L-Arginine is a precursor of nitric oxide (NO) in the human body. In the 1990s, scientists discovered that not only is NO an essential compound that helps blood circulation, but it is important to normal sexual function in both men and women. Without arginine there would be no NO, and without NO men would not be able to have erections.

How L-Arginine works

Insufficient blood flow is a major cause of incomplete erection in men. L-Arginine has been shown to improve blood flow to the genital area by dilating blood vessels and helping the penis to enlarge to its full capacity, thus increasing the size, hardness and frequency of erections.

L-Arginine has a similar effect in women

Higher blood flow makes clitoral and vaginal tissues more sensitive and responsive to sexual stimulation, and helps increase the possibility of reaching orgasm. Although there haven't been nearly as many studies done on arginine supplementation in women as in men, one study found that postmenopausal women who took a supplement including L-arginine experienced heightened sexual response.

Another study involving 77 women of all ages found that after four weeks, 73.5% of the women who took a supplement including L-arginine experienced greater sexual satisfaction, including heightened desire and clitoral sensation, frequency of intercourse and orgasm, and less vaginal dryness.

Stronger libido - greater endurance

Both men and women report that L-arginine seems to increase their libido or desire for sex, and some also report that L-arginine gives them greater endurance. Reports also suggest that L-arginine supplements can improve fertility in men who have low sperm counts or poor sperm motility (activity.

L-arginine users say they can achieve a prosexual effect by taking it 45 minutes before sex. There are few reported side effects. The most notable are:

People with herpes - L-arginine may increase the severity of attacks, but some reports indicate that it may also enhance your immune function enough so you are less likely to get herpes attacks.

L-arginine is an excellent supplement for anyone wanting to increase his or her sexual arousal, improve performance and overall health. The huge advantage this natural and safe supplement has over Viagra is that men and women can take it, it's considerably less expensive.