Herbal Aphrodisiacs & Sensual Play

By: Candice Brunlinger, Herbalist

Aphrodite ~ The Greek Goddess of Love

Throughout history there are many references in written texts and art reflecting the fascination humans have with love and aphrodisiacs. The word aphrodisiac comes from Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of Love and it describes the action of a substance which enhances sexual desire, functions and performance and can include herbs, food, aromas, beverages and even sensual activities. The use of aphrodisiacs date back to ancient times and are referenced in texts from Egyptian, Roman, Greek, Ayurvedic, Chinesse, Aztec and many other cultures.

There are various ways plants can increase libido and sex drive ranging from increasing circulation to genitals, stimulating the production and/or improving the utilization of sexual hormones, increasing sexual fluids, relaxing and releasing social barriers, etc. It is important to note that our sexual vitality can be a reflection of our overall health and vitality so we need to nourish our entire body and mind, finding our optimal balance.

Stimulating Herbal Aphrodisiacs

There are many aromatic seeds and culinary spices which stimulate sexual desire and libido which is one of the many reasons they have a long history in cuisine and perfumery. They include anise, basil (fresh), cacao (chocolate), caraway, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cumin, fennel, ginger, nutmeg, saffron, etc. You can receive the aphrodisiac properties of these spices by smelling and tasting them in food and infusing them into alcohol and honey to make liquors and cordials. Eat or drink before or during to enhance the experience. The essential oils can be used in aromatic blends to make perfumes, scent candles and diffuse throughout the room.

Chocolate is made from the cacao bean and is sweetened due to its bitter flavor when raw or roasted. The darker the chocolate the more nutrients and aphrodisiac qualities we receive, however; it should be noted that enjoying the taste of the chocolate also helps enhance our sensual desires so find the right level of sweetness for your palate. Chocolate is known for stimulating endorphins and lifting the spirits. One of my favorite ways of using raw cacao is by adding the chopped beans or nibs into cordial and liquor recipes. Or take the powder and make delicious chocolate desserts. You can also use chocolate syrup for sensual foreplay which is very delicious and a fun flirtatious activity with your partner to set the mood, enhance your intimate connection and get the juices flowing.

Sensual Herbal Aphrodisiacs

The sensual & playful Ylang Ylang

Then there are the sensual smelling and floral herbs such as jasmine, neroli, rose, vanilla and ylang ylang which are commonly worn as a perfume to attract the attention of others while stimulating pheromones and sex drive. Since flowers are the genitals and reproductive organs of the plant and release scents which attract us to smell them, they can do the same for us. Use the essential oil in bath salts blends for a sensual bath. You can also dilute the oils in water and hydrosols to make a spray to mist on your body, throughout the room or on the bedding. If you have a diffuser or fountain add a few drops of the oil into it so the aroma fills the room. Floral scented candles are also nice to burn to receive aphrodisiac benefits and candles create a nice ambiance to set the mood. If you have fresh or dried flowers sprinkle them into a bath, on or next to the bed or infuse into a tea to drink.

Roses have a very long history as being a symbol of love and passion, especially red roses. “Giving a woman a dozen long stem red roses is an instantaneous aphrodisiac and the ultimate acknowledgement of her desirable passion.” (1) A high quality essential oil is considered very precious and is expensive because a substantial quantity of flowers is needed to create a very small amount of oil. A little goes a long way since roses are very aromatic so I enjoy using it blended with other scents. Rose water and hydrosol can be added to aromatic sprays, perfumes, baths, lotion, creams, etc. If it is culinary grade you can add a splash into your desserts or beverages.  
  

Relaxing Herbal Aphrodisiacs

The Exotic Passion Flower

Some aphrodisiacs have a relaxing nature which help reduce tension, anxiety or barriers preventing one from being able to be in the moment to feel sensual and enjoy the experience. Stress has a significant impact on libido and is known to reduce sex drive. Since the brain is the root of our body’s sexual response, stress and mental distractions can impair the production of endorphins, our feel good hormones and can prevent us from being able to focus on enjoying sex or sensual activities. Stress also directs circulation away from our reproductive organs which can impair both men and women’s overall performance. When we are relaxed our senses are heightened resulting in a deeper connection and more pleasurable experience. Some common relaxing herbs with an aphrodisiac nature include ashwagandha, lavender, kava kava, oatstraw, passion flower, roses and skullcap.

