3 Ayurvedic Supplements for Sexual Wellness

Herbal supplements have increased in popularity as naturopathic medicine has gained traction in the West. Herbs used in naturopathy are often referred to as adaptogens, or plants that help the body adapt to stress. Some of these adaptogens, as an added bonus, are thought to boost sexual performance.

Despite such claims, not every herb is effective. Plants with the best track record of improving sexual health belong to an ancient form of naturopathy: Ayurvedic medicine.

What is Ayurvedic medicine?

Ayurvedic medicine, also known as Ayurveda, has roots in Indian culture and dates back thousands of years. Ayurveda attempts to prevent disease through diet and herbal remedies. The aim is to avert maladies, rather than heal after infection. Though many plants and preparations are identified in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, three are thought to represent the most potent and popular Ayurvedic cures for sexual health and general wellness.

Turmeric

Turmeric, known for its vibrant orange color and distinct flavor in food, comes from the root of the turmeric plant, and its medicinal benefits come from the active compound curcumin, a flavonoid polyphenol. Noted to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and assist in stimulating blood flow in the body, curcumin needs to be consumed with black pepper, which is reported to boost bodily absorption of curcumin by 2,000 percent. Given its properties, turmeric in some forms may help with maintaining strong erections.

Ginger

A close relative of turmeric, ginger is another root known for its pronounced spice, but it has many benefits that range beyond the kitchen. Ginger's primary asset is its antioxidant potential, followed closely by a noted ability to reduce inflammation in the body. The active compound gingerol gives ginger its strong taste and potential sexual benefits. Gingerol can help with erectile dysfunction (ED) and heart conditions because it improves blood flow throughout the body.

Ashwagandha

Perhaps the most potent of all the Ayurvedic herbs is ashwagandha, which means "like a horse," referring to the plant's odor and purported ability to increase physical strength and sexual potency. Ashwagandha is noted as a clinically proven stress reducer, specifically targeting and lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol. To a small degree, ashwagandha has also been shown to increase muscle mass, and it seems to help men regulate their testosterone, making it possibly the best herbal aphrodisiac currently available (keeping in mind the Food and Drug Administration doesn't weigh in on such matters). Ashwagandha could help improve sexual function in both men and women by regulating testosterone, which is associated with an increase in libido and genital stimulation.

These three most potent Ayurvedic herbs represent an alternative form of sexual wellness, one reliant on natural remedies to cure sexual ailments. These plants have a medicinal history that can be traced through the millennia and may be able to provide real benefits appealing to individuals looking to improve their libido, circulation or testosterone levels.

Giddy Notice: Our medical experts have informed us that few supplements of this nature have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That is to say, statements and claims made about the efficacy or possible health benefits of these unapproved supplements have neither been evaluated nor reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness. Furthermore, any statements or claims regarding the supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease. Our medical experts advise that before you use a supplement in any way, first consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you have full knowledge of appropriate dosages, if any, as well as any potential side effects or interactions with any prescription medications you're already taking.