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Showing posts with label Aphrodisiacs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Aphrodisiacs. Show all posts

Sunday, 5 May 2013

Artichoke - This Aphrodisiac Can Lower Your Cholesterol

This Ancient Aphrodisiac Can Lower Your Cholesterol

May 3, 2013

Artichokes cholesterol levelsDid you know?

The artichoke is actually a flower that hasn’t bloomed. And you can make tea from it. Boil whole artichokes for 20 minutes. Then let them steep for another 20 minutes. Remove the artichokes from the pot. Pour the remaining liquid into a pitcher, add a little honey, and you have a liver-cleansing tonic. It keeps your hair, nails, and skin looking beautiful too.

It was prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans as a delicacy and aphrodisiac. But this funny-looking flower bud has a new niche these days…

It works like a statin to lower cholesterol levels. Italian researchers tested an extract of the plant on overweight people with high cholesterol. After eight weeks,1 the extract decreased their total cholesterol and “bad” LDL levels. Even more significant…it simultaneously increased their “good” HDL cholesterol levels.

A German study got even better results. Participants improved their cholesterol ratios after only six weeks. Their total cholesterol levels dropped 18.5 percent.2 Their LDL cholesterol decreased by 22.9 percent. Their LDL to HDL ratios decreased 20 percent.

And unlike statins, the extract had no adverse effects.

What’s the funny-looking—yet delicious—plant that can lower cholesterol in six weeks?

The artichoke.

We’ve told you before how dangerous statins are. We’ve warned you how they have been found to cause calcification.3 The very thing they are supposed to prevent.

Cynarin—the active phytonutrient in artichokes—is an effective natural statin. It lowers total cholesterol levels and balances HDL and LDL levels to a healthy ratio.

Like a statin, cynarin inhibits the liver’s ability to produce LDL—the “bad” cholesterol. It raises HDL—the “good” cholesterol. It allows proper blood flow without plaque buildup.

The leaf of the artichoke plant contains the highest concentration of cynarin. Eating the artichoke plant not only provides cynarin, it’s also high in fiber. And it helps maintain healthy digestion and liver function. One way to get all those benefits is by steaming the whole artichoke and eating the “meat” from the leaves.

But don’t be confused by the Jerusalem artichoke. That one is actually a root. So make sure you always pick globe artichokes. However, the leaf extract will give you the greatest benefit. You can find artichoke leaf extract at your local health food store.

Balancing your cholesterol ratios and lowering the overall number is vital to protecting your heart. High cholesterol is one of the leading culprits in stroke and heart disease. Artichoke will keep your cholesterol levels healthy. And it may just keep heart disease at bay.

References:
1 http://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22746542
2 http://altmedicine.about.com/od/highcholesterol/a/highcholesterol.htm
3 http://institutefornaturalhealing.com/2012/09/new-research-shows-this-deadly-drug-is-even-worse-than-we-knew/

Related Articles:

http://institutefornaturalhealing.com/2013/05/this-ancient-aphrodisiac-can-lower-your-cholesterol

Friday, 12 April 2013

Maca Benefits for Various Health Conditions



Maca Benefits: A Super Herb That’s Been Used to Heal a Variety of Health Conditions

The Peruvian herb, maca, is not only one of the best known natural aphrodisiacs, but is also highly beneficial to your health…



Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a hearty root vegetable belonging to the radish family, grows in the high Andean plateaus of Peru. It has gained the reputation of being a super herb in recent years, and the benefits of maca have been used for over 2,000 years to heal a variety of health conditions.

It is best known for its ability to enhance fertility and libido. Even before the Spanish conquistadors colonized the Inca Empire in the 16th century, the Incas had already been using maca for a multitude of health reasons.

In 1960, Gloria Chacon de Popovici, Ph.D., a Peruvian biologist, isolated the 4 alkaloids responsible for maca’s reputed positive effect on hormonal issues such as hot flashes, fatigue, mood swings, memory loss — and even male impotence.

Maca’s reputation for restoring physical strength and libido has caused many a South American to nickname it “Spanish Viagra.” [Note: Maca bears no resemblance to, nor does it have any association with, the trademarked drug after which it is nicknamed.]

