Natural Sex, Love and Sensuality Secrets from Around the World

Sex, Seedlings and Spirituality – Natural Healthy Sex Secrets from Antiquity and Modern Science

(Contributing OWC researchers: Julianna Bourgeois, Tom Cifelli and Jen Awdry. Reviewed by Dr. Mark Rudderham).

This article explores sex enhancing plants, foods, nutrients and other sexuality enhancing practices by region of the world. Throughout human history the issue of sexuality has been approached differently by every culture. In the East there are thousands of years of passed down herbal remedies, yogic postures, Tantric practices, and Taoist methods of cultivating sexual energies. In the West, however, the cultural attitudes vacillate throughout history, predominantly suggesting sex outside of strict circumstances is immoral, and rarely has western culture truly reflected that sexuality and sexual activity is a natural, free-flowing energetic response and interaction with fellow beings innately connected to and part of wellness and health of the body, mind and spirit. In this regard, most eastern cultures have had much healthier attitudes and societal practices and teachings about sexuality and sexual touching than has Judeo-Christian and Islamic led cultures; Judeo-Christian and Islamic cultures traditionally practice suppression of truly understanding and appreciated and being thankful for sexuality, sexual touching and the correlation of a healthy sex life to maintaining health, happiness and well being.

This article explores the most widely accepted natural methods for improving your sex and sexuality for a healthier present state of mind, body and spirit; knowing your body, being completely comfortable with your body, and sharing and celebrating it is an important component for achieving optimal health and happiness. Being able to talk openly and freely about sex is an important first step too many people, even lifelong couples in sexually confused cultures, never experience.

“Eastern” Experience and Wisdom

Let’s begin in the East, with India. The evolution of Indian culture coincides greatly with the progression of the Tantric spiritual sciences, of which yoga and Ayurvedic herbal healing are mere parts of a vast system reaching as far back as 7000 years. In Sanskrit “Tan” translates to “expansion” and “Tra” signifies “liberation”. Immersed in the collective sexual confusions of Western society, it is often stress and anxiety that obscure sexual energy.  Therefore a reawakening and rebirthing of the Sacral or sexual energy center is needed without fear of affronting our maker.

There are countless aphrodisiacs in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. These systems of healing are based primarily on the interrelationships of energetic polarities. The general goal is to create balance within an individual by complementing their energy field with foods, herbs and minerals of an opposite or lacking energy. For this reason, not all aphrodisiacs will work as effectively for all people, however, there are certain candidates that have thousands of years of time-tested and proven results and general applicability.

Red Ginseng

Panax ginseng is heated by the Sun or boiled to create Red Ginseng, which has Yang, male, heating, creative energy. Ginseng is a tonic root that improves circulation, increases blood supply, rejuvenates and aids recovery after illness, and stimulates the body. In 2002, a double-blind study of the effects of Korean red ginseng on impotence showed that it can be an effective alternative for treating erectile dysfunction. The Journal of Urology reports that the “Mean International Index of Erectile Function scores were significantly higher in patients treated with Korean red ginseng than in those who received placebo.” (1) Another study shows a connection between nitric oxide and ginsenosides, an active chemical constituent in ginseng, and its action on the central nervous system and gonads. (2) The production of nitric oxide leads to enhanced performance in men and an increase in blood flow as well as libido for both men and women. Ginseng offers stimulation and an overall increase of vitality.

Ashwaghanda

Often referred to as Indian Ginseng because of its similarities in use, Ashwaghanda translates to “the smell of a horse”, because of its strong smell, and it is said that it endows its recipients with the sexual appetite and vitality of a horse. It is often used in Ayurveda for cases of sterility and infertility. It is one of the best rejuvenating herbs for men, and promotes quantity and quality of sperm, increases blood flow,  tones the reproductive organs, and regulates hormonal functioning. It has been used for treating impotence, premature ejaculation, nocturnal emissions, enlarged prostate, and spermatorrhea. It has calming, stress-relieving qualities, and can be mixed in a preparation with other spices such as cardamom, fenugreek, ginger, and pippali, and boiled in raw cow’s milk, alternative milks, or water and sweetened for a delicious cup of stimulating tea. There is also a medicated wine called ashwagandharishta, which is prepared with many other herbs and spices, and serves as a general tonic and aphrodisiac that enters almost immediately into the bloodstream.

Gotu Kola

A Sri Lankan king named Aruna, in about 900 AD, reported using gotu kola as an aphrodisiac to keep his 50 wives happy. Gotu kola is primarily used to stimulate the circulatory system and support blood vessels and capillaries, which allows increased blood flow to the reproductive organs. It is also known to decrease cellulite and varicose veins, and is one of the primary skin tonics found in Ayurveda, because it aids collagen production, as well as carries blemish-causing toxins away. Given its nourishing effects on skin, our largest organ, it is not surprising gotu kola enhances sexual awareness and energy.

