Chinese Herbal Aphrodisiacs

In traditional Chinese medicine, one’s sexual health is connected with one’s kidneys. Yes, when you have kidneys that have weak chi circulation, then you’re definitely having sexual problems. Due to this, Chinese herbal medicines meant to cure your sexual dysfunction always target your kidney channels to improve its circulation. Your kidney chi and essence direct your sexual development and keep your libido healthy; improving the health of your kidneys often means increasing the health of your libido. Most Chinese herbal aphrodisiacs enhance sex drive and performance because they build kidney yin, kidney yang, and kidney Essence. More than that, they enhance immunity, energy, and stamina, giving them a profound impact on your overall health and longevity.

In China, vitality and sexual desire comes hand in hand. Without one, the other is useless. Due to this, they have come to great lengths discovering and perfecting their aphrodisiac recipes to generate and maximize its dual action; one for the strengthening of the body and health, the other for improvement of the lust and erection. Together equals overall vitality.

These herbs don’t act the same though. Some of them improve only the yin chi so they are recommended for those who are lacking in kidney yin, while others are rich in yang which is you know what, right?. And still, others give both yin and yang. These things should also create harmony within your chi system, just a balanced amount of yin and yang, because too much of the other will often lead to bad results and further problems. So don’t go taking all of them at once for faster and better improvement. It doesn’t work that way. Always consult with a practitioner of Chinese medicine near you.

Some of these herbs are indicated below:

Chinese Yam / Shan Yao (Dioscorea Opposita) - Used often as a tonic for the reproductive system. The dried white flesh of the tuber is sliced into long thin slabs, containing nutrients which can restore and enhance immune functions throughout the system. Traditional Chinese medicine classifies Chinese yam as neutral and sweet. It serves to tonify and augment the spleen and stomach; augment the lung yin and tonify the lung qi; and stabilize, tonify, and bind the kidneys. Chinese yam enters through the spleen, lung, and kidney channels (meridians). It is used as a tonic (restores tone to tissues). Chinese yam is used to treat weak digestion with fatigue and diarrhea, general weakness, frequent urination, decreased appetite, leukorrhagia (excessive vaginal discharge), premature ejaculation, the symptoms associated with diabetes, and chronic wheezing (whistling sound caused by breathing difficulty) and coughing.

Chinese ginseng / Rénshēn (Panax Ginseng) – It is a powerful herb for strengthening your chi and helping your body adapt to stress. It is used as a sexual tonic because of its modulating effects on your nervous system. If you are lethargic it can give you sexual energy, and if you are tense it can help you relax. Chinese ginseng contains compounds that may have effects on your body resembling those of certain sex and adrenal hormones. It does not act as an immediate sexual stimulant, but when taken long-term it can enhance your sexual vitality. It is usually used in combination with other herbal aphrodisiacs to increase sexual potency, kidney yang, and kidney Essence.

Fo-Ti-Tieng / Ho Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum) - Known as the elixir of long life, this herb has been used for over 2000 years in China to promote relaxation and improve memory, but has become popular as a powerful sexual stimulant. It is revered for its properties of rejuvenation and anti-aging that nourishes the blood, cleanses the liver and kidneys and enhances sexuality and fertility in both women and men. According to legend, it has the unique ability to return grey hair to its natural color. While there are no studies on this cosmetic ability, Polygonum, one of its alkaloids, has been shown to improve cognitive and several other functions in mice. It protects the heart tissue from oxidative damage, and has been determined to have surprisingly high estrogen activity, which may account for its reported sexually rejuvenating effects. The typical recommended dosage of this herb is 4-8 grams per day, which equals 4-8 ml of a (1:1) fluid extract. It may have a slight laxative effect, which can be reduced by lowering the dose. Modern research indicates that this herb contains an alkaloid that has a rejuvenating effect on the nerves, brain cells and endocrine glands.

