Below is a table listing various herbal medications reported as potential aphrodisiacs, along with their active constituents and claims for sexual enhancement.
Epimedium extract (or Horny goat weed) can improve sexual libido by returning low levels of testosterone and thyroid hormone to their proper level.
Ginseng
Ginseng is an herb widely recognized to stimulate both physical and mental alertness. Additionally, research has indicated its benefits in increasing energy levels, decreasing blood sugar, and improving immunity function. Further investigation should be performed to ascertain its efficacy as a sex enhancer and treatment of erectile dysfunction; moreover, it may cause jitters and interact with certain medications.
Ginsenosides are the main saponin components responsible for ginseng's pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory activity, immunomodulation, and synergism with chemical therapeutic agents. Nonsaponin constituents such as essential oils, polyacetylenic alcohols, peptides, and polysaccharides have also been studied and investigated for potential biological activities.
Long-term consumption of this herb may lead to side effects including headaches, high blood pressure, pancreatic issues, and diarrhea, along with estrogen-like actions on the uterus that cause menstrual irregularities or trigger breast cancer in predisposed individuals. Furthermore, Coumadin (warfarin) medication could become less effective if it interferes. Therefore it would be advisable not to take this herb if you suffer from an autoimmune disorder or are planning surgery as it could impair blood clotting abilities and thus affect healing capabilities.
Maca
Maca has long been associated with increasing sexual desire. An adaptogen plant, it helps the body adapt to stressors while simultaneously increasing energy and stamina levels.
Animal and human studies suggest that maca may improve both men and women's libido and sexual function; however, more research needs to be completed in this area.
One study demonstrated that maca's effects on herbal medicine for male sexual desire increased after 12 weeks of taking either a placebo or maca (1500 mg of gelatinized maca root extract daily), without altering testosterone levels.
One research study demonstrated that maca increased sperm count, motility, semen volume and normal sperm morphology over a 12-week period among healthy male participants - though its hormone effects remained unaffected.
Maca can have a hormonal impact, so those suffering from hormone-sensitive conditions such as uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts should refrain from taking it. Furthermore, when purchasing maca products it's essential that you purchase from a high-quality provider who does not use herbicides and pesticides in their farming techniques.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba can improve male and female libido by improving blood flow and stimulating nitric oxide systems. Furthermore, ginkgo has anxiolytic and antidepressant properties which may improve mood by increasing serotonin and dopamine production, helping memory by increasing oxygen to the brain, as well as increasing alertness and concentration levels.
Reduce inflammation to help treat chronic illnesses like Raynaud's peripheral arterial disease and inflammatory bowel conditions, increase circulation by widening blood vessels, and improving transport of oxygen to heart, lungs, and brain, potentially alleviating intermittent claudication or coronary artery disease symptoms.
Gingko acts as an antioxidant, protecting nerve cells from oxidative damage that could hinder their proper functioning and thus ensuring healthy sexual function. Gingko's protective effects are vitally important as nerves play a central role in transmitting crucial messages between nerve cells and the penis that induce erections. Gingko can also promote hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp; additionally, it may enhance vision by protecting the retina from harm by increasing circulation to the eyes while improving blood flow; it has even been found to reduce PMS symptoms by relieving anxiety while decreasing production of cortisol which suppressed libido.
Avocados
Avocados have long been recognized for their aphrodisiacal effects due to the healthy fats they contain; these provide essential building blocks for sexual hormones. Furthermore, these healthy fats improve blood flow throughout the body - including to the genital area - increasing sensitivity and arousal. In addition, avocados contain plant sterols that may help balance estrogen and progesterone levels for premenopausal women or those experiencing symptoms of menopause.
Avocados provide healthy fats as well as essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall body wellness. Avocados contain phytochemicals called lutein and zeaxanthin that protect eyes from age-related macular degeneration as well as potassium which is known for helping control blood pressure. Furthermore, one cup of avocado slices provides about 118 micrograms of folate which accounts for almost one-third of what adults need daily!
Diets that incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can play an essential role in overall health. Their antioxidants and nutrients may even improve sexual performance for men. A balanced diet coupled with regular exercise are key components to leading a healthier lifestyle.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate (Punica granatum), an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich superfood, provides nutrients to combat many of the root causes of men's sexual issues--from low testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction to poor sperm quality. Studies indicate that both women and men can increase their libido with daily glasses of pomegranate juice or supplementation.
Pomegranate's natural aphrodisiac properties stem from its phytochemicals that stimulate blood flow and relax muscles in the penis. Nitrates convert to nitric oxide which opens blood vessels near sexual organs while simultaneously contracting muscle tissues nearby - ultimately helping create an erection.
Conclusion
One study concluded that drinking 100% pomegranate juice such as POM Wonderful can improve erectile function for those suffering from ED while helping lower their blood pressure. Pomegranate may provide its aphrodisiac effects due to an alkaloid called Yohimbe found within it which blocks alpha-2 adrenergic activity while increasing vasodilation; additionally it acts as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, increasing serotonin.
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