Evaluating Effects of Topical L-citrulline and L-arginine Gel on Clitoral Blood Flow
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: The clitoris is a vital organ for female sexual arousal, and adequate blood flow is essential for its function. L-citrulline, a precursor to L-arginine, boosts nitric oxide (NO) production, potentially enhancing blood flow. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a topical gel containing L-citrulline and L-arginine on clitoral blood flow in healthy women. Methods: Five female volunteers aged 24-32 participated in this pilot study. The topical gel was applied externally to the vulva. Doppler ultrasound was used to measure clitoral length, clitoral volume, peak systolic velocity (PSV), resistive index (RI), and pulsatility index (PI) before and after gel application. Results: Significant increases were observed in clitoral length (20 mm-24 mm, P < .001), volume (0.13 mm³-0.3 mm³, P = .002), and PSV (7.1 cm/s-16.7 cm/s, P = .004) at five minutes post-application. RI and PI decreased from 0.9 to 0.6 ( P < .001) and from 2.8 to 1.3 ( P = .003), respectively. Conclusion: Topical L-citrulline and L-arginine gel significantly improves clitoral blood flow, suggesting its potential as a non-invasive treatment for enhancing sexual function in healthy women. Further research is required to evaluate how clinicians can use these findings to counsel patients about using gels to increase clitoral blood flow.
Source: Journal of Psychosexual Health
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414842857