A guest post by Nina Cornejo, Ayurvedic Practitioner
Introduction: More Than Romance
Aphrodisiacs go well beyond their name in supporting the reproductive systems and romance. They have an array of positive impacts on different parts of the body and mind. To strengthen the reproductive system's functions the other tissues must be healthy and nourished, and the mind and emotions must be balanced. In this way of supporting both mind and body, aphrodisiacs promote vitality and longevity overall. You might already include some of these aphrodisiacs in your diet and supplement routine without knowing.
How Aphrodisiacs Work
Aphrodisiacs (known as Vajikaranas in Ayurveda) get their application and potency based on their inherent natural qualities (Gunas). The qualities in Aphrodisiac substances are sweet, creamy or oily, nourishing, and heavy. Additionally, to be considered an aphrodisiac they must promote longevity and encourage a positive mind.
These qualities also directly relate to our Ojas - the sap of our life energy - the essence of our inner physiological strength. According to Ayurveda, aphrodisiacs build Ojas. Due to these qualities and the relationship with Ojas, aphrodisiacs go beyond just the reproductive system and organs. They bring strength and renewal to the deepest aspects of our entire body and physiology.
Powerful Aphrodisiacs to Elevate Your Health
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
Ashwagandha is a classic Ayurvedic herb that has gained widespread popularity in recent times. It is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body improve its stress response and supports energy, rest, and metabolism.
In men, Ashwagandha has shown the ability to combat erectile dysfunction and oligospermia (low sperm count), and promotes a healthy reproductive system. In women, Ashwagandha has been proven to enhance sexual dysfunction and arousal through the managing of stress in the body, anxiety, fatigue, and increasing testosterone levels.
As we know, stress affects all the functions of the body, and Ashwagandha helps to improve our stress responses and reduce its' negative impacts. When our bodies are under less stress, the way we respond to challenges changes. From this alteration, we can approach obstacles from a calmer place. This can help foster a positive cycle of a relaxed body supporting a relaxed mind, and vice versa.
Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus)
Shatavari in Sanskrit means "she who possesses a thousand husbands." Shatavari's name was given to it by the ancients emphasizing the herb's ability to impart strength and stamina in women. Although this fun name is only about women, Shatavari offers benefits to men as well, and in one study showed that it improved muscular strength and endurance in men when bench-pressing weights. This herb can be a great ally to support energy levels with the daily demands of modern life, something that many of us seek.
Shatavari is known as the female companion to Ashwagandha in Ayurveda. Like Ashwagandha, Shatavari is also an adaptogen. It is rejuvenating, helps prevent aging, increases immunity and longevity, and improves mental functions. This famous herb has a multitude of uses ranging from increasing breastmilk to pacifying nervous disorders and inflammation.
Both Ashwagandha and Shatavari offer stress relief, improved energy, and support immunity that is often overworked or depleted. It is important to keep in mind they do not have the same immediate effect as having a cup of coffee would, and the effects show on a more subtle level. The quality of the herb, current health condition, diet, and lifestyle, all play a part in how these supplements are received.
Cacao:
Cacao is one of the most popular aphrodisiacs and needless to say, is enjoyable to consume. It has a prominent history of being prized and sacred to the ancient Mayans and is still used today in cacao ceremonies. This sanctified food stimulates the senses, imparts energy (without a crash), and activates good-feeling chemicals in the body.
Cacao has been proven to boost circulation and brain health, increase the activity of the pleasure hormone serotonin, and carry a notably high amount of antioxidants, helping to prevent cells from being damaged. This ancient powerhouse has been shown to offer better energy, focus, and improved mood.
It must be noted that these positive effects come from cacao, and not chocolate as we typically know it. Raw cacao and high percentages of dark chocolate are where the magic lives. The chocolate that is processed and filled with additives, unhealthy oils, and excessive sugar brings effects we know to be harmful rather than helpful.
How to make a nourishing hot cocoa
It is common to use cacao in coffee substitutes as it provides energy without the same caffeine crash and dependence as coffee and offers a similar taste and texture. You can make hot cocoa at home without all the sugar and additives from store-bought hot cocoa and take in all the antioxidants from the unadulterated superfood. I find it fun to play around with how I make it, adding in other ingredients like cardamom and/or rose. Cinnamon and vanilla extract is a must for me, and it is happenstance that all four of these suggested additions are also aphrodisiacs. Sipping a cup of homemade hot cocoa is a classic way to enjoy a cozy moment.
In an emotional aspect, cacao is linked to the heart and love. Its actions on the heart, blood, and feel-good chemicals in the brain give it a special connection to our energetic heart center. We see this play out in cacao ceremonies and the mundane world with chocolates as a common romantic gift.
More Aphrodisiac Foods to Keep on Your Radar
In addition to the ones we discussed, a few other popular aphrodisiacs worth noting are garlic, avocado, saffron, figs, pomegranates, and almonds. You likely already enjoy these and have some in your kitchen.
Incorporating more aphrodisiac foods into your diet is a simple way to progress and elevate your health, especially if you are just starting to make changes to your diet and don't know where to start. Through supporting stress response, energy levels, strength, and stamina, aphrodisiacs can help us operate in a higher state mentally and physically.
by Nina Cornejo, board-certified Ayurveda Practitioner. You can reach Nina at westsidewellness.ayurveda@gmail.com.
Disclaimer: If you are pregnant, nursing, on medication, or have any other medical concerns, check with your doctor before beginning to take any new supplements.
References:
Vajikarana Properties: Charaka Samhita Online
Ashwagandha Studies:
Shatavari Overview: Banyan Botanicals
Cacao and Brain Health: PubMed Central
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