Have you been feeling unenthusiastic in the bedroom lately? We’ve got some tips to help you out
There is a wide variety of factors which can lead to a decrease in your libido, such as stress, exhaustion, anti-depressants, the menopause and contraception, to name but a few. Whatever the cause, it can be very frustrating and demoralising for both you and your partner, so we’ve come up with some natural ways to help get your sex drive back on track.
1. Red wine
A glass of red wine a day keeps a loss of libido at bay. Well, not quite, but according to a study in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, women who drank a glass of red wine daily reported higher levels of sexual desire and vaginal lubrication compared to those who occasionally sipped any kind of alcohol or those who didn’t drink at all.
Researchers believe that the high levels of the antioxidant polyphenols found in red wine may help blood vessels to widen which in turn can increase blood flow to key arousal areas. However, you should stick to one glass as more than that might extinguish your libido.
2. Yoga
Not only does yoga increase your flexibility and de-stress you, but a review published in the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy suggests that it might boost your libido too. Practising yoga makes you more familiar with your body which can help you get more in touch with your sexuality, and it may also improve your orgasms by increasing blood flow down there.
3. Herbs
Maca, a powerful Peruvian herb, is rich in plant sterols that balance and strengthen the entire hormonal system, and is well known for increasing sex drive. The supplement tribulus terrestris has a long history of supporting sexual function in both men and women, and a recent study found that women who took tribulus experienced heightened sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction. Other useful herbs include tongkat ali, nutmeg and cloves.
4. Closeness and communication
Arguing with your partner obviously isn’t going to put you in the mood for sex. For women, feeling emotional closeness is important for sexual intimacy, so unresolved conflicts and built-up resentment are likely to have a negative impact on your sexual relationship.
Acts of physical closeness, like holding hands or touching your partner, are also important. Even minor touching releases the hormone oxytocin, which can boost arousal. Spontaneity is key as unexpected excitement is what prompts your body to pump out oxytocin and other neurotransmitters linked to sexual response.
Article by
Emily McMullin
Article by
Emily McMullin
By Emily McMullin