Gingko Biloba

Gingko Biloba is reported to be the oldest surviving tree on Earth, and was considered among Chinese herbalists to be a longevity plant, which restores youthful vitality to its user. It has been used for thousands of years as an aphrodisiac, and like gotu kola, works primarily on the circulatory system and microcirculation in the brain and body. Men experiencing impotence due to anti-depressant use report improvement in their sexual functioning after its use. The properties of the herb also go to work on the initial problem of depression. Women have reported improvement in their sex drives and sexual experiences as well. The properties of increased blood flow and circulation are even utilized by body builders wanting to increase blood flow to their muscles. Most people understand gingko biloba has brain and mood improvement benefits, which is the most common application in the west, but this amazing seedling delivers many more health benefits.

Horny Goat Weed

The name says it all with this herb, coming primarily from southern China, and used for thousands of years as an aphrodisiac. It contains the active ingredient icariin, which researchers are finding targets impotence more effectively then Viagra. (3) It is said to bring back to life a ‘dead’ sex drive in both men and women, and is found to be especially effective in women. It usually takes 3-4 days of use before effects of the plant are fully apparent, but seems well worth the wait!

Medicated Oils

There are many oils that can be applied directly to the genitals, and are efficient aphrodisiacs owing to either their heating or cooling properties. Natural sandalwood oil can be mixed with ginger powder or cinnamon to produce one of the greatest enhancing effects. Clove oil can be mixed with a base of either sunflower or olive oil to produce refreshing effects. These preparations serve to increase blood flow and sensitivity to sexual organs.

“Western” Contributions to Heightened Sexual Energy and Awareness

Let’s now begin a slow voyage west, beginning in the South Pacific Islands.

Kava Kava

This traditional Polynesian shrub has been used to tackle stress and anxiety by replacing them with a sense of clarity and tranquility. Its aphrodisiacal properties are so pronounced that it has been called a mild ‘herbal ecstasy’ and reportedly increases sexual desire, prowess and even sensation during orgasm. There is a slight numbing effect to the lips and tongue after drinking kava tea, and it produces a gentle euphoria and relaxed state of sociability. Its effects are generally related to alcohol consumption, but it maintains the advantage of clarity of thinking, and even promotes an increase in clarity to the point that the Fiji military used it for improved concentration and relaxation when going into battle.

Yohimbe

Yohimbe is derived from the bark of a tree, traditionally used by Bantu-speaking tribes in West Africa. The tree, which takes about 10 years to reach full height, is stripped of its bark, at which point the tree begins to die. The over-exploitation of this supplement may threaten endangerment of the species, and possible side effects of taking yohimbe may prove equally as dangerous. Traditionally it has been used as a ceremonial tool of the consecration of marriage, and certainly more than mild amounts of respect and caution were given to the consumption of the bark. The aphrodisiac effects of yohimbe stem from an alkaloid it contains; yohimbine, which relax and dilate capillaries in the penis, therefore increasing blood flow and erection. Results can last upwards of 4 hours, but with side effects like increased heart rate, insomnia, anxiety, dizziness, changes in blood pressure, nausea, and hot flashes, extreme caution should be taken if deciding to ingest yohimbe. People with kidney or liver disease, heart disease, high or low blood pressure, panic and anxiety disorders, diabetes, stomach ulcers and post-traumatic stress disorder should not take yohimbe. A great deal of research should be done ahead of time, and consumption 2-3 hours before sex is a much safer way of using the plant than daily ingestion.

South America and Mexico Jungles and Beyond

Ancient civilizations of South America and Mexico are culturally steeped in folk remedies. What follows is but a small list of some of the more popular treasures of the jungle.

Catuaba Bark

This Brazilian tree is considered an aphrodisiac and stimulant to Amazon natives, and aids also in poor memory, nervousness, and sexual dysfunction. It has been used traditionally to treat impotence, anxiety, insomnia, sciatica and neuralgia, and has no known side effects or signs of addictive potential. Being one of Brazil’s most popular aphrodisiacs, what is most startling about this plant’s history are research findings that address potential antibacterial and anti-HIV activity. (4) Experiments with treated mice showed that catuaba protected them from lethal infection of both E. coli and Staph infection, as well as preventing the HIV virus from attaching to cells. Catuaba also protected white blood cells exposed to HIV. More research is necessary, however, the benefits of this bark are vast. If only for the enhancement of the libido, it is a true treat of the jungle.

Maca

This plant, native to the Andes of Bolivia and Peru, has been traditionally used as food and as an aphrodisiac. In studies it has shown to increase sexual desire in both men and women experiencing low libido, and has reported benefits to enlarged prostrate, erectile dysfunction, and quality of sperm count and motility. Incan warriors ate maca before going into battle for increasing stamina, and it was even used as a form of tax payment to Spanish imperialists. Humans and livestock both eat maca, which suggests that the risk of consumption is minimal. U.S. toxicity studies report no toxicity levels or adverse side effects of normal doses of maca, with slight insomnia resulting only from higher doses. The benefits gained from this herb grow with consistent intake.

