Low libido or lack of sex drive is the most common sexual dysfunction. This sexual dysfunction can drain intimacy from the relationship. Lack of libido or low libido is most common in women but quite rare in men. Men with low sex drive can achieve erections but have very less desire for sex. But men with erectile dysfunction usually have a normal sex drive.

Causes of low libido in men:

The causes for low libido or low sex drive may be physiological or psychological. Physical causes alcoholism Drug abuse like addiction to cocaine, heroin, marijuana; Anaemia, Obesity, few medications prescribed for prostate problems, hypertension and depression low level of testosterone hormones; Major diseases like diabetes, Parkinson's disease, endocrine or neurological disorders, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis etc male andropause not enough sleep working long hours chronic pain.

Psychological causes:

Stress unresolved conflicts in the relationship a desire to control or punish spouse a way to have power over spouse sexual conflict or confusion anger past sexual abuse depression family worries infidelity

Causes described in Ayurveda for low Libido or low sex drive:

Having sex by compulsions with a person whom you do not like. Anxiety and stress. Eating spicy, salty and hot food increase pitta and destroys SHUKRA (SEMEN). Overindulgence in sexual activities leads to SHUKRA KSHAYA (decrease in quantity of semen). If Vajikara dravyas (Libido enhancers) are not consumed by such persons regularly, it may lead to CLIBYA (low libido and impotence). By controlling sexual urges for longer duration leads to VEERYAAVARODHA (Obstruction of semen) and this leads to DECREASED LIBIDO. Some acquire the low sex drive by birth.

Remedies for low libido in men:

The underlying cause must be evaluated and following remedial measures should be taken Withdrawing from alcohol and drug addiction. Reducing body weight. Correcting anaemia. Getting sufficient sleep. Reducing stress levels with relaxation techniques.  Support from spouse or partner.

Ayurveda treatment for low sex drive:

The treatment adopted in ayurveda to increase libido, quality and quantity of semen, duration of erection and to treat infertility effectively is known as VAAJIKARANA As this therapy increases the strength of a man to perform sexual act, like a horse, it is called 'Vaajikarana'. ( 'Vaaji'=Horse.)

Vaajikaranamanvicchet purusho nityamatmawan
Thadaayattou hi dharmarthou preetishcha yasha yevacha
Putrasyaayatanam hyetad gunashchaite sutashrayaha 

This means "The person who takes virility therapy after rejuvenation therapy gets offspring. Through these offspring he gains the happiness." VAAJIKARANA THERAPY LEADS TO: Happiness. Good strength. Potency to produce offspring. Increased span of erection. Ayurveda has laid much importance on a male's potency. Charaka states the use of aphrodisiacs as mentioned in ayurvedic therapies enhances one's potence by leaps and bounds. These medicines are said to give one the strength and potency of a horse. These treatments are especially useful for aged people. They are said to increase libido, duration of hard erection ,sperm count and sperm motility.