The origin of the term “aphrodisiac” derives from Greek mythology and refers to Aphrodite , the goddess of love. Since the beginning of time, men have sought aphrodisiac products to stimulate their passion. Although Viagra ( sildenafil citrate) has been shown to be an extremely effective aphrodisiac, it requires a prescription and is not appropriate for all men. For example, it is considered inadvisable for those with underlying cardiovascular risk. That is why we are going to offer a few alternatives to perform at your best in bed.
None of the following supplements require a prescription but it is advisable to speak with an expert before taking any of these products to improve sexual desire and performance.
DHEA
The natural form of DHEA ( dehydroepiandrosterone ) is considered an endogenous hormone, manufactured in the human body and secreted by the adrenal gland. DHEA supplements are available in capsules, tablets, gum, sublingual drops, and topical creams. The levels of this precursor of male and female sex hormones decrease as we age (starting in our 30s), hence the effectiveness of the supplement. No studies have been done on the long-term effects of DHEA but it may increase the risk of prostate, breast, ovarian, and other hormone-sensitive cancers. According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) there is “insufficient evidence” to state that it is effective against sexual dysfunction.
Yohimbina or Yumbina
The yohimbe tree ( Pausinystalia johimbe ) is known as ‘the tree of love’ . It is a perennial tree from West Africa whose bark contains a chemical called yohimbine. It is currently used as a remedy for sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction. As a dietary supplement, the dried bark is transformed into tea and administered orally. Its side effects are: hypertension, anxiety, or manic episodes.
A study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health evaluated the effect of yohimbine (up to 30 mg / day) on erection, sexual desire, arousal, and ejaculatory response. The results found no effect of yohimbine on most aspects of sexual response in sexually functional men. However, when it comes to male erectile dysfunction, 3 out of 11 men had strong positive effects. The frequency of sexual activities increased and the self-evaluation of the genital response.
Epimedium
They call it the “Chinese natural viagra” . Certainly this enhancer comes from traditional Chinese medicine. It is considered the most powerful of the vegetarian sexual tonics. Although surprisingly little is known about it in the West, this herb stimulates the nervous system, especially the nerves of the genitals. It is used primarily to arouse sexual desire, but some men take epimedium to fix sexual performance problems, including involuntary ejaculation or erectile dysfunction. In addition, it lowers high blood pressure and improves the immune system.
The University of Michigan health department reports that epimedium leaves have long been used in traditional Asian medicine for people with sexual difficulties and have been shown to increase libido in at least one study.
Catuaba and Muira puama
They are two characteristic trees of Brazil known for the medicinal properties of their bark. This is widely consumed by the natives of the northern Amazon basin. For centuries it has been used both to increase libido and to improve sexual potency. In fact, its harvest and sale have become big business throughout Brazil. Meager but existing research has supported its use as a sexual enhancer. In the studies, 51% of participants with erectile problems reported improvement, and 62% experienced an increase in libido. No toxic effects or serious adverse reactions or haematological or biochemical changes have been observed in healthy human volunteers of both sexes.
A study published by the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health states that in an experiment with 202 healthy women to treat sexual dysfunction, the efficacy of these herbs led to significantly higher mean total scores in terms of libido enhancement, frequency of sexual desire, sexual intercourse, and sexual fantasies, as well as satisfaction with sexual life, intensity of sexual desires, arousal of fantasies, ability to reach orgasm, and intensity of orgasm.
