In love with aphrodisiacs

Falling in love with Falling in love with Aphrodisiacs

by Carissa Wills-DeMello

The elusive aphrodisiacs – everything from oysters to chocolate boast the moniker.

But do they really exist? If so, how do they work? And where can I get my hands on them?! This is when an understanding of the way that plants work in our bodies can really come in handy. From the common to the exotic, there are many herbs that have an aphrodisiac quality to them. Kimberly Gallagher, author of Aphrodisiac: The Herbal Path to Healthy Sexualual Fulfillment and Vital Living defines an aphrodisiac plant as one that “cultivates and amplifies the flow of erotic source energy to fuel your vitality, ignite your creativity, and heighten your sexual fulfillment.”

Our sexual energy is our vital force, and as living beings, plants are key to stimulating, nourishing, and maintaining that vital force throughout our lives. It is that vital force that helps us create – whether that is sexually, or through art, music, dance, gardening. It’s within each of us regardless of age, gender, or relationship status. We could all use the gentle, igniting power of aphrodisiac herbs in our lives, not only on Valentine’s Day but on the other 364 days, too. So light a candle, put on some sultry tunes, and let’s explore aphrodisiacs! G

Ginger + cacao: circulatory stimulants

For any vital organ to work well, circulation is key. That is especially true of our sexual organs, which require the healthy flow of blood to enliven them! Ginger is a warming herb that enhances the “fire” in the body which invigorates our reproductive system. It literally “brings the heat,” earning a strong reputation for bringing circulation to the pelvic area. Cacao on the other hand, while not fiery in the same way, is an energetically warming herb. It’s full of antioxidants that gently support circulation by dilating our vasculature. We don’t need to get too creative here; enjoy chocolate by reaching for an organic brand, extra dark.

Oat tops + marshmallow: tissue nourishers

Just as we need the vibrant flow of blood throughout our body to feel enlivened, we also need tissues that can respond to this healthy blood flow. We want to feel like flowing springs, not arid deserts, if you get my drift! Queue the “mucilaginous” herbs. Mucilage is a plant compound that sounds yucky and feels anything but. It’s a slippery nutrient that soothes, nourishes, and hydrates our tissues. Sounds nice, right? Oat tops specifically work to nourish frayed nerves and remediate exhaustion. With stress a major culprit of sexual havoc, oat tops are miraculous. Marshmallow on the other hand specifically nourishes our reproductive system. It has an affinity for all along the urinary tract right down to the genitals, bringing moisture to the membranes that need it most. To best access that juicy mucilage, enjoy oat tops and marshmallow in a tea steeped for at least 15 minutes.

Rose + lemon balm: heart openers

Anyone in any sort of relationship knows that “open heart” feeling that leads to better communication, connection, and vulnerability. When our hearts feel open and free, we are better able to love ourselves and others. This is both a physical experience, of having a healthy heart, and an emotional experience, of feeling emotionally safe. “When I think of receptivity and an open heart,” explains herbalist Jenny Lee of Common Roots Botanicals, “I think of lemon balm and rose. They also feel really playful, making them a sweet addition to any aphrodisiac medicine cabinet.” Rose has been known since antiquity to soften and open the heart, allowing us to receive and experience love. Lemon balm, an easyto-grow garden herb, opens our heart by uplifting our spirit and easing nervous tension. The two are easily enjoyed under the tongue as tasty glycerite extracts as needed.

Passionflower + kava: calming nerves

If there ever were two plants that banish tension and welcome ease, it’s this tropical duo. Lucky for us New Englanders, they aren’t hard to access. Just check out your local herb shop or mountainroseherbs.com. Herbalist Jenny Lee adds that “When considering herbal aphrodisiacs I think ‘relaxing and restoring.’ I think that the first step to relaxing is to be grounded in the present. Nothing does that better than roots.” Kava is a powerful calming root native to the South Pacific, used in traditional ceremonies to relax the body while awakening the mind. It’s known for supporting emotional openness and social connection, which might be just what you need for an impromptu date night. Passionflower is a prolific vine, perfect for those who struggle with obsessive thinking. It helps you release tension and settle deeply into the present moment.

Ginseng + schisandra: reproductive tonics

Scientifically speaking, a reproductive system that is healthy and nourished is foundational to sexuality. So while herbs that cultivate reproductive wellness might not fall under the list of “fun” aphrodisiacs, they certainly are indispensable when it comes to erotic vitality. Ginseng has long been turned to as a strengthener of both male and female reproductive systems. It’s specifically looked to in ancient Chinese medicine to increase sexual function and energy. Pair ginseng with schisandra for a powerful synergistic effect. Schisandra is a tonic herb known world-wide for promoting longevity. It also regulates the function of the liver which is foundational to hormone balance. Enjoy these deliciously sensual recipes to add a spark to your valentines, galentines, or any day that you’re needing to feel the love flow!

Sweet Heart Truffles

Ginger, Cacao, Kava, Rose, Cinnamon, Coconut cream (full fat), Dark Chocolate Chips Simmer one can of coconut cream on low with 2 tbsp kava root and 2 tbsp rose petals for 20 minutes, being careful not to burn. Pour hot coconut milk through a strainer over 2 cups of dark chocolate chips. Stir until melted, adding 2 tsp ginger powder and 1 tsp cinnamon powder as you mix. Add in flaxmeal, hazelnut meal, or coconut flakes for structure if you’d like. Let set in fridge for 1-2 hours. Once set, scoop out mixture rolling to form balls. Dust outside with coconut powder, cinnamon, or powdered sugar to keep from sticking. Keep refrigerated and enjoy!

Lover’s Cordial

Schisandra (1 part), Ginseng (½ part), Kava (½ part), Hibiscus Petals (1 part), Damiana Leaf (½ part) Fill a pint-sized jar a quarter of the way full with your herbs. Cover your herbs with brandy or apple cider vinegar, leaving an inch or so of space at the top. Fill the remains of the jar with maple syrup or honey. Shake well and close tightly. Steep your cordial for one month in a shady place. After that time strain out the contents and enjoy your cordial alone or as a sensual drink mixer!

Enamored Infusion

Rose Petals (2 parts), Lemon Balm (2 parts), Oat Tops (1 part) Passionflower (1 part), Marshmallow Leaf (1 part) Blend herbs and steep 1 tablespoon of blend per 8 ounces hot water. Let steep in a covered vessel for 15 minutes. Enjoy in the evening with a good scoop of local honey.