The heart shaped Kava Kava leaves

Kava Kava is a Polynesian plant which is becoming more popular over the years for its euphoric, muscle relaxing and anti-anxiety effects. Its botanical name, Piper methysticum, means “intoxicating pepper”. It is commonly consumed during social gatherings as it helps reduce social barriers, lift the mood and can even give you the giggles or make you feel “buzzed”. It does have varying effects for people so start with small amounts and slowly increase the amount you eat or drink until you are familiar with the way your body responds to the plant. If you use too much it can become too relaxing for some individuals. The heart shaped leaves of this plant is a doctrine of signature indicating its use as an aphrodisiac.

Hormone Balancing Aphrodisiacs

The sexy Damiana in bloom

Some herbs like Damiana leaf are well known for stimulating our “feel good” hormones such as oxytocin which are produced during orgasms and enhance many of the sensations we feel during sex. It is believed that if one has a hard time reaching an orgasm then they could be deficient in oxytocin. Damiana can be beneficial in these situations and was praised during the Ancient Aztec era as a strong stimulating aphrodisiac along with chocolate. Both herbs are still commonly used in modern Central and South America to restore sexual desire. Drink the damiana leaves in a tea or infuse in some wine or alcohol to make liquors and cordials. Damiana can also be smoked by itself or with other herbs such as passion flower, rose and mints to help relax and set the mood.

Refer to the next section about adaptogenic herbs which also support and balance hormones.

Adaptogenic Herbal Aphrodisiacs

The viril Ashwagandha root

Adaptogen herbs build and restore the body when used over time. They have multiple benefits for sexual health including balancing hormones and enhancing libido, virility, endurance, stamina and performance. They help the mind and body “adapt” to stress reducing the overall negative affects of stress as well as how we respond to it. They are considered “chi tonics” which strengthen our life force. Some of the herbs are lubricating and bring moisture to the tissues body wide and can replenish reproductive fluids. Some examples include ashwagandha, eleuthero, ginseng, licorice, maca, muira puama, oats, sarsaparilla, schisandra and shatavari.

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb known to restore sexual health and endurance for both men and women. It has similar actions to ginseng but is not related to the ginseng family.  It is a cerebral and nerve tonic which indirectly supports sexual health. In Sanskrit Ashwagandha means “the smell of a horse,” indicating that the herb imparts the vigor and strength of a horse or stallion. (4)

Muira puama root

Muira puama is often called “potency wood” or “tree of virility” which says it all. This Amazonian plant is a stimulant and increases overall energy and endurance. Is has a long history in the Amazonian region to aid with impotence & sexual insufficiency. It is becoming increasingly more popular to use as herbal “Viagra” and is safer compared to other herbs with similar actions such as yohimbe. (5) 

Schisandra is a berry from Traditional Chinese Medicine and literally supports the entire body and all organ systems. It is praised as a sexual and reproductive restorative herb especially for enhancing fluids and moisture. It is used in many formulas to support vaginal dryness and is commonly referred to as a “juicy” herb.

Shatavari is another Ayurvedic aphrodisiac, sexual restorative and fertility tonic. It is the Indian asparagus root and literally means “having 100 spouses”. According to Ayurveda, Shatavari increases libido, strengthens reproductive organs, balances hormones, and enhances reproductive fluids. It can benefit men with impotence and general sexual debility. (6)

The moist Shatavari root

The juicy Schisandra berries

“Stay wet 
and moist, 
  green and juicy”

~ Hildegard von Bingen (1)

Circulatory Stimulating Herbal Aphrodisiacs

If circulation is affecting the experience, the following herbs can be used to increase circulation and direct blood flow to the reproductive organs and genitalia. The gentle and moderate circulatory tonics can be used regularly with minimal contraindications and include all the spices mentioned above as well as ginkgo, gotu kola, hawthorn, muira puama, prickly ash bark, and rosemary.

