Since the beginning of time, humans have been looking for and utilizing natural ways to improve their performance and enjoyment of sex. While prescription drugs are available to help with sexual function, both men and women are looking for a more natural way to solve problems such as lack of desire and stamina, as well as increasing sexual sensations. Thankfully, most drug stores carry possible cures for all of these issues.
The most common herbs used to increase sexual function in both men and women are Ginseng and the aptly named Horney Goat Weed. Ginseng, best taken in pill form, increases blood flow to the genital areas in both men and women, and studies indicate that over fifty percent of participates noted an increase in both excitability and desire. Horney Goat Weed is used to correct erectile dysfunction and is best taken in tea form. While Ginseng should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, it has not been shown to produce any side effects in others. Horney Goat Weed is also safe to take, though commercial development of this herb is not precise. A bad batch will not cause any ill side effects, but it also will not produce the desired effects.
The highly researched herb Kava, while not legal in Canada or France, has been shown to reduce stress and tension when taken regularly. Especially for women, stress is most often the culprit of low sexual desire. L-Arginine is an amino acid that has been touted as the all-natural Viagra substitute for both men and women. It increases blood flow throughout the entire body, especially in the genitals, and allows men to have a longer erection and women to be more sensitive to stimulation. While men take this herb in a pill form, it works best for women in a cream form rub on the genital area.
Popular in Brazil for hundreds of years, Catuaba and Muirapuama bark are used by young and old alike to improve sexual function, desire and sensation. When taken together, these herbs increase energy, confidence, frequency and duration of erections and heighten sensations during sex. If taken daily, full effects will take up to a month to appear, but according to Brazilian locals, it is well worth it. Research has shown that Catuaba and Muirapuama correct erectile dysfunction in 51% of patients and increases sexual desire in 62% of patients. These herbs are best taken in tea form made from small pieces of bark. Brazilians use about two ounces each of Catuaba and Muirapuama and place the bark in a glass of warm water, letting it sit over night. The tea is drunk in the morning, never in the evening as it can make falling asleep difficult. For those who cannot handle the bitter taste of the tea, the herbs are available in pill form, though higher doses are needed for the same effectiveness.
It is important to note that not all manufacturers of herbal supplements use the same extraction or processing methods to produce their products, so research into the best manufacturer is recommended. The FDA does not currently regulate herbs, which is why the benefits of these herbs are not legally allowed to be advertised on the package. Also, while herbs are natural, they still have an effect on the human body and usage of them should be discussed with a primary care physician to look out for any possible side effects. Despite all of this, natural supplements have been proven effective in treating and enhancing sexual pleasure and activity, and are a great option for many.