About Herbal Aphrodisiacs

Daily stress and busy schedules are only a few of the things that contribute to a loss of interest in sex for women. Additionally, as men get older, conditions such as erectile dysfunction become more common. Herbal aphrodisiacs offer natural options to bring the body back into balance and the fire back into the bedroom.

Types

Herbal aphrodisiacs, just like most herbs, are available in capsule form as well as tinctures. Although generally favored by consumers, herbs in a capsule form are often not as concentrated and can lose their potency over time. Dr. Andrew Weil, author of "Natural Health, Natural Medicine," recommends taking herbs in the form of a glycerin-based tincture as opposed to an alcohol-based tincture which may not be appropriate for everyone.

Herbs for Men

Perhaps the most well-known herbal aphrodisiac for men is Chinese ginseng. Long treasured in the East, taking ginseng on a regular basis may improve overall energy levels and assist in sexual stimulation of males.

Yohimbe is another popular and effective herbal aphrodisiac for men. According to the website Organic Herbal Aphrodisiacs, yohimbe works for men by increasing circulation to the pelvic area and stimulating arousal. They recommend taking L-arginine in combination with yohimbe to further enhance the effects.

Herbs for Women

One of the more popular herbal aphrodisiacs for women is called damiana. Native to South America, damiana is useful in boosting a low libido. Other than increasing sexual desire, damiana may encourage more intense orgasms in women.

Ashwagandha is another useful herb for supporting sexual interest and function in women. A popular Ayurvedic herb from India, ashwagandha is also useful as an herbal aphrodisiac for men. Ashwagandha is indicated in the ancient Kama Sutra as being intended to heighten sexual experiences between men and women.

Instructions

According to Dr. Ray Sahelian, author of "Natural Sex Boosters," herbal aphrodisiacs should be taken first thing in the morning before breakfast so that the body may absorb them more efficiently. Sahelian advises testing each herb completely on its own before attempting to combine several herbal aphrodisiacs at once. To increase the effectiveness of the herbs, take the chosen herb for two days then discontinue for two days. Sahelian says that when herbal aphrodisiacs are not taken every day, they work more effectively. In addition, because some herbs create a delayed response, you are likely to continue experiencing the benefits of the herb even on the off days.

What to Expect

Sahelian claims that the use of herbal aphrodisiacs may be just as effective as taking a prescription medication such as Viagra, which is intended to improve erectile function. He explains that herbal aphrodisiacs surpass prescription medications as they are also able to strengthen the libido, increase sensation and also increase the power of orgasms in addition to supporting erectile function. While the effects of yohimbe may come within an hour or so, Sahelian says that most herbal aphrodisiacs may not demonstrate a noticeable difference until several days or even a week has passed.

Cautions

Because herbal supplements can interact negatively with other medications and affect some health conditions, consult a physician before using. Also, some medical conditions can contribute to low libido and other sexual problems. See a physician to rule out any underlying illnesses or conditions.