Yohimbe increases circulation to the gentiles but is an extremely intense herb and can have harmful effects if not use properly so I personally do not recommend using it unless you are working with a practioner; however, I do feel the need to mention it since it is considered a powerful aphrodisiac and acts as herbal Viagra for men. Unfortunately, the wrong dose can result in hospitalization as it has a high-risk–to benefit ratio with the following side effects: nervousness, irritability, dizziness, headache, sweating, hypertension, tachycardia, psychoses, hallucinations, potential renal failure, and a lupus-like syndrome. (7) Blood pressure should always be monitored and avoid use with all prescribed and OTC medications and any stimulants including caffeine. I would encourage working with other aphrodisiacs which are safer to use.   

         

Nourishing Reproductive Herbs

Although herbs in this category may not be considered direct aphrodisiacs, it is important to nourish our body and reproductive organs to have strong sexual health and vitality. Nourishing reproductive herbs include burdock, dandelion, nettle, oatstraw/milky oats, red raspberry leaf, saw palmetto, etc. Use these herbs regularly over time by drinking them in tea infusions or incorporating them into your meals.

Oatstraw is considered a sexual restorative herb. It nourishes the entire body but especially the nervous and reproductive systems. The milky oat seeds (tops) provide the most lubricating and moistening benefits and are known to help replenish sexual fluids.  

Nourishing Milky Oats

"If the body is full of vitality, is at ease, and the mind is poised and at peace, 
sex can be a powerful expression of that vitality."
 

~ David Hoffmann, The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal (1)

Non-Herbal Aphrodisiacs & Activities to Set the Mood

There are many foods known to have aphrodisiac benefits including oysters, honey, fruit (especially pomegranates, apples, oranges, grapes, bananas and strawberries), artichokes, asparagus, etc.  Having a diet with various colors where you consume the full rainbow spectrum is beneficial to receive a variety of nutrients to support overall health and vitality, balance hormones and support reproductive health. You can easily include the delicious spices mentioned earlier as well as the other aphrodisiac herbs to your food for ultimate benefits. 

Honey has endless health and nutritive benefits but many are not aware of the wonderful aphrodisiac nature of this sweet nectar. In Greek mythology, honey is known as the “nectar of Aphrodite.” It has traditionally been used in sexual and marriage ceremonies for centuries. The word “honeymoon” was actually coined from the traditional use of drinking mead after a wedding to encourage sex & increase libido & fertility in women after marriage.

There are many aphrodisiac herbs which taste wonderful in honey including: allspice, anise, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, damiana, ginger, licorice, lavender, orange peel, roses, etc. Use infused or aromatic honeys in tea, food, desserts, herbal balls, cordials, syrups and for body care.

“If one desires another’s love, one must take an orange and prick it all over with a needle, then sleep with it under one’s arm-pit. If the loved one then eats the orange, he or she will return love.”

~ European Folklore (1)

Ambiance can be beneficial to relax and set the mood and varies from person to person. Try soft lighting, candles, a fire, incense, flowers or music to relax and set a romantic tone throughout the room. If possible, minimize any distractions. It may seem cheesy but if you do not have a fire place but subscribe to Netflix you can stream their holiday fire video where sounds of crackling wood can give you the impression of a fire. That sound definitely makes me want to snuggle up next my partner. Having a warm and comfortable temperature in the room helps as we are not as interested in removing clothing when it is cold.

Sensual activities and foreplay can be very beneficial for igniting passion, enhancing desire and to get the juices flowing. Try flirting with your partner, initiating mild horse play or tickling to have some fun. Relax with each other using sensual massage, baths or a soak in the hot tub. Connect with each other through a romantic home cooked meal, going for a nice walk, participating in activities which are common interest, dancing, etc. Wear sexy lingerie to get the attention of your partner. Play intimate games which initiate deeper connections. My favorite is a version of 20 questions where you ask intimate questions about what your partner likes or fantasizes about. Incorporate some aphrodisiac whipped cream, desserts, fruit, syrups or cordials by bringing them into bed for a delicious, fun and sensual experience.

If you like to meditate or say affirmations try the following exercises:

Heart Chakra Meditation – If you would like to connect with your partner from the heart close your eyes and relax bringing your attention to your chest and visualize the color green. With each breath in feel the chest expanding and allow the heart energy to be open and flowing. With each breath out feel the chest contract but try and maintain an expansive heart. When you feel open and connected with your own heart you can send your love to your partner by visualizing your energy flow towards their heart. You can use imagery such as flowers or a symbol which is significant to you both if desired. When you are ready, slowly bring your awareness back and open your eyes. You should still feel an open heart full of passion and love for yourself and your partner.

