| Since decreased libido can be (but
isn't always) a side effect of changing hormonal balance, such as at menopause, herbs that
work to restore hormonal balance in women may be a good choice. Andrew Weil, M.D.,
recommends dong quai (the Chinese herb, also known as Chinese
angelica), other Chinese tonic herb formulas, and Siberian ginseng. And Michael Murray,
N.D., says the four most successful herbs for increasing estrogen activity are dong quai,
licorice
root, chasteberry and black cohosh. black cohosh, according to Dr. Reichman, "can
successfully treat several menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, sleep disturbances
and vaginal dryness. When these are improved, sexual…ability and satisfaction may
improve as well." Herbs with estrogen-like properties include the Chinese dong quai,
a Chinese species of angelica that is one of the more commonly recommended tonics (overall
body stimulators and regulators) for flagging libido in women.
Andrew Weil, M.D. and James A. Duke, Ph.D., among
others, praise it. Dong quai is an all-purpose sexual and reproductive tonic for women,
says Duke. Fennel, fenugreek, anise, and parsley also have estrogen-like qualities. Creams
made from wild yam, touted as natural sources of progesterone, seem to improve vaginal
dryness significantly in menopausal women.
The herb damiana has its fans and detractors alike.
It has a certain folkloric reputation as a sex-enhancer, but it's unclear from research
whether its reputation is deserved. However, herbalist Michael A. Weiner, Ph.D., author of
Herbs that Heal, says that it's the safest of herbs reputed to have aphrodisiac
qualities—so you can probably try it relatively risk-free.
Chasteberry, also known as vitex agnus castus (from
which the homeopathic dilution is made), apparently boosts the body's progesterone
production and normalizes reproductive hormones, specifically the estrogen/progesterone
ratio (also implicated in PMS).
If serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, such as
Prozac or Zoloft, are at the root of your diminished sex drive, and it isn't possible for
your doctor to change your prescription or dosage levels, Adriane Fugh-Berman, M.D.,
suggests taking 40 mg. of ginkgo in standardized extracts three times a day to help
counter-act the libido-lowering effects. Saw palmetto, traditionally thought of to
assist men with prostate problems, may also serve to increase circulation to the genital
area.
Other herbal possibilities include muira puama,
sarsaparilla,
fo-ti,
gotu
kola, guarana, and honey. Where mild depression
is an issue, st. John's wort, kava kava or valerian. Yohimbe
and Horny
Goal weed shows some promise; but proceed with caution—some experts endorse it
only reluctantly because of various health and safety concerns.
 |
- Conventional Hormone
Supplements
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- Testosterone or DHEA are
two possible libido-enhancers. Both should be
undertaken with physician supervision. And, estrogen replacement therapy, or ERT,
controversial in some circles, may make sexual activity more comfortable and pleasurable,
but it has no effect on sexual desire-whereas testosterone does. (Surprisingly,
testosterone, famous as a "male" hormone, is present in women as well, to
diminishing degrees over time, and it affects sexual arousal and responsiveness.)
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- Foods and Spices
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- Coffee, cola and
chocolate, all stimulants, have folkloric reputations as libido-enhancers. From the spice
rack come anise, fennel, sage and parsley, also reputed to boost sex drive.
(But don't substitute fennel oil for this, say experts, it's toxic in
relatively small quantities.) There are a number of traditionally-known aphrodisiacs,
masquerading as gourmet treats, from various world cultures-including oysters, asparagus,
etc.-but it's unclear whether they really work.
|
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- Product Recommendations
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changes in hormone levels throughout a woman’s lifetime, women may experience a
variety of symptoms: P.M.S, menstrual irregularities, anxiety, and menopause. Designed
specifically to help maintain good hormonal health.
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-
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Because of the changes in hormone levels throughout a women's lifetime,
women may experience a variety of symptoms such as: P.M.S, menstrual irregularities,
weight gain or loss, anxiety, menopause, and/or the lack of desire or energy for sex.
Herbal remedies for treating various problems associated with the female reproductive
organs have been used for centuries. Yohimbe bark, Licorice root, Damiana, Saw
palmetto, Siberian ginseng, Histidine, Vitamin B-6, and Niacin have worked for years in
treating female hormonal needs. . |
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- Intimate Moisture
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