Best Herbs to Boost Libido During Menopause
Why introduce synthetic hormones into your body when your low libido can be treated naturally? In recent years, more and more women have turned to herbs to treat their low libido and other menopausal symptoms which are caused by hormonal imbalances. But which herbs are best for getting you back under the covers with your partner? Read on to find out.
How Do Herbs For Menopause Work?
Herbs contain a combination of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fiber that help ward off diseases and promote your immune system. Additionally, many of the herbs for menopause contain phytoestrogens, plant-based estrogens that mimic the effect of naturally-occurring estrogen, a female hormone important in regulating a wide range of sexual functions, from menstruation to libido. Phytoestrogens work to restore hormone balance by blocking estrogen when levels are high and acting as a replacement for estrogen when levels are low. Here are 3 popular herbs you can try when suffering from low libido:
1. Chasteberry (Vitex Agnus Castus)
Don’t be fooled by the name � chasteberry, often used in conjunction with the herb dong quai, can actually boost your libido. The herb helps to correct hormone imbalance by increasing progesterone levels in the body. It also increases dopamine levels in the brain to lift your spirits and get you feeling sexy again.
2. Red Ginseng
Ginseng contains both phytoestrogens and ginsenosides, compounds which increase stamina and energy levels in humans. Because ginseng can be used as a stimulant in the female body, it is often used to treat low libido, which is sometimes caused by irritability or fatigue.
3. Macafem
The only non-estrogenic herb on the list, Macafem contains a special selection of Lepidium meyenii, an herb which is rich in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, fatty acids and fiber. Macafem works to treat hormone imbalance by encouraging the body’s own natural production of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and other sex hormones. Added benefits of Macafem are that it increases energy and boosts mood, two factors that can interfere with your sex drive.
Recommendation:
You should always consult with a doctor before introducing any herbal supplement into your daily lifestyle. While herbal supplements are generally considered a safe and natural alternative to HRT or bioidentical hormones, long-term studies have not been undertaken to determine their side effects. Click here to read more about herbs for menopause.
Sources:
• Studd, John. “Loss of Libido and Menopause”. The Management of Menopause. Annual Review 1998. Partenon Publishing.
• Channon L.D and Ballinger S.E. “Some Aspects of Sexuality and Vaginal Symptoms during Menopause and their Relation to Anxiety and Depression”. British Journal of Medical Psychology. June 1986. 59 (2): 173-80.
