidepressants), psychological factors, and relationship issues.
CRITICAL: Sexual dysfunction often has underlying medical causes that need evaluation. Erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease. Rule out diabetes, low testosterone, thyroid disorders, and medication side effects. Treatment depends on the cause - PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis) work well for ED but require evaluation first. Women's sexual dysfunction has different causes and treatments. Psychological factors and relationship dynamics are important. These supplements may help but should complement, not replace, proper medical evaluation.
Maca* is a Peruvian root vegetable traditionally used to enhance libido and sexual function. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest modest benefit for sexual desire in both men and women, without affecting hormones.
L-Arginine* is a precursor to nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and supports blood flow to sexual organs. Meta-analyses support its use for mild-moderate erectile dysfunction, especially combined with Pycnogenol.
Panax Ginseng* (Korean red ginseng) has evidence for improving erectile function. It may work through nitric oxide pathways and has energizing effects.
DHEA* is a hormone precursor that declines with age. When levels are low, supplementation may improve sexual function and desire. Get levels checked first.
Pycnogenol* (pine bark extract) supports vascular health and works synergistically with L-arginine for erectile function.
Zinc* deficiency is associated with low testosterone and sexual dysfunction. Supplementation helps if you're deficient.
Tribulus Terrestris* is traditionally used for libido but evidence is mixed.
Fenugreek* may support testosterone and libido, with some positive clinical trials.
Ashwagandha* is an adaptogen that may help sexual function by reducing stress and cortisol.
Expected timeline: Maca and adaptogens typically need 4-8 weeks of consistent use. L-arginine effects may be noticed within 2-4 weeks. Hormonal support (DHEA, zinc) may take 8-12 weeks.