Herbal aphrodisiacs are generally tonics, containing an abundance of nutrients to empower, the vital functions of the body and increase longevity. They are of sweet, spicy, or pungent taste; all warming flavors that improve circulation and activate the Qi(life force). It is no wonder then that we look to aphrodisiacs to "heat things up." Many are considered kidney yang tonics, kindling the "life gate fire," the root of reproductive essence. They are often adrenal tonics, strengthening root chakra energy and nourishing the body's reserves. When we ingest a plant in its whole form, we benefit from the above actions as well as benefiting from its vibration. Its life force causes our beings to pulsate with renewed vitality. This is an important component of the magic.
Impotence, or erectile dysfunction, is an increasingly common problem. One out of two men over age thirty-five is having or has had some problem with erectile dysfunction. Often it can be the expression of an emotional problem, such as suppressed relationship issues. In Chinese Medicine, the fire element is associated with joy and the connection between the heart and the mind. We have all experienced how a heavy mind creates a heavy heart and vice versa. A worried mind can put out the fire in one's heart. The heart houses the shen, which roughly translates as spirit. Shen can be observed through the twinkle of the eyes and the spring in ones step. Problems with the fire element can manifest as heart disease--the leading killer of men--circulatory problems, and depression, among many others. Here again, we look first to lifestyle maintenance. Is this man expressing joy, is he living his passion? Is he content with his career and daily life or is his spirit being dampened by a life of stifled creativity or commitment to an unfulfilling path? The same considerations apply to a women experiencing "fridigity." Explore what areas of her life need to be shifted in order to warm up her heart. Often herbs that work on the heart also brighten shen. One example is Mimosa, called "common herb of happiness". When joy is rekindled, passion is once again possible.
Horny Goat Weed
Horny Goat Weed lowers blood pressure by dilating capillaries and blood vessels while slowing the adrenal production that can hinder blood flow to the sex organs. Men achieve better erections due to this effect and it is thought that women benefit from the increased blood flow as well and perhaps from other testosterone-like alkaloids and sterols within the plant. Research has also shown that Horny Goat Weed significantly increases testosterone in mice.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe is a powerful African herb from which drugs such as viagra are derived. It can be used in cases of erectile dysfunction that is inorganic in nature. Yohimbe should be taken on a temporary basis to regain confidence. It causes impressive erections that last for several hours, possibly by its ability to boost adrenaline to nerve endings. Yohimbe can have a mild hallucinogenic effect and cause the skin to be very sensitive to touch. It can stimulate blood pressure, circulation, body temperature and heart rate. It should not be used by people with heart problems, taking pharmaceuticals or in combination with alcohol. It is best taken as a tea with vitamin C added to allay possible side effects of nausea. I have heard several testimonials to the power of Yohimbe. Most are accounts from women describing their husbands' incorrigible primal behavior after imbibing the herb. While many of these women have a teasing tone, none are complaining! Women may use Yohimbe too, to stimulate the senses, and open free flow of communication with one's partner. Often however, the "yang" quality of this herb is too intense for women causing over-stimulation, even nervousness, and agitation. These feelings can quickly take a woman "out of the mood."
Muira Puama
Muira Puama is an aphrodisiac more suitable for women. In its native habitat of Brazil it is known as "potency wood." It has been known to cause sensitivity to the touch, especially in female erogenous zones.