Chinese Foxglove / Dìhuáng (Rehmannia, Rehmannia glutinosa) - Primarily referred to as "kidney's own food", it is believed to be a kidney tonic and longevity herb and is found in many common "anti-aging" formulations for longevity and rejuvenation. It is superb for nourishing your kidney yin and kidney Essence. Rehmannia is usually used in combination with other herbs to build Blood, and strengthen yin chi. As a women’s herb, it can enhance the female’s sexuality and draw chi and energy into their reproductive organs. Rehmannia is seldom prescribed as a single herb. One of the most popular Chinese herbal formulas containing rehmannia, along with other herbs for building kidney yin and kidney Essence, is Six Flavor Rehmannia Pills; the usual dose is eight pellets three times a day, depending on the type of product purchased.

Female Ginseng / Dong-quai (Angelica sinensis) - Also known as Chinese Angelica, it is primarily used in treating women's conditions such as loss of sexual desire and menopause. Women have discovered this 5,000-year-old tradition that naturally provides balancing and normalizing support for women's unique rhythms, cycles and body systems. However, it increases the effects of hormones in both men and women and is also widely used as an aphrodisiac. In Chinese medicine, Dong quai is most often used in combination with other herbs. Within the Chinese medical framework, Dong quai is used as a component of formulas for liver chi stasis and spleen deficiency. It is believed to work best in patients with a yin profile, and is considered to be a mildly warming herb. Dong quai is thought to return the body to proper order by nourishing the blood and harmonizing vital energy. The name Dong quai translates as "return to order" based on its alleged restorative properties.

Horny Goat Weed / Yin Yang Huo (Epimedium) - The Chinese refer to this herb as 'yin yang huo', a 'lichentious goat plant'; hence, its common name is well known as 'horny goat weed' in many western cultures. According to legend, this plant’s aphrodisiac properties was discovered by a Chinese goat herder who noticed sexual activity in his flock after they ate the weed. Epimedium is considered to be the most powerful vegetarian sexual tonic in Chinese medicine. For women, it is best used in combination with herbs like rehmannia, which strengthen or tonify yin, because epimedium has strong kidney yang-building effects. It may possess male hormone-like actions and is believed to work by stimulating your nervous system, especially the nerves in your genitalia. This herb has also been found to decrease high blood pressure, but it will not affect blood pressure that is too low. In addition, epimedium has powerful immunity-boosting and immunity-regulating effects. In Chinese medicine, it is also used for promoting heath and longevity. Epimedium should not be used regularly by women who have an overactive sex drive, a high fever, or symptoms of kidney yin deficiency such as hot flashes, insomnia, or anxiety. It is sold as a health supplement, usually in raw herb or pill form and sometimes blended with other supplements.

Sarsaparilla / Hua Khao Yen (Smilax ornate) - The Chinese refer to this herb as 'khao yen' and believe strongly in its abilities to act as an aphrodisiac and a sexual stimulant. Sarsaparilla has been used worldwide for its systemic benefits, especially sexually. Traditionally, sarsparilla root is widely taken as a tonic for the male reproductive system, and in low mood and debility associated with the menopause. It is a cleansing remedy for skin and joint problems.

Chinese Dodder / Tusizi (Cuscuta Chinensis) - Is commonly used in long-term tonic programs. It is a gentle tonic for the kidney yin and yang and also helps nourish Chi. It helps the kidney to consolidate the Chi and is widely used to improve vision, nourish the sperm and marrow and strengthen bones and sinews and to strengthen sexual functions. Cuscuta seed is commonly used in tonic formulations designed to benefit yin and yang. It is most commonly used to strengthen the uro-genital functions such as impotence, premature ejaculation, frequent urination and leukorrhea as well as ear ringing and aching lower back, symptoms which often accompany deficient kidney conditions that cause sexual weakness.

Dendrobium / Shi Hu (D. loddigesii, D. fimbriatum, D. chrysanthum, D. officinale, D. candidum, and D. nobile) - This variety of Chinese orchid is an excellent and delicious Yin Jing tonic and longevity herb. It is said to quickly and effectively replace spent "adaptive energy" and is widely used by the orientals who engage in high sexual activity to replace the spent energy and to replace fluids; and thus it is commonly called "honeymooners tea." When combined with licorice root, it is also called "healer's tea," as it provides healing energy which can be transmitted to others and replace spent healing energy.

