The loss of sexual appetite has it’s roots in many causes, and modern medicine doesn’t always have the answers to this problem. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help to bring the body into balance gently and effectively, which can give you a basis from which to start when exploring other solutions to the problem such as long-term stress, depression, or other medical issues.
Dong Quai is a Chinese herb that has long been used in China, Japan and Korea to help regulate the female endocrine system, which includes the reproductive organs. Known as the “female ginseng,” it is often used in the treatment of menstrual difficulties such as painful periods and hormonal imbalances. It is also used during menopause and perimenopause to support hormonal function. It has been known to have both stimulating and relaxing effects on the uterus, and is known to be a powerful blood tonic.
Comfrey, a much maligned herb, can also help. It has long been known as a powerful healer, often called “knitbone” but it has mucilage, a thick, glutinous substance that can help moisturize and add flexibility to the vagina.
Fenugreek has been used by nursing mothers for ages due to it’s ability to increase the body’s natural estrogen levels. This may also be helpful in the treatment of a sluggish libido as it can also help lessen vaginal dryness. Fennel is another herb with similar functions and can also be used for the same purpose, as well as dong quay.
Damania has been used in Mexico as a female libido enhancer for years, although experts seem to be split on it’s effectiveness. However, it’s been a persistent folk medicine remedy for a sex stimulant. It appears to work best as a simple remedy, better known as a tea.
Velvet bean, or Mucuna Pruriens has been found to regulate the release of the hormone prolactin, which can contribute to a low sex drive. It also contains l-dopa, which contributes to the production of dopamine in the brain, known as the “pleasure neurotransmitter.”
If you are currently taking an antidepressant and suffer from sexual side-effects, ginkgo biloba A recent clinical trial found that ginkgo biloba improved libido in 91% of women. It increases blood flow to all organs of the body including the brain and the sexual organs, both of which are important to the sex drive.
From the Pacific islands there is kava kava, a root that is known as a relaxing sedative. The active parts of the plant reside in the roots, and can be made into a tea. It is recommended that you drink one cup of the tea no earlier than an hour before sexual activity, or you may be fighting off the desire to sleep instead.
In Africa, natives have long used yohimbe bark as an herbal aphrodisiac, and it’s main function is the flow of blood throughout the body. It can help boost the production of norephinephrine in the body and can also increase the natural adrenaline supply to nerve endings.
Chinese women have been using Chinese foxglove in combination with ginseng, dong quay, and ginkgo blob for anti-aging as well as increasing sexuality. They believe that it helps build blood and strengthen yin chi and draw it into the sexual organs.