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Several supplements have been shown to have a positive effect on libido. The following three-step programme can help to boost a low sex drive in both men and women
If there is no significant improvement in your sex drive after following a prosexual programme for 12 weeks, you should consult your doctor. Around five per cent of people with loss of sex drive have raised levels of the hormone, prolactin, which needs investigation and treatment.
Three- step programme
Step One: Take a multivitamin and mineral supplement to help correct any nutrient deficiencies that may be linked with reduced physical or sexual energy.
Step Two: Take evening primrose oil to provide essential fatty acids needed for a healthy balance of sex hormones.
Step Three: Select one of the following prosexual supplements below, whichever seems most suited to your needs.
Catuaba is made from the powdered bark of a tree from the Brazilian rainforest known as 'the tree of togetherness'. It acts as a sexual stimulant and promotes erotic dreams and increased sexual desire in both men and women. It is also used to maintain potency and fertility in older males and to help male impotence. Catuaba can be beneficial for those whose low sex drive is linked to overwork or stress, and for men with erectile difficulties.
Damiana, derived from the dried aromatic leaves of a small shrub, gently stimulates desire and increases sensitivity of nerve endings to produce tingling and throbbing sensations in the genitals. It can be beneficial for those whose loss of sex drive is linked to decreased sensitivity and difficulty in achieving arousal.
Muira puama comes from the dried bark and roots of a Brazilian tree popularly known as 'potency wood'. It is believed to increase libido through a direct action on brain chemicals by stimulating nerve endings in the genitals, and may also promote the effects of testosterone hormone. It is helpful for both men and women with low sex drive, and for males with temporary difficulty maintaining an erection.
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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