Repeat any one of these love affirmations before or after your meditation:

“My heart is open to give and receive loving energy. 

Every experience deepens my compassion and understanding of the principles of love. 
Love radiates from me unconditionally, and gratitude fills my heart!”  
~Mindy Green and Kathy Keville (2)

“Deep at the center of my being there is an infinite well of love.”

~Louise Hay (3)

“Love fills my heart, my body, my mind, my consciousness, my very being, and radiates 
out from me in all directions and returns to me multiplied.” ~Louise Hay (3)

Sacral Chakra Meditation – If you would like to deepen your connection to your sacrum and be empowered by your own creative and sexual energy try this exercise. Close your eyes and relax, focusing on your breath. With each inhale bring your breath deeper into your body. Feel your first few breaths in your lungs expanding your chest more and more with each breath until you are taking slow and deep breaths. Then direct your breath and energy flow to your ribs and then to your belly. Feel your belly expand with each inhalation and contract with each exhalation for a few breaths. When you are ready move the breath to your lower abdomen below your navel and right above your pelvic bone. Visualize the vibrant color orange and feel your creative fire from within. Use any imagery which ignites your passion and visualize your sexual fluids flowing. You may start to feel more sensations in your genital regions and a sense of euphoria. You can visualize your partner if desired and send your sexual fire towards them from your lower belly. When you are ready slowly bring your awareness back and open your eyes. With practice, this exercise can be a powerful tool to do by yourself or with your partner to set the mood, prepare the body for sexual intimacy and enhance your passionate connection with each other. 

Repeat any one of these sexual affirmations before or after your meditation:

"I am worthy of love. I honor my beautiful body and am balanced sexually. 
My creativity provides a healthy outlet for the expression of my inner self. I am love!" 
~Mindy Green and Kathy Keville (2)

"I am radiant, beautiful and strong and I enjoy a healthy and passionate life."

~Author unknown

"I deserve pleasure in my life. I am emotionally aware of myself. I move easily and effortlessly. 
I embrace my sexuality. My sexuality is sacred."

~Author unknown

For added benefits you can breathe in some aphrodisiac aromas or eat and drink them before these exercises to enhance your meditation and amplify your intentions.

Has this article inspired you to find fun and sensual ways of using aphrodisiac herbs and food?
If so, click here to check out my post "DIY: Sensual Recipes to get the Juices Flowing"

By Candice Brunlinger, Herbalist

(Copyright 2016)

About the Author:

Candice Brunlinger has been studying and practicing herbal healing since 2004. Her interests include incorporating plant medicine as a way of living, making herbal remedies, cooking, growing herbs, gardening, teaching, writing and being a mom. She teaches for the Northwest School of Botanical Studies & Humboldt Herbals, Volunteers as a farm Herbalist, has a small clinical practice and an herbal product line, Herbal Infusions.

You can visit her Nourishing Herbs blog or become a member of her facebook group Herbal Living.

References:

1)      Botanica Erotica – Arousing Body, Mind and Spirit by Diana De Luca; Copyright 1998

2)      Aromatherapy: The Complete Guide to the Healing Art by Mindy Green and Kathy Keville; Copyright 2009

3)      Law of Attraction Haven; “Love Affirmations”

http://www.law-of-attraction-haven.com/louise-hay-affirmations-love.html

4)      The Chopra Center; “What is Ashwagandha?” By Jenna Saunders

http://www.chopra.com/ccl/ashwagandha#sthash.4XkmBrBt.dpuf

5)      Herb Wisdom; “Muira Puama”

http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-muira-puama.html

6)      Home of Ayurveda; “Shatavari – Ayurveda’s Gift to Women”

http://homeofayurveda.org/shatavari-ayurvedas-gift-to-women/

7)      Salisbury University; Herbal Remedies – “Yohimbe”

http://www.salisbury.edu/nursing/herbalremedies/yohimbe.htm

***I would love to hear your thoughts. What do you think of this post? 

Please share your favorite recipes and aphrodisiacs in the comments below.