In my clinic, I see quite a large number of people (women especially) who complain of low libido. So, I thought I’d dedicate a blog to it!
Also known as “hypoactive sexual desire disorder”, low libido can have a significant impact on a person’s well-being, and it’s good to know there are several natural foods which are known to boost your desire for some sexy time!
Here are some of my libido boosting herbs and nutrients:
- Maca Powder – Maca can actually be traced back to the Incan empire, where warriors used it before entering into battle. However, after battle, they were no longer allowed to consume Maca in order to protect the women from their powerful libidos! More recently, research has shown that Maca powder elevates sperm count, mood, libido in women, and acts to boost overall energy. A word of warning… it can be too stimulating for some, so start with small amounts.
- Pumpkin Seeds – These little seeds contain fairly good levels of Zinc, which is crucial for testosterone production. Not only this, a deficiency of zinc has been shown to reduce sex drive in both women and men (for this reason, Oysters are also great!)
- Goji Berries – In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Goji berries (or Wolf berries) are known as a strong sexual tonic due to their testosterone elevating effects in both men and women. In addition to this, Goji berries improve overall stamina, mood and well-being.
- Avocados – Helps to balance female hormones and reproductive organs. Avocados are also an outstanding source of therapeutic fats (the basis for all our hormones), and the Aztecs once called the fruit ‘ahuacati’… meaning ‘testicles’ (referring to the fruit’s appearance when hanging from a tree)! For more info on the why avo’s are so great, click here.
- Pomegranate – Now, this is a fruit that just LOOKS sexy! The main reason pomegranate is great for libido is that it helps the body to produce nitric oxide (NO) which dilates blood vessels and increase to blood flow to our nether regions! For similar NO-inducing reasons, Beetroot is also effective.
- Eggs – The ultimate food for women’s hormones! It contains therapeutic fats and easily-digestible protein, and a must for anyone having difficulty with fertility.
- Panax Ginseng – Throughout the world, Ginseng is commonly used for the treatment of sexual dysfunction. Ginseng plants are often called Adaptogens, which means they help the body deal with physical, emotional, mental and environmental stresses. In addition to this, Ginseng helps to boost stamina and physical performance. It’s powerful stuff, so make sure you take it under the guidance of a qualified Herbalist or Naturopath.
- Wild caught Salmon – Full of hormone-supporting favourable fats, protein, B12 and even Iron… Salmon is really just a beautiful all-rounder for hormonal support.
- Saffron – A surprising one! Often dubbed “the world’s most expensive aphrodisiac”, researchers have found that saffron lives up to its reputation of improving sexual performance.
- Cocoa – Evidence suggests that women who enjoy a piece of dark chocolate every day have a more active sex life than those who don’t! The cocoa contains bioflavonoids, which support blood vessel integrity, help to prevent a decline in estrogen (which plays a role in decreased libido), and increases the presence of dopamine, one of the brain’s feel-good chemicals.
A Final Note
A study published in Human Reproduction journal confirmed that leading up to and during ovulation, women naturally get a boost in libido. This is believed to be nature’s way of nudging us towards procreation. Clever!
A woman’s libido varies according to a range of other factors… such as age, stress levels, adrenal fatigue/hormonal health, relationship status, weight, mood, and energy levels. For some people, certain medications can also have quite an impact on libido, namely the pill and anti-depressants, so keep this in mind.
Until next time, Stacey.
