It is often held that women's libido is of a much more complex nature than that of men. This is as maybe, but at a fundamental level, it is probably true of both sexes that overall good health and well-being, or more pertinently the lack of this, often lie at the heart of the matter, which causes this and so many other things to go wrong. Underlying problems such as nervous debility, low thyroid function and hormonal imbalances, depression and plain old tiredness, are but a very few of the health-related factors that can contribute to the problem. Of course there are other social and emotional issues that may have an impact as well.
As herbal medicine is an holistic therapy, medical herbalists would first would look at restoring the general good health of the body, which when restored is likely to help restore libido more or less passively without the need for specific 'aphrodisiac herbs, Specific attention would be given to any underlying health conditions which could exacerbate the condition. Simple life-style things like exercising more can help to elevate hormone levels and paying attention to eating healthily may also assist.
However for those of you who want to gently spice up your love lives here are a few herbal helpers;
Adaptogen herbs (for more info on this class of herb, see 'adaptogens' blog below) will be supporting players, whatever the cause, these can often improve libido via indirect mechanisms, but will be most effective where fatigue is a contributor to the condition. Herbs such as Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera), Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococccus senticosus) and Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng) all of which have been used for increasing libido in men may also help women. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is another adaptogen, which may help by working to combat nervousness, tension and fatigue and helping depression, by promoting general well-being.
Where there is anxiety or nervous depression, herbs to support the nervous system can be useful as they can relieve tension and elevate low mood. For example, herbs rich in essential oils may stimulate neurotransmitters in the brain helping enhance sensual stimuli. Rose (Rosa spp.) is one such herb, long attributed to Venus the Goddess of Love, its sensual aroma is thought to engender relaxation.
The following have been given specifically as relaxant aphrodisiacs, many also influencing the reproductive and other systems. Angelica (Angelica archangelica) is a uterine tonic and taken regularly it is thought that it may have a cumulative effect on sex drive. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), Vervain (Verbena officinalis) and Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) also make an appearance in this category. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is another I have already mentioned in another blog. Motherwort (Leonorus cardiaca) is a sedative and a vasoconstrictor and may promote arousal by increasing vasocongestion in the genitalia. It also effects the uterine muscle the pelvic region. At a basic level encouraging an increase of blood to the pelvic region may assist and herbs such as Ginkgo biloba and Capsicum (Chillies) are good for this. A warming tea made with hot water with a small pinch of Cinnamon or Ginger and drank before love making may also help to warm the cockles of your heart. As always, be careful with all of these herbs, some will not be suitable if you are pregnant or lactating, or suffering from any other condition.
This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source.
Source Nickel, N. L. (2001) Nature's aphrodisiacs USA: The Crossing Press Incorporated
Catherine Schofield BSc MNIMH Herbalist Cheshire Herbs and Herbal Medicine