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Women's HealthReproductive HealthSexual health workshop- part two
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Sexual health workshop- part two

by Dr Sarah Brewer
continued from page 1
  • Korean and Siberian ginseng are not closely related botanically, but have similar effects, helping you adapt physical or emotional stress and fatigue. Ginseng is beneficial for those whose low sex drive is linked to stress, over-work, fatigue, convalescence or hormone imbalances. It is also helpful for women whose low libido is related to menopausal symptoms.

  • St John's Wort can significantly boost sex drive in those who are depressed or physically exhausted or for those whose loss of sex drive is linked to anxiety, stress, irritability or low mood.

  • Ginkgo biloba extracts help to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow around the body, including the reproductive organs. Research involving males with erectile dysfunction showed a beneficial effect after six to eight weeks treatment, and after six months half of patients had regained full potency. Ginkgo is also helpful for those whose low sex drive is linked to mental fatigue, poor memory and stress during times of intensive study.

    Prosexual supplements may:

  • have a direct stimulant effect on the genitals (Damiana, Muira puama)
  • improve blood circulation to the reproductive organs (ginkgo)
  • reduce the effects of stress, which has a powerful libido dampening action in the body (ginseng)
  • affect brain chemicals (catuaba, Muira puama, St John's Wort)

    If you are on prescribed medication, seek advice from a herbalist or pharmacist before taking any herbal supplements. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take herbal supplements without seeking specialist advice.

    DIY tips

    Use relaxation techniques such as meditation, massage, or having a warm aromatherapy bath by candlelight.

    Essential oils of geranium, rose, jasmine and ylang-ylang are among the most powerful aromatic aphrodisiacs, along with those that have a spicy aroma such as black pepper, cardamom and ginger. Try blending two or three together, and sprinkle them on a handkerchief tucked under your pillow. Always dilute according to instructions before bringing oils into contact with skin. Seek medical advice before using essential oils when pregnant.

    When to seek help

    If there is no significant improvement in your sex drive after following a prosexual programme for 12 weeks, consult your doctor. Between 3 per cent and 8 per cent of people with loss of sex drive have raised levels of the hormone, prolactin, which needs investigation and treatment.

    If you want to find out what really turns you turn, try Part One of the Sexual Health workshop.

    Dr Sarah Brewer is the author of Increase Your Sex Drive ? the Amazing Power of Supplements, Herbs and Instant Aphrodisiacs (Thorsons £7.99)

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