Saturday, July 28, 2007

Damiana and other herbs

The herb damiana has its fans and detractors alike. It has a certain folkloric reputation as a sex-enhancer, but it's unclear from research whether its reputation is deserved. However, herbalist Michael A. Weiner, Ph.D., author of Herbs that Heal, says that it's the safest of herbs reputed to have aphrodisiac qualities—so you can probably try it relatively risk-free.
Chasteberry, also known as vitex agnus castus (from which the homeopathic dilution is made), apparently boosts the body's progesterone production and normalizes reproductive hormones, specifically the estrogen/progesterone ratio (also implicated in PMS).
If serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, such as Prozac or Zoloft, are at the root of your diminished sex drive, and it isn't possible for your doctor to change your prescription or dosage levels, Adriane Fugh-Berman, M.D., suggests taking 40 mg. of ginkgo in standardized extracts three times a day to help counter-act the libido-lowering effects. Saw palmetto, traditionally thought of to assist men with prostate problems, may also serve to increase circulation to the genital area.
Other herbal possibilities include muira puama, sarsaparilla, fo-ti, gotu kola, guarana, and honey. Where mild depression is an issue, st. John's wort, kava kava or valerian. Yohimbe and Horny Goal weed shows some promise; but proceed with caution—some experts endorse it only reluctantly because of various health and safety concerns.

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