Ancient Natural Aphrodisiacs, List of Superfoods, Part I

Cistanche stem (Cistanche deserticola) is a desert plant that grows in dry arid regions of Asia and the Middle East.

It is long revered in many countries of the Orient as one of the powerful ancient natural aphrodisiacs and tonic herbs for enhancing libido and virility.

Most famously known as the "stalk enlarger", it follows the "Doctrine of Signatures" with very phallic stem, piercing through desert soils in a straight upright position.

Renowned mostly as a male Yang energizer, it is attributed to be one of the reasons for the legendary Genghis Khan's famed sexual prowess and the fathering of many children in his lifetime.

Prepared extracts concentrate the main phenylethanoid glycosides like the ECHINACOSIDES and ACTEOSIDES.

For best results and the most revitalizing effects, it is generally consumed daily over a longer period of time rather than in doses that are less frequent.

Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia), or also known as "longjack" or "pasak bumi", is a prized male tonic especially well-known for its potential libido-enhancing impact.

Longjack is a small, exotic shrub-like tree native to Malaysia and regions of Indonesia, sometimes referred to as "Malaysian Viagra". It is the long, deep roots of the plant that have been utilized in traditional folk remedies and now in modern-day powdered extracts for their potent therapeutic value at improving sexual functions.

It is often a top recommended choice for middle-aged men (around 50 or older) experiencing andropause, a life phase that is defined by age-related libido decline attributed to lower testosterone levels.

The roots of tongkat ali contain a group of peptides called EURYPEPTIDES that work to maintain healthy hormone levels rather than directly boosting testosterone production.

There are, unfortunately, many "counterfeit" longjack products and formulas taking advantage of the "male libido-enhancing" supplement market.

Quality products are very concentrated and currently, Lost Empire Herbs and Dragon Herbs are the only two suppliers we recommend and use with positively tested results.

Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum), also called tulsi, is related to the culinary basil family (Ocimum basilicum) but is an ancient Ayurvedic rasayana herb known in India for its stress-reducing influence.

It is especially beneficial to women as it is calming to anxiety yet acts as a natural energy stimulant. It most importantly increases blood flow to the genitalia, improving libido and feelings of pleasure.

As an adaptogen, it supports hormone balance and benefits cortisol reduction, two aspects that can help females "get in the mood for love".

Traditionally, fresh or dried leaves of the plant are prepared as a tea infusion, which can be served hot or cold. It makes a refreshing iced tea in the summer months, helping to revitalize and nourish the female system.

Horny goat weed  (Epimedium grandiflorum), often referred to as epimedium, has a long-standing tradition as an aphrodisiac in Chinese herbalism for its energizing libido-enhancing qualities.

It is a perennial low-growing herbaceous plant that first got its legendary reputation when increased copulation and fertility was observed among domesticated goats after consuming it.

The main active prenylated flavonoid constituent found responsible for this effect is called ICARIIN. Horny goat week or epimedium is also believed to provide erectogenic properties that likewise support male ED. 

In TCM, it goes by the name Yin Yang Huo and is considered tonifying to Yang, especially in regard to the kidneys and increasing the flow of Chi (Qi), promoting healthy circulation and physical vitality.

Other compounds like phytoestrogens icaritin and desmethylicaritin are a few reasons why plant extracts may also work for female stimulation.

Chocolate and the cacao beans (Theobroma cacao) they are made from are one of the great worldwide ancient natural aphrodisiacs of all time, often associated with love and passion in the bedroom.

This is because pure cacao contains chemical compounds like PEA (phenylethylamine) and THEOBROMINE, which are stimulants that induce feelings of excitement and euphoria.

Cacao beans are also high in TRYPTOPHAN, a mood-boosting neurotransmitter that triggers DOPAMINE release, helping to open the heart and promote pleasurable sensory experiences.

While chocolate comes in many forms, the least processed dark chocolate with a greater percentage of cacao content is best for its benefits to increase desire and arousal.

Famous as a "male tonic herb", Panax ginseng has been used for centuries as a natural aphrodisiac for improving sexual energies and supporting stamina in men.

Containing triterpene saponins called GINSENOSIDES, root teas, tinctures and extracts act as ADAPTOGENS to help to foster endocrine functions, protect against stress-induced low libido and allow the body to relax, feel pleasure and improve sexual endurance.

Among many of its properties, Panax ginseng supports strong Chi (Qi) energy according to Chinese herbalism. Thus, it is widely utilized for encouraging blood flow into the sex organs and strengthening physical staying power.

Fresh garlic (Allium sativum), and its hot and pungent quality can promote a stimulating influence and open the circulatory channels.

Garlic acts as an aphrodisiac primarily due to the compound known as ALLICIN which is responsible for increasing blood circulation. Allicin helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, which are key factors for healthy sexual arousal and erectile functioning.

In Ayurveda, the consumption of garlic and other Allium vegetables, are claimed to have a "rajasic energy" known to encourage sexual passions (or Rajas).

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) is a medicinal mushroom species and a top tonic for increasing one's sex drive. It has been utilized by the people of Tibet, Nepal and China for hundreds of years.

It is a major Jing Tonic offering a revitalizing influence on the sex glands and reproductive system in both men and women.

The main active compound in cordyceps is CORDYCEPIN, which holds powerful adaptogenic properties that help to build Chi and "activate life energies".

For supplemental use, its often consumed as a powder or liquid extract.

Maca root (Lepidium meyenii) is a hardy turnip-like tuber native to the highlands of the Peruvian Andes in South America.

Sometimes loosely referred to as "nature's answer to Viagra" or "Peruvian Ginseng", maca's traditional folk uses are well-known for its libido-influencing attributes.

Prepared maca powder is a top 10 superfood reported to foster reproductive functions in both men and women, but is historically specific to male sexual health and stamina. This quality is also backed by renowned legends of Incan warriors using maca to build muscle and promote strong sexual virility.

Maca is commonly available as a raw or gelatinized powder or encapsulated for convenience if you don't prefer the strong malty flavor.

Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris), also known as gokshura in Ayurveda and Bai Ji Li in Chinese herbalism, is a low-growing herb that exists in warmer temperate climate zones throughout the world.

The thorny fruits of the plant have been highly valued in certain countries for different therapeutic purposes, one of which is as a sexual rejuvenator.

While it is traditionally considered beneficial for liver health, it also has adaptogenic properties and is valued as a nourishing kidney tonic for its influence on the genitourinary and reproductive systems.

Bulgarian tribulus is the primary one used in the supplement world for its higher amounts of FOROSTANOL SAPONINS and PROTODIOSCIN, the main steroidal constituents in the herb responsible for its benefits as a natural aphrodisiac. Most herbal extracts are standardized to contain about 40% or more saponin content.