• Gingko biloba aids circulation, which benefits both cognition and libido.Gingko image by Angelika Bentin from Fotolia.com
  
  Evaluating the cause for low female sex drive is complex. Hormone levels can change because of menopause or menstruation. Depression, anxiety, worry and stress about unalterable life circumstances can lower libido, says MayoClinic.com, as can relationship issues. Poor circulation can also be a factor. Alcohol and some prescription medications adversely affect sex drive. There are herbs that can address conditions that might cause low sex drive, but these are not scientifically proved or approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
  
  

Damiana

• Damiana is native to Mexico, Central America and nearby regions. Its scientific name is Turnera diffusa. The leaves of this small, fragrant shrub are harvested for medicinal use while the plant is flowering. They have long been used by indigenous groups as an aphrodisiac, antidepressant and to treat anxiety and many other disorders, says "Prescription for Herbal Healing" by Phyllis A. Balch. Additionally, Dr. Andrew Weil suggests use of damiana on the basis of its traditional role as a female aphrodisiac in Mexico.
  
  

Black Cohosh

• Black cohosh is a member of the buttercup family and has the scientific name Actaea racemosa. Native Americans used the roots and rhizomes of this plant to treat menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Black cohosh contains glycosides, anti-inflammatory compounds and possibly phytoestrogens. If libido is decreased because of menopausal factors, black cohosh might help.
  
  

Gingko biloba

• Gingko biloba is a tree native to China. Traditional Chinese herbal preparations have contained gingko biloba leaves for millennia. The fan-shaped leaves contain flavonoids and terpenoids that are thought to be the active agents. Flavonoids are antioxidants that protect nerves, the heart, blood vessels and eyes from free-radical damage. Terpenoids dilate blood vessels and reduce blood platelet stickiness, thereby improving blood flow and circulation, says MayoClinic.com, which can be helpful in raising libido.
  
  

Passionflower

• A native of North America, Passiflora incarnata has an ornate flower. The stems, leaves and flowers of this vine are used medicinally to treat anxiety and insomnia, says "Prescription for Herbal Healing." Herbalists often combine passionflower with other calming herbs, such as lemon balm and valerian. The calming effect of passionflower can help sex drive if anxiety or stress are squashing libido. In addition, passionflower also contains the chemical compound chrysin, which has a beneficial effect on sex hormones.
  
  

Catuaba

• Two Brazilian trees, Erythroxylum catuaba and Trichilia catigua, are the sources of the herbal remedy catuaba. Brazilian herbalists traditionally use a decoction of catuaba bark as an aphrodisiac for both women and men. The herb is said to enhance sexual drive and increase libido. Another traditional use for catuaba is as a treatment for enlarged prostrate, according to "Prescription for Herbal Healing."