|
Ashwagandha
root
(Withania somnifera) *
|
A traditional
Ayurvedic medicinal plant, Ashwagandha is considered one of the best
tonic remedies of India. It is an adaptogen and nervine used to
reduce stress and stimulate libido and male reproductive
functioning. Ashwagandha also has antispasmodic activity and is
useful for fibromyalgia and arthritic pain.
|
|
He Shou Wu
root
(Polygonum multiflorum) * |
Also known
incorrectly as Fo Ti, is an important Chinese tonic herb. It
nourishes the Chinese kidney, liver and blood (xue). It is used to
stimulate male reproductive function, improve sports performance,
stimulate liver and bowel function and lower cholesterol levels. |
|
Red Ginseng
root
(Panax ginseng) *
|
The best known
and researched adaptogenic herb in the world, Ginseng is used to
improve immune function, decrease cortisol (an adrenal hormone)
production and normalize overactive stress response. It increases
physical and mental performance and benefits prostate function.
|
|
Cynomorium
herb
(Cynomorium songaricum) * |
Or suo yang is
used in TCM to tonify the kidney yang, especially in men with
impotence, low back pain, and lack of libido. It is also used for
infertility in women and for deficient yin constipation.
|
|
Muira Puama
root
(Ptychopetalum olacoides) * |
Is from a
South American tree that is used as an aphrodisiac and CNS
stimulant. Also known as Potency Wood, this herb stimulates libido
and pelvic circulation without the adverse responses that sometimes
occur with Yohimbe. It is used for impotence, neuralgia, dyspepsia,
diarrhea, and rheumatic pain. |
|
Epimedium herb
(Epimedium grandiflorum) * |
Or yin yang
huo is also known as lustful sheep plant or horny goat weed. Both
names are obvious references to it’s ability to enhance libido. In
clinical studies this herb has been shown to be effective for low
sperm count and low testosterone levels, as well as treating
neurasthenia, chronic bronchitis, arthritis, and neutropenia.
|
|
Bibliography: |
Chen, J., Chen,
T., Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology, Art of
Medicine Press, 2004
Green, J. The Male Herbal, Freedom, CA, 1991
Kuhn, M., Winston, D., Herbal Therapy and Supplements: A
Scientific and Traditional Approach, Lippincott
Sivarajan, V. V. and Balachandran, I. Ayurvedic Drugs and Their
Plant Sources, New Delhi,
1994
Winston, D., Herbal Therapeutics, Specific Indications for Herbs
& Herbal Formulas, HTRL, 8th ed., 2003 |
|
*Herbal
Therapeutics Research Library
Author: David Winston (RH) AHG
©2007
Herbal Therapeutics Research Library. All rights reserved |
Disclaimer: The information on
historical, ethnobotanical and phytotherapeutic uses of herbs and
traditional formulas contained herein is based on the experience and
research of the author. It is not intended as a substitute for
consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Any
attempt to diagnose and treat an illness should be done under the
direction of a health care professional. The publisher and author
are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences
resulting from the use of any of the information discussed. Should
you have any questions concerning the appropriateness of any
preparation mentioned, the author strongly suggests consulting a
professional health care advisor. |