Damiana

This aromatic flower-producing shrub is native to southwestern Texas, Central and South America, Mexico and the Caribbean. It has been made into and tea and incense and used for its relaxing effects, and was reported by Spanish missionaries to be used by Mexican Indians as an aphrodisiac tea mixed with sugar. Studies have shown an increase of libido in male and female rats, and increased sexual activity in cases of sexual exhaustion or impotence. To date damiana is one of the most popular natural aphrodisiacs, which can be utilized in a number of ways, ranging from supplements, teas, incense, or adding it to smoke blends.

Cacao

Cacao is believed to be a natural source of phenyl ethylamine (PEA), the same feel-good chemical that the body naturally produces during moments of falling in love. It may stimulate dopamine, the feel good neurotransmitter. It has some amino acids that pass the blood brain barrier to impact mood favorably. Studies support that devouring very dark chocolate or raw cacao stimulates the same feelings in your brain as making love. Cacao also has natural stimulant attributes which can increase energy for sexual interest. The most popular dark chocolate for stimulating sexual energy combines some cayenne pepper with it.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea grows in the arctic region and shows great promise in boosting libido. Studied extensively at Columbia University, researchers have found evidence that the herb can enhance sexual desire, energy, performance, and orgasm in both men and women. Other studies suggest Rhodiola Rosea can help some men prolong stamina. And for women, Rhodiala Rosea may counteract some of the unpleasant side effects of menopause.

Botanical and Non-Botanical Sexual Energetics

This brief overview of aphrodisiac botanicals is small in comparison to the amount available. Other nutrients/herbs used to help circulation including sexual performance depending on the individual include L-arginine, 5-htp, betony, ginger, glutamic acid, NADH, DHEA, some B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc, puncture vine, saw palmetto, essential fatty acids and amino acids, and TMG. Healthy foods with sexual enhancing nutrients include oysters, caviar, fish, brown rice, sesame seeds, beans, cherries, celery, almonds, asparagus, figs, fruits, carrots, tomatoes, avacado, cheese, chili peppers, pumpkin, lavendar, cucumber, licorice, and some nuts and seeds. This article lends insight into the numerous alternatives to pharmaceutical impotence or libido enhancing therapies you should explore further, most with a wider array of potential benefits.

Non-Botanical Methods and Secrets To Healthier Sexual Attitude, Appreciation and Relationships

There also are many techniques for cultivating and harnessing sexual mood, potency and power that only require information and interpersonal willingness. Tantra is oftentimes assumed to be solely based on sexuality. While this perspective is incorrect, there is much information on the web surrounding this subject. Yoga postures that can be done on an individual basis or with your partner can significantly change the quantity and quality of energy stored and released from the sacral chakra. Tantric yoga has millennia of documentation, and effects of these postures can be felt immediately.

Mantak Chia is a Taoist master, best known for his teachings, books and instructional videos on the subject of Qigong, or life force.  He and his wife Maneewan published two books full of insight into how to cultivate sexual healing and creative power through meditations, visualizations, ovarian and testicular breathing, among many other techniques. Even skimming the chapter names should give some good ideas to any sexually avid and adventurous spirit! The titles of these are “Taoist Secrets of Love – Cultivating Male Sexual Energy” (5) and “Healing Love Through the Tao – Cultivating Female Sexual Energy”. (6) The healing power found in these books serve to create a phenomenal basis for a true revolution of one’s sexual energies to release cultural prejudice and open one to a more fulfilled and healthy sexual energy.

Conclusion

Whether we enhance our sexual experiences via botanicals, yogic postures, meditations, or entire new lifestyles altogether, it is important to realize the meaning of the enjoyment we gain from sex. It is a bridge between the heart, mind, body and spirit. It is the potential power hidden in the sexual act that lends to our compulsive relationship with it. If we enter into this realm with an open mind and heart set on experiencing for ourselves the natural beauty and extreme joy possible, we may just create that bridge connecting not only two bodies, but those bodies with spirit and improved health.

Let’s end on a lighter note with this entertaining video from down under discussing ancient culture sexual traditions and highlighting some foods and nutrients modern studies have found stimulate sexual interest.

References:

1. Hong B, Ji YH, Hong JH, Nam KY, Ahn TY. (2002). “A double-blind crossover study evaluating the efficacy of Korean red ginseng in patients with erectile dysfunction: a preliminary report”. Journal of Urology 168 (5): 20–21. doi:10.1016/S0022-5347(05)64298-X.
2. Murphy LL, Lee TJ. Ginseng, sex behavior, and nitric oxide. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2002 May;962:372-7.
3. University in Milan, Mario Dell’Agli
4. Effects of catuaba extracts on microbial and HIV infection.
   Manabe H,. Horiuchi Itaro & Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan. catuaba bark ,catuaba extractIn Vivo. 1992 Mar-Apr;6(2):161-5
5. Chia, Mantak and Winn, Michael. “Taoist Secrets of Love – Cultivating Male Sexual Energy”. Aurora Press, 1984. ISBN 0943358191.
6. New Edition. Healing Love through the Tao. Cultivating Female Sexual Energy. By (author) Mantak Chia. ISBN-13: 978-1-59477-068-5.

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