Herbal Aphrodisiacs
Herbal aphrodisiacs are as varied and numerous as the plants themselves. Some herbs give the body an immediate “boost” of libido and work directly on the reproductive system. Other herbs are more nutritive; they work on a long-term basis to rejuvenate the reproductive system and the adrenals to build lasting energy and stamina. There are so many herbs that classify as aphrodisiacs, we can’t cover them all in one article! So this will be a first installment.
In our society, most cases of low libido are linked to stress, anxiety, and general depletion. Therefore, the best herbs for boosting libido are herbs that soothe, moisturize, and replenish the nervous system and the reproductive tissues at a deep level.
Damiana
Turnera diffusa
Damiana is an herb native to the southern United States, Mexico, and parts of South and Central America. It has long been known to possess aphrodisiacal and stimulant properties. Damiana is helpful for depression and anxiety, especially in matters of sexuality. It tones the central nervous system, uplifting confidence and helping to aid both in relaxation and stimulation.
Horny Goat Weed
Epimedium grandiflorum
Epimedium is native to China. Its catchy name supposedly derives from Chinese goat herders noticing an increase in sexual activity in goats who grazed on the plant. Epimedium supports the cardiovascular system and promotes strong circulation and blood flow. It is especially known to support stamina and performance in men.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps sinensis; militaris
Cordyceps is a type of fungi that promotes energy, adrenal rejuvenation, healthy libido, immunity, and many other health benefits besides. Cordyceps is another herb said to be discovered by farmers observing animals’ increased sexuality after grazing. It is a general tonic, adaptogen and “anti-aging” medicine known to boost energy levels and enhance stamina.
Maca
Lepidium meyenii
Maca is native to the high altitudes of South America and has long been used there as a general health tonic, especially in the Peruvian Andes. Maca is what is known as an adaptogen, which means that it helps the body respond to stress in a healthy way. Maca is a mood booster, nervous system toner, and aphrodisiac, helping to support normal energy, endurance, and a healthy libido. Maca powder can be added to smoothies and shakes for a slightly sweet, earthy herbal addition to your daily regimen.
Oats
Avena sativa
Oatstraw or Milky Oat Tops are wonderful for longer-term nervous system rejuvenation and tissue moisturization. For low libido, fatigue, and mood problems, Oats can work wonders when taken regularly. Oats are rich in protein, potassium, magnesium, and trace minerals that relax and nourish the tissues of the body.
Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera
In Sanskrit, Ashwagandha means “smells like a horse”. This name comes partially from its strong smell and also from Ashwagandha’s ability to impart the sexual vitality of a horse. Ashwagandha is a classic Ayurvedic adaptogen, rebuilding the adrenal reserves for enhanced energy, stamina, sounder sleep, and a healthier response to stress. Like Maca and other adaptogens, Ashwagandha is best used over the long term for deep healing.
Shatavari
Asparagus racemosa
Shatavari is also known as “she who possesses one hundred husbands”, which gives you some idea of its revitalizing properties. Shatavari is a time-honored Ayurvedic herb for toning and nourishing the reproductive systems in both men and women. It is soothing to dry, inflamed tissues and has an especially pronounced effect on revitalizing the reproductive tissues.
For More Information:
Smile Herb Blogs: Sexual Health
Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs
Turnera diffusa Wild (Turneraceae) recovers sexual behavior in sexually exhausted males
Damiana for Libido & Hormonal Health
Erectogenic and Neurotrophic Effects of Icariin, a Purified Extract of Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium spp.) In Vitro and In Vivo
Cordyceps spp.: A Review on Its Immune-Stimulatory and Other Biological Potentials
A Double‐Blind, Randomized, Pilot Dose‐Finding Study of Maca Root (L. Meyenii) for the Management of SSRI‐Induced Sexual Dysfunction
Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on well‐being and sexual performance in adult males: A randomized controlled trial
Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract for Improvement of Sexual Health in Healthy Women: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): A herbal boon to women reproductive health
and an overview of current research
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