Are you ready for another Valentine’s with your partner? Any ideas on how you could make it extra steamy and more memorable? It all comes down to our hormones.
The act of sex and our libido are both regulated by our hormones, and no you don’t have to take medications to regulate that. This article will bring you 5 over-the-counter supplements to prepare for this year’s Valentine’s.
Vitex
Vitex agnus-castus, also known as a chaste tree, is a native of the Mediterranean region. It has been shown to help regulate the normal balance of female estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle. Much recent research has demonstrated that it can improve sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women, and also facilitate the overall sexual function in women of reproductive age.
Tribulus
Tribulus is an herbal product prepared from the leaves, fruit, and roots of Tribulus Terrestris, extracts of which have been used as an aphrodisiac, general tonic and mood stimulant in traditional medicine. It has been shown to significantly reduce the symptoms of erectile dysfunction in males and improve sex desire in females. However, pregnant and breastfeeding should exercise caution and consult a doctor before taking Tribulus supplements.
Ginseng
Ginseng is the root of plants in the genus Panax, such as South China ginseng, Korean ginseng, and American ginseng. It has been commonly used in ancient Chinese medicine to boost energy levels, lower blood sugar, and reduce stress. A less well-known health effect of ginseng is that it can also manage sexual dysfunction in males and promote sexual desire and satisfaction in females. On the market, you can find raw ginseng root and powders, which can be used for cooking, also ginseng capsules, which can be taken directly with water.
Maca
Lepidium meyenii, known as maca or Peruvian ginseng, is an edible herbaceous plant of the family Brassicaceae that is native to South America in the high Andes mountains of Peru. A 2002 study has shown that it could improve sexual desire in adult healthy men, while a 2008 study indicated that it could also improve symptoms of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Like ginseng, depends on how you’d like to take it, you can find powder, capsules and tablets on the market.
Zinc
Zinc is a not so frequently mentioned mineral important for human health. It is a major player in the creation of DNA, the growth of cells, building proteins, the healing of damaged tissue and supporting a healthy immune system. In males, the highest concentration of zinc is found in the testes. With inadequate zinc the body is unable to synthesise testosterone, resulting in low libido. Studies have shown that zinc supplementation may enhance sexual desire, arousal, pleasure, and vaginal wetness during intercourse, as well as the total sexual function score.
Conclusion
There are indeed a variety of libido supplements available on the market. Lots of aphrodisiac food or supplements come with subtle side effects that you may not be able to notice in the short term. For pregnant and breastfeeding women, always consult your doctor before taking hormonal-related supplements this Valentine’s Day.