Caterpillar Fungus / Dong Chong Xia Cao (Cordyceps sinensis) - is one of the shining stars among Chinese herbal aphrodisiacs. It has been revered for thousands of years in the Orient, but has historically been very rare. As a result of modern growing techniques, it is now available to everyone at a fraction of its traditional cost. Cordyceps is used for the purposes of strengthening the primary kidney functions, which include sexual function, brain power, structural integrity and healing ability. In terms of sexual function, it builds your sexual energy over time by enhancing your kidney yang and replenishing your kidney yin. Because of its dual nature, expansive yet contractive, cordyceps is a perfect sexual tonic for women. It also has immunity-enhancing properties. In China, cordyceps is highly valued. Fortunately, it has become more readily available as a result of modern cultivation techniques. The recommended dose of cordyceps as a single herb is 500 milligrams two to three times a day. Refrain from using cordyceps if you have a fever.

Read More...

Aphrodisiacs, Love Potion5

Aphrodisiacs have long been part of the cultural heritage on all parts of the world. Almost everyone is preoccupied with the propagation of the species; and keeping it all the more worthwhile and exciting became part of every culture’s practices and interests even if considered taboo by the prevailing ideology.

Asia has its share in the use of aphrodisiacs. In fact, even with all these population explosion problems and the demise of the population of several endangered species, consumption of these aphrodisiacs is still practiced and highly sought after.

It’s as if it’s as important as, say, special occasions or community activities. Actually, it’s a personal take but, judging from what I have been seeing, it’s even a lot more.

When it comes to keeping the love alive, nothing is more proven than aphrodisiacs. More than a dose of mystical love potions, these ingestible igniters of sexual desires have been long associated with love, romance and passion.

Most common aphrodisiacs have been known to produce substances in our body that heightens our sensuality and increases our blood flow. If so, in a sense, it is also a sort of love potion. Anyways, here are some common aphrodisiacs that may come your way.


SWEETS
Chocolate, with its rich and sweet flavor and smooth creaminess, has compounds that simulate the feelings you get when you are in love. Eat lots of this and over time you’ll be saying good bye to your beautiful teeth, or worse, there’s a sickness called diabetes. So, take this only occasionally.


HERBS
Herbs are known for their healthful properties as well as aphrodisiac qualities. A happy, healthy love life requires two happy, healthy people. Herbs can help. Be careful though. Take only herbs that are used for cooking. Some medicinal herbs are poisonous when not prepared properly. Maybe instead of leading a happy love life, you end up with an untimely death.

Basil - The fresh leaves have an alluring aroma.
Cilantro -  also known as Coriander, is a pungent herb that promotes vigor, and heightens emotions and arousal, especially for women.
Oregano – O-re-ga-no, O-re-gan, Or-gan. The Italian herb has more going for it than you know!
Rosemary - Heightens memory and improves circulation. Take it and you won’t forget.
Saffron - A stimulating, expensive herb, saffron has an association with luxury.
Thyme - This herb contains many antioxidants that keep your cells humming along. Antioxidants also help reduce the occurrence of cancer.


SPICES
Spices have been considered aphrodisiacs by many cultures around the world. Their intense flavor surely must jump start two sweethearts' love life.

Chili Powder - Highly flavorful and often very hot. Its intensity can add to yours. Caution: Hot. Take only what you can handle.
Cinnamon - Sweet but stimulating, cinnamon increases blood flow.
Clove - Exotic spice that boosts your energy, energy to last the night.
Fennel - This tasty seed increases sex drive.
Ginger - Another flavorful, hot spice that can add a jump to your love life.
Nutmeg- A spice with a complex aroma that excites the imagination.
Vanilla - The smell alone increases blood flow and is especially enticing for older men. When you’re old and nothing happens, try Viagra.


SEAFOOD
Seafood has often been associated with the ability to arouse sensual feelings, because they are rich in protein.

