APHRODISIACS
What is an aphrodisiac?
The American Heritage College Dictionary defines aphrodisiac as “arouser or intensifier of sexual desire…something such as a drug or food, having such an effect”. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “an aphrodisiac is a food, drink, drug, scent, or device that can arouse or increase sexual desire or libido”.
The term “Aphrodisiac” was adopted after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of sexual love and beauty, who under Greek myths, was born from the sea. Therefore, many types of seafood were some of the firsts to acquire this reputation.
Samples of aphrodisiacs
In the past, (and even nowadays for some) procreation was an important moral and religious issue, hence aphrodisiacs were sought to insure both male and female potency. Some of the most popular aphrodisiac in the ancient history include Anise, basil, carrot, salvia, gladiolus root, orchid bulbs, pistachio nuts, rocket (arugula), sage, sea fennel, turnips, skink flesh (a type of lizard) and river snails. In Mexico and Central America, the Aztecs referred to chocolate “nourishment of the Gods”. For many years and in many cultures chocolate was considered a popular aphrodisiac, it is after its easy access that its popularity as a sexual desire enhancer decreased.
Nowadays, drugs like Viagra and many other drugs used to enhance sexual performance are considered aphrodisiacs. However, many now understand, the desired balance of sexual performance as well as fertility can be achieved by taking care of our bodies and looking into nature. More and more new aphrodisiac herbs and natural supplements are introduced to our lives. As they are still new to us, it is always important to understand where they come from, and how they work in our bodies.
Natural Aphrodisiacs
Peruvian Maca Root
Peruvian Maca, Maca is a root that grows in the high mountains of Peru. Rich in nutritional content (potassium, and higher levels of calcium than in milk), maca is a natural hormonal balancer which provides great health benefits for both, men and women.
Maca has been used medicinally for centuries to enhance fertility in humans and animals. Soon after the Spanish Conquest in South America, the Spaniards, found that their livestock were reproducing poorly in the highlands. The local Indians recommended feeding the animals with Maca, and the results were so remarkable that the Spanish chroniclers wrote in-depth reports about Maca.
Due to its high nutritional value, maca is not only popular as a sexual libido enhancer and menopause symptoms savior, but it also known to greatly affect energy, stamina, depression, memory, and more.
As Beth M. Ley, Ph.D. states on her book Maca Adaptogen & Hormonal Regulator: “Some researchers note than when the body is well-nourished and balanced (in homeostasis), overall health improves, libido rises and depression abates.”
Maca has been used medicinally for centuries to enhance fertility in humans and animals. Soon after the Spanish Conquest in South America, the Spaniards found that their livestock were reproducing poorly in the highlands. The local Indians recommended feeding the animals with Maca, and the results were so remarkable that the Spanish chroniclers wrote in-depth reports about Maca.
Nowadays, in vivo laboratory research has demonstrated dramatic positive effects on sexual potency. Preliminary in vivo experiments also demonstrated promising results for energy, stamina and depression. Tests have demonstrated that effects are sometimes seen in as little as 6-8 hours after initial dose. An acute oral toxicity limit study also demonstrated the extract to be very safe.
Vuka-Vuka
This is an ancient African natural herbal remedy.
It is claimed to “combine the powers of traditional African healing, wisdom, unique herbs & natural ingredients”. Vuka Vuka seems to be a centuries old traditional African remedy used to treat impotence and increase vitality and used as natural sexuality treatment.
Unfortunately tTere is few research on this product. Since it is a mixture of herbs and ingredients it is hard to research on the components of this aphrodisiac.
Damiana Leaf
This herb is also considered by many to be an aphrodisiac. Between its properties, it is said to increase the sperm count in men and to strengthen the egg in women. Damiana Leaf helps to restore the natural sexual capacities and functions, especially for the exhausted body. Damiana is also said to work as a stimulating nerve tonic used for debility, depression, and lethargy. Used for female disorders as it helps to balance female hormones. Damiana Leaf may be used to alleviate hot flashes in menopausal women and as a mild tonic laxative for children.
Researching Aphrodisiacs
When selecting an aphrodisiac (or sexual enhancer) it is important to study the components, effects, side effects, as well as the way they work in your body. Most websites of manufacturers will provide you with the information. If you suffer from any condition, or are taking any medication it is important you ask about any contraindications. Nature provides us with a great variety of foods that can nourish our bodies and help us live a more fulfilling live, but it is important to recognize that not all bodies react the same to all foods and therefore be precocious about any substance we ingest.