Sexual Function & Herbs

Power Plant Podcast

Today’s show is about sexual function. The two key issues we run into when talking about sexual function is the desire to have sex and the actual function of having sex. When we talk about sexual function it applies mostly to the physical function of sex, mainly erectile dysfunction. This might explain why there are 24 FDA approved treatments for men and as of 2015 only one approved treatment for women. What’s interesting is that sexual dysfunction effects 43% of women compared to 31% of men and yet we only see commercials for correcting male erectile dysfunction.

When we look at why sexual dysfunction happens, it’s mainly due to a lack of desire due to stress and anxiety which can lead to depression and low energy. We’ll explore herbs and extracts that can help with these symptoms and we’ll also be taking your calls. We’ll hear from Jenn in Buffalo, NY who is in the early stages of menopause and is dealing with low estrogen levels as well as a lack of desire to have sex. We’ll also hear from William in Boise, Idaho who is suffering from erectile dysfunction do to both stress and communication issues with his partner. On the call, William tells us he started taking Viagra and hasn’t told his partner because he’s afraid she will be upset and cause more friction in the relationship. Last we will hear from Sue in New Jersey who has a question regarding the desire to have sex. Sue has HSDD (Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder.) She loves her partner but feels her libido switch has been turned off. She’s considering taking the FDA regulated drug “Addyi” and is worried about low blood pressure side effects.

If you have questions regarding herbal nutrition or are looking for a natural solution to something that ales you, please give us a call at 512 853 9005 and we will try our best to answer your question.

This show is sponsored by Dr. Vim's Herbal Nutrition. Dr. Vim's herbal formulas are designed for men and women to mental focus, physical energy, stress reduction and a healthy libido. They use only filler free high potency botanical extracts. ensuring that every batch delivers a full dose of the most powerful phytonutrients on the planet.

SHOW NOTES:

Herbs and plants that might be beneficial for sexual desire in men and women:

1. Relaxing herbs to help you get you in the mood:

• Avena Sativa
• Passion Flower
• Lemon Balm

2. Tonic herbs and herbs that help balance cortisol and sex hormones:

• Ashwagandha
• Ginseng
• Maca
• Tribulus Terrestris
• Cordyceps
• Holy Basil
• Tongkat Ali
• Cistanche Tubulosa

3. Stimulating herbs and herbs that direct blood flow:

• Damiana
• Tongkat Ali
• Catuaba
• Muira Puama
• Cistanche Tubulosa
• Safed Musli

4. Herbs and Plants that support heart health and blood flow.

• Beets
• Hawthorn Berry
• Cayenne
• Ginger

5. Aphrodisiac Spices you can add to herbal infusions to enhance flavor:

• Vanilla
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cardamom
• Ginger

How to pair herbs when making a special blend for you and your partner:

Try to pair a nervous system stimulant with something that's mood enhancing and balances cortisol. It could be beneficial to add something that promotes blood circulation as well. You can pick herbs from a few of the categories listed above based on your preferences to make an infusion with your partner.

Think about the elements as you make your blend. If you have experience with herbs, you may be able to mix something up intuitively. If you are a beginner here's an example of one way you can think about it:

GABA - Promotes a positive, welcoming mood.

Cortisol - Stress hormone that might turn you off!

Nitric Oxide - Supports blood flow

Stimulant - In this sense, something that might direct blood flow to the pelvic region.

So we have cornered some of the elements that compose a nice herbal aphrodisiac infusion! Now, we just have to figure out the perfect ratio to suit our individual needs! Be sure to look up recommended dosage ranges for these herbs. Too much or too little might not do the trick.

Here's is a very simple way to dial in your love tonic. You might focus in on a couple of herbs and use smaller amounts of other herbs to create the perfect recipe.

1. Select a chief herb
2. Select a secondary herb
3. Pick some Herbs for enhanced synergy
4. Spices for added flavor if desired

Lemon Balm and Passion Flower promote GABA

Avena Sativa restores the nervous system while reliving anxiety

Holy Basil support cortisol balance

Damiana was traditionally used by natives from Mexico to increase sexual desire. It’s both stimulating and relaxing at the same time and is also known to promote a sense of well-being. It is also believed to stimulate Nitric Oxide and direct blood flow to the pelvic region.

Sample Infusion Recipe: Passion Flower & Damiana Elixir

Passion Flower, Holy Basil, Avena sativa, and Damiana. This blend would be great at night because it might also help you sleep well!

Try adding Vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg or cayenne to spice your infusion up.

Sample 2: Chocolate and Maca Elixir

Maca - Directs blood flow and is known to boost mood and increase sexual desire.

Chocolate - Boosts mood and contains a lot of magnesium, which can help to calm the nervous system. So basically, it can stimulate and help you relax at the same time.

Try adding a table spoon of beet crystals to enhance blood flow. It also adds a nice color to your chocolate and maca blend.

Try adding aphrodisiac spices: Vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, cayenne or any combo that sounds good to you.

You can make a simple chocolate and maca elixir to help you get in the right mood! Start by taking a high quality organic dark chocolate bar and crumbling it up. Heat 2/3 cup almond milk on low heat. Add the chocolate crumbles and whisk until it is well blended. Add 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Gelatinized Maca powder. Whisk in cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne, etc. if desired. Remove from heat and serve in a mug. Enjoy!

You can use raw cacao powder, sweeten with beet crystals if you prefer. If you like it bitter, use unsweetened, dark chocolate or raw cacao.

Tonic Herbs that can be taken in the long run to promote healthy sexual function, balance sex hormones and cortisol:

• Tongkat Ali
• Avena Sativa
• Ashwagandha
• Cistanche Tubulosa
• Ginseng (American and Asian)
• Rhodiola Rosea
• Eleuthero Root
• Cordyceps
• Tribulus Terrestres
• Moomiyo or Shilajiit
• Licorice Root

Lifestyle choices:

1 Diet: We need key nutrients like zinc, selenium, b - vitamins, omega 3's, and vitamin D to make sex hormones and to take care of the Adrenal glands. We also need sound nutrition to make neurotransmitters that can boost mood.

2. Exercise:We have to be healthy to have a healthy libido. Exercise, but don't over-do it! Too much exercise is another form of stress and can actually lower hormone levels.

3. Get counseling:Some problems you can solve on your own, but you shouldn’t feel bad about seeking professional help when you need it.

4. Communicate with your partner: Chances are you both have some anxieties that can be talked through. Social engagement is the most advanced way to cope with stress. Effectively communicating with your partner can add to intimacy and build the trust you need to feel comfortable with your sexual expression.

5. Get sunlight: You need sunlight to make vitamin D3 and to help your body make neurotransmitters as well