The effects of the herb are believed to be so powerful, that the Brazilian government is now conducting its own research into its effects.
The herb is available as Herbal vY for men and Herbal vX for women. It is combined with ginkgo biloba in a supplement available from Herbal Alternatives. For stockists call 01483 204 417.
Trudy Norris warns that you should not be taking any herbal preparations if you are on medication, breast feeding or are pregnant. If your problems are persistent, make an appointment to see a medical herbalist who can make a full diagnosis.
To find one in your area, contact the National Institute of Medical Herbalists on www.nimh.org.uk or call 01392 426 022. You should also make an appointment to see your GP to rule out any underlying health problems. __________________________________________
Treat each other to a tailored aromatherapy massage
Giving each other a sensual massage is one way to light your fire, but are you using the right oils for your needs?
Aromatherapist Alison Parton says that working out why your sex life is flagging is the first step in using massage to lift your libido. The reasons could be emotional or mental; such as money or family worries, stress; overwork or a pressured job, hormonal reasons or you could just be too tired.
'Essential oils work by having an effect on a certain part of the brain called the olfactory system - the section of the brain responsible for smell,' says Alison.
'It is important to work out what is wrong so you can stimulate the right part of the brain. Stimulating the wrong part with the wrong oil could make things worse.'
• For mental or emotional reasons use rose, neroli, clary sage, patchouli or ylang ylang oils. These oils are well known for their aphrodisiac qualities and will help you to feel sensual.
• For hormonal reasons use geranium oil. Geranium has long been associated with helping to regulate female gynaecological problems. It is also found in a lot of breast enhancement products because of its effect on female tissue.
• For stress, sandalwood and jasmine have a relaxing and soothing effect. Alison says, 'Both men and women respond well to sandalwood and jasmine. They have a very calming and sedative effect on the body and brain.'
• For fatigue, use a stimulating oil to awaken your senses. Black pepper and cardamom oils are the best, but be careful you do not use too much of them - they can cause urinary problems if they are not used properly.
To make you massage oils, you need to mix 10 mls of a base oil, such as sweet almond oil, with two drops of essential oil. Only use one drop if you are using black pepper or cardamom oils.
Alison recommends concentrating your massage on your partner's back. 'It is a very large area of the body so it will absorb the greatest amount of essential oils,' she says.
Your massage should last between 20 and 40 minutes and all your strokes should work towards the heart. So if you are massaging the legs, for example, work from the feet up towards the top of the legs.
For more tips on sensual massage, click on the link in the blue box above. |
