Herbal Aphrodisiacs for Men

A good natural aphrodisiac formula is composed of herbal extracts from plants that contain unique properties that are combined to create synergistic effects greater than using each specific herb separately. Herbs should be selected for natural hormone enhancement; increasing energy, stamina, and endurance; strengthening the immune system; increasing sperm count; calming the nerves; supporting the prostate; and enhancing blood flow.

Yohimbe (Pausinstalia yohimbe) is probably the strongest herbal aphrodisiac, containing the compound yohimbine: one of the few recognized medical drug aphrodisiacs. It is stimulating, yet lowers blood pressure while dilating the blood vessels of the skin and mucous membranes. This causes blood to rise closer to the surface of the sex organs, increases pelvic circulation, and stimulates arousal.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is known as Peruvian ginseng (but not the same plant family as the Chinese variety) and has been used in herbal medicine for increasing energy, stamina, and endurance in athletes, to treat male impotence and sterility, and is generally used to enhance sexual performance because of these benefits.

The efficacy of yohimbe and maca is enhanced by L-Arginine, which is an amino acid and a natural form of Viagra that functions to specifically enhance blood flow to the genital area, thereby improving functionality and increasing sensitivity while increasing pleasure. L-Arginine is found in high percentages in both yohimbe and maca root extracts.

Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng) strengthens the immune system and decreases fatigue. Steroidal components, called glycosides, which are similar to human sex hormones have been identified by modern research within this ginseng root. It also increases sperm count and contains phytosterols, or plant-based sterols, which support the prostate.

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis), known as Wu Wei Zi in Chinese herbalism, has long been regarded as having aphrodisiac properties. It is an adaptogenic herb, having immune potentiating properties, that tonifies the heart, lungs, and kidneys. In Chinese medicine, it is said to have the power to keep one from losing physical, mental, and spiritual energy.

Damiana (Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca) is tonic for the nervous system, treats loss of libido and impotence, and is used to combat fatigue. Although its primary use is as a mild aphrodisiac, it is also useful as an antidepressant and digestive tonic.

Ashwangandha (Withania somnifera) is the Sanskrit name for ‘winter cherry’ and is also called ‘Indian ginseng’ in other parts of the world. This root nurtures and clarifies the mind while strengthening the nerves. Extensive research has recently documented it to improve vigor and sexual performance in the elderly, and to contain antitumor properties.

Kava Kava (Piper methysticum) is a traditional Polynesian herb from the root of the kava tree (called waka). Herbalists use it for its mild tranquilizing effect to relax the mind and bring clarity to thoughts while soothing the temperament and inducing a mild euphoria. Kava is an approved phytomedicine in Europe used to treat anxiety and can be used in aphrodisiac formulas as a nervine to produce an effect similar to a mild herbal ecstacy.

Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) is used to increase the potency of any herbal formula from the internal heat units and the increased caloric action in the metabolism. It is considered a stimulant, yet it is useful for reducing blood pressure; therefore, it is a beneficial catalyst to enhance the effects of aphrodisiac herbs while balancing blood pressure during increased cardio activity.

When combined in proper percentages to create a balanced synergistic response, these herbs are the cornerstone of male herbal aphrodisiac formulas. Supporting the male system from a purely holistic perspective includes the responsible use of herbs that not only stimulate the appropriate erogenous zones, but provide nutritive support to the overall male system for long term vitality.

Many herbal aphrodisiac formulas are in the form of powdered capsules which take longer to enter the bloodstream, or alcohol tinctures which work faster but can sting if taken sublingually (under the tongue) without being added to water. A more effective and pleasant way of enjoying herbal aphrodisiacs is to take a liquid form that is in glycerin rather than grain alcohol. This makes the extract sweet tasting, more pleasant to take sublingually for faster results, and provides a non-alcohol alternative for anyone with concerns about the consumption of alcohol products.