Caviar - An exotic food that promotes sensuousness.
Oyster - Raw oysters, perhaps it’s the texture or the flavor, have long been considered an aphrodisiac.
Salmon - Rich, deeply flavorful fish that stimulates the appetite.
Tuna Steak - A food that creates a boisterous, happy well being (especially when grilled).


FRUITS
Aside from their vitamin and mineral rich properties, fruits often play our imaginations because of their close resemblance to the human organs that are associated and involved in sex.

Apricot - Plump and sweet flavored, apricots where thought by the Chinese to indicate a romantic, sensual nature.
Banana - Shape, sweetness, and texture promotes sensuality.
Cherry - These delectable fruits are said to arouse desire, especially in women.
Date - Rich and exotic, dates are considered aphrodisiacs for women.
Peach - Succulent, juicy, and flavorful, a ripe peach is a sensual treat and promotes interest in other sensual treats!
Pear - A ripe pear with sweet juice... yummmmmmmy.
Fig - A soft, ripe fig has an incredible sweet flavor, just perfect for sharing with your love.
Papaya - Tropical and exotic, excellent for nibbling.
Strawberry - Just-picked, perfect strawberries are ideal for dipping in chocolate, or savoring on their own.
Avocado - Rich and creamy, considered an aphrodisiac especially for women.


VEGETABLES
A lot of people consider vegetables dull like something that they eat because they've been told. "Vegetables are good for you." They are, but perhaps, not in the way you expected. Like fruits, they too are very suggestive.

Asparagus - Long stems and succulent tips that can be quite suggestive.
Carrot - All root vegetables draw power and intensity from the earth and can transfer that power and intensity to your love life.
Celery - Great for pepping up your blood flow.
Cucumber - Just its shape alone gives people ideas.
Radish - Another root vegetable that's crisp, allowing you to sink your teeth into it.
Turnip - A rather dull looking vegetable, but turnips gives strength to soups, stews, and you.
Zucchini - Similar to a cucumber.

Read More...

Top 10 Aphrodisiacs for Valentine's Day

We found 10 foods that are linked with love. Sample the recipes in our countdown with your sweetie and find out if these aphrodisiacs really work!

#10 Avocado
It could be the sensuous pear shape or the rich flavor of the fruit that gives avocado its aphrodisiac reputation. Whether added to salad, pureed in soups or chopped into the perfect bowl of fresh guacamole, the sea-green treat is perfect on your Valentine's table.

#9 Bananas
Rich in potassium and vitamin B, bananas are a feel-good food. For a sweet overindulgence, try a banana milkshake made with ripe bananas, milk and honey. According to banana.com, the combination will calm your stomach and re-regulate your blood sugar.

#8 Chili Peppers
This invigorating spice has an exotic reputation and stimulates endorphins. No wonder it is considered a symbol of love. Arriba!

#7 Honey
Birds and bees ring a bell? Honey is made through pollination and is a symbol of procreation. The word "honeymoon" got its name from mead, an alcoholic beverage made from honey, which was given to the happy couple.

#6 Pine Nuts
High in energizing zinc, pine nuts are also considered aphrodisiacs because of the effort required to procure these oily gems from pinecones.

#5 Figs
Used by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the fig paradoxically symbolizes both sexuality and modesty.

#4 Arugula
According to gourmetsleuth.com, this peppery plant has been documented as an aphrodisiac since the first century A.D. Toss it in a vibrant salad to give it a try.

#3 Oysters
One of the most notorious aphrodisiacs, oysters are high in zinc and have a reputation for being great for love and fertility.

#2 Coffee
The caffeine in coffee is a stimulant that ups the heart rate and makes the blood flow. Additionally, it is the top source of antioxidants in the American diet, according to a 2005 University of Scranton study.

#1 Chocolate
The mysterious powers of chocolate are well loved. Whatever is in the sweet substance that sends us running back for more, it's definitely indispensable to Valentine's Day.


Source: Reader's Digest.com

Read More...