Natural aphrodisiacs
In the general article on aphrodisiacs we talked about these substances with the emphasis on their "morality" and effectiveness. We have therefore come to the conclusion that, a bit like homeopathic remedies, aphrodisiac foods and preparations work especially when those who consume them are convinced of their effectiveness (placebo effect).
If all these factors of psychic origin are missing, many products with a presumed aphrodisiac effect inexorably lose their effectiveness. After all, if we think about it, sexual desire is also deeply linked to psychic, as well as physiological, factors.
In this article we will devote our attention to herbal preparations, while foods with aphrodisiac properties will be treated on a separate page.
The herbal remedies recommended in the presence of decreased sexual desire are numerous. Some of these are based on herbs and plants rich in substances whose properties are not fully understood, but which could actually have an important aphrodisiac action. Others derive from popular tradition, which has always been careful to study the stimulating virtues of plants and herbs.
Yohimba
Pausinystalia yohimbe is a tree that grows in the western regions of the African continent (Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo and Gabon). A powerful alkaloid called Yohimbine is made from the bark of this tree.
Yohimbine has the ability to release and dilate the vessels of the penis, increasing the flow of blood and, consequently, the consistency and duration of the erection (inhibitory action on the α-2 receptors that stimulate the contraction of vascular smooth muscle) . This substance is also known for its alleged slimming effects linked to the stimulation of the adrenergic system (increased secretion of catecholamines).
Due to its side effects, this drug is banned in some countries. This alkaloid can in fact cause severe migraines, insomnia and arterial hypertension.
Dosage: 5 to 6mg to be taken three times a day for eight weeks. When it comes to herbal preparations, the levels of intake still depend on the product which can be more or less concentrated and purified.
Muira Pauma
Muira Pauma is a small tree that grows wild in Brazil along the banks of the Amazon River. Interesting alkaloids are obtained from the roots and the stem which are able, also in this case, to cure sexual dysfunctions in both men and women. In fact, these substances stimulate peripheral vasodilation also thanks to the increased production of nitric oxide.
Investigations on the possible effects of this plant have shown that, in high doses, the extracts of Muira Puama alter the coordination of movements due to the increase in acetylcholine in the muscle resulting from the massive inhibition of cholinesterase (an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter).
Ginkgo bilboa
Ginkgo bilboa is a typical plant of Chinese folk medicine but also well known in Western countries.
Its aphrodisiac properties are linked to the content in terpenlactones and ginko-flavone glycosides. Both of these classes of substances with a not very reassuring name are actually very useful in regulating circulatory function. Their vasodilatory actions are used not only to increase sexual desire, but also for their adjuvant effect in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Ginkgo extracts should not be used in combination with antiplatelet agents, such as heparin and aspirin, and with products that increase gastric acidity, such as garlic and willow.
Maca
Also in this case there are several studies that testify to the aphrodisiac properties of Maca-based preparations. Alongside these there are others that, as often happens, regularly deny them, highlighting the absence of the alleged beneficial effects. According to these studies, Maca extracts are unable to keep their promises and do not appreciably increase sexual desires and hormone levels.
Damiana
Damiana is a plant native to Mexico and the southern United States. The extracts of this plant have been widely used by Mexicans as a powerful aphrodisiac useful for both men and women.
Unfortunately, even in this case there is a lack of clear scientific evidence on the real properties of the plant. A study suggests that some substances present in Damiana could have progesterone-like effects and could therefore contribute to regulating the menstrual cycle and increasing libido in women.
L-Arginine
L-Arginine is an amino acid that regulates numerous bodily functions. Among all these functions, arginine also intervenes in the synthesis of nitric oxide, a substance that induces vasodilation by decreasing blood pressure and increasing the blood supply to the tissues. This effect could somehow contribute to increased sexual desire and performance by increasing the blood supply to the genitals.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is a "herb that has been used for many centuries in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine. Several researches attribute to this plant strong aphrodisiac properties capable of increasing male and female fertility by compensating for any hormonal deficiencies. Obviously, also in this case, can not miss studies that prove the exact opposite (see: tribulus terrestris)
At this point, three other plants would remain to be examined (Tongkat Ali or Eurycoma longifolia; Fo-Ti or Polygonum multiflorum; epimedium or Epidmedium Sagittatum) but we prefer to stop here and conclude with a brief reflection.
At the end of this article, even the most distracted of readers probably understood that the effectiveness of natural aphrodisiacs derives mostly from local traditions and from a few isolated studies, often devoid of any scientific basis (without counting the possible side effects and interactions with other drugs or diseases).
If the lack of desire is important, it is advisable to contact a specialist doctor who will try to solve the problem by collaborating with other important figures, such as the psychologist and the herbalist himself.
Finally, we emphasize the importance of physical activity and a healthy diet. The pleasure of moving and being with others, associated with the aesthetic and functional improvement of one's body, is in fact able to give safety and self-esteem while also improving sexual desire and performance.