Throughout its long history of therapeutic use, maca has been shown to provide the following health benefits:
  • It is a powerful natural aphrodisiac and libido-enhancer that also promotes reproductive health. The journal Plant Science reported that when maca was used in a reproductive health study, it increased the sperm count in male test subjects in just 2 weeks!
  • It alleviates the symptoms of menopause and PMS. Indian women use it to treat menopausal symptoms, and Peruvian women have used it for years to encourage fertility and treat pre- and post-menstrual problems. Maca’s calcium, silica and magnesium content helps prevent bone loss that may accompany menopause-induced osteoporosis.
  • It boosts energy levels and aids in athletic performance.
  • Maca contains glucosinolate and fibers that help prevent certain forms of cancer. Its fatty acid content helps strengthen the body’s immune system, thereby enabling to body to fight cancer.
  • It promotes mental clarity. Researchers have given maca to students before tests to improve students’ test scores.
  • Maca is an adaptogen. As such, it increases the body’s resistance to stress, trauma, anxiety and fatigue.
  • It is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients that support optimum health and longevity.
  • Because of its high iron content, it has been shown to be beneficial for those who suffer from anemia.
  • Maca contains terpenoids and saponins which give it the ability to relieve pain, act as expectorant, sedative and analgesic — and even lower cholesterol levels.
In Peru, maca is usually eaten like a potato, boiled and used in pudding, jams and drinks. Everywhere else, maca is more readily available at health food stores and from online retailers as a powder that can be conveniently added to food or drinks. Maca is also available in the form of capsules or liquid extract, both of which can be self-administered as dietary supplements.

http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/maca-benefits-for-health-conditions

Thursday, 11 April 2013

Indian Spice ... Fenugreek ... Increases Male Libido Naturally

Indian Spice Works Wonders in the Bedroom to Increase Male Libido Naturally
 

According to a new study, leaves from the fenugreek plant can increase male libido naturally.
Fenugreek is a strong herb that grows in the Mediterranean. It’s great for spicing up Indian curries and other items…including our sex lives.

Researchers found that men taking fenugreek can boost their sex drive by at least 25%. The study authors say that compounds called saponins inside the fenugreek seed stimulate production of male sex hormones, including testosterone.
The Washington Post reported on the study in June 2011:

Over the centuries, foods such as asparagus, almonds, and bananas have been called aphrodisiacs, but few have survived the rigors of clinical studies. Fenugreek can now boast it has.

In the study, 60 healthy men age 25 to 52 took an extract of the herb twice a day for 6 weeks, according to the Daily Mail. The men were required to answer a survey describing their level of libido and desire with a special scoring system to analyze changes.

By the end of the 6 weeks, the increase male libido levels had soared, of those men who had swallowed fenugreek. It went from an average of 16.1 to 20.6, a 28 per cent rise. Men taking dummy pills saw their scores fall.
Fenugreek isn’t just for men. It’s also been shown effective as a natural aphrodisiac, to increase female libido and lessen the effect of hot flashes, mood fluctuations, and other common symptoms of menopause and PMS.

increase male libidoIn India and China, fenugreek is used for:
    • Arthritis
    • Asthma
    • Bronchitis
    • To improve digestion
    • To maintain a healthy metabolism
    • Increase male libido naturally and male potency
    • Skin problems (wounds, rashes and boils)
    • Sore throat
    • Acid reflux

Recent studies show fenugreek might help lower cholesterol. It’s also been shown to reduce blood glucose, which means it could be beneficial for both type 1 and 2 diabetes. The herb is currently being studied for its cardiovascular benefits. Plus, applied topically, it’s an effective treatment for hair loss.

That’s a long list of potent health benefits packed into one spicy plant!


Read more: http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/fenugreek-increase-male-libido-naturally

Wednesday, 10 April 2013

How Ginseng & Saffron Can Boost Your Sex Drive



How Natural Aphrodisiacs Ginseng and Saffron Can Boost Your Sex Drive

Your day-to-day life can eat up your time and attention so much so that certain aspects – such as your sex life – can get put on the back burner. Over time, your sex drive may begin to lag due to stress, exhaustion or even poor health.

Relationships rely on the intimacy and connection that sex provides. When you want to add some sizzle in the bedroom…you don’t have to turn to pharmaceutical drugs. Natural aphrodisiacs– food and drinks that boost sexual desire – can give you that “little something extra” without the harmful side effects of drugs.

Why Try A Natural Aphrodisiac?


All aphrodisiacs – natural and synthetic – affect your body on a chemical level by lowering stress, improving blood flow and causing certain areas of your brain to “wake up.”

These chemical and hormonal changes in your arousal reflex are the first step to activating a healthy sex life.