Ginkgo Biloba

After 12 months that have brought unique challenges to everyone, a little TLC is going to count extra this Valentine’s Day. With even Cupid in lockdown, we share four natural aphrodisiacs for stirring all the right spirits. Pucker up!


A naughtier way to nibble…

Forget choccies, oysters and definitely choccy oysters. If you are looking for aphrodisiacs that actually work, a growing body of research says you should peer inside Mother Nature’s herbal larder.

With no Cupid to shoot his amorous arrows this Valentine’s Day (he’s in lockdown too), we look at four natural aphrodisiacs that, according to some studies, will get you revved up and raunchy in all the right ways. Added bonus: none of the synthetic stuff you get with man-made medicines that are designed to enhance sexual function.

Flying solo this year? No sweat. The items that made our list are bursting with phytonutrients and adaptogens to help raise energy, boost mental sharpness and maintain circulatory balance. Perfect for giving yourself a little lift. You deserve it.


Remember to consult your doctor first

As with many herbal supplements, it’s best to consult your GP before committing to a new regime. Certain supplements, for example, are not recommended if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking blood-thinning medication.

Okay, let’s dive in.

1. Maca powder: for doe-eyed desire

Paul McCartney. There’s a man who knew how to make lovers swoon with his tunes. But who needs Macca power when you have maca powder? Dubbed the ‘Peruvian Viagra’, maca is a sweet root vegetable that grows in the mountains of central Peru. Studies have found it may increase female libido, male libido and erectile function. Regarded as an adaptogen and superfood, maca is also thought to increase energy and mental performance.

Mix one level teaspoon of maca powder with your smoothies, juices or porridge in the morning. Or try our vegetarian-friendly capsules.

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2. Ginkgo biloba: for a treat below the sheets

Dust off your party pants and say hello to ginkgo biloba: here to help you enjoy some memorable – ahem – how’s your father, compliments of Mother Nature. Studies indicate that it helps to relax blood vessels and achieve the Big O by increasing blood flow to all the right places. Nudge, nudge; gink, gink.

Take one ginkgo biloba tablet daily with food.

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3. Tribulus: for firing up the hanky-panky hormones

If you’ve ever doubted flower power, look no further than Tribulus terrestris. Studies have indicated that this tropical flowering plant can boost testosterone and erectile function in men. A separate study found associations with increased sexual desire and function in both men and women. And we’re not done yet. This Ayurvedic herb is also thought to improve sports performance. Tribulus? Tremendous.

Take two Tribulus capsules daily.

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4. Ginseng: for getting in the saucy zone

A staple in Chinese medicine, ginseng is used to soothe a variety of ailments. But did you know that it’s also thought to boost libido and sexual function in both men and women? Separate studies have indicated that ginseng may also help with arousal during the menopause as well as erectile function. Beyond that? Ginseng is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, associated with a wealth of health benefits including improved brain function, a more robust immune system and increased energy.

Try steeping a tablespoon of chopped ginseng root in hot water for 45 minutes. Drink two ginseng teas daily.

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Thanks for reading! Whether you are a Valentine’s Day lover or loather, we hope you have a great day on 14th February.

Psst! Looking for Valentine’s gift ideas? Our soaps, body and bath oils, and aromatherapy gift sets are flying out of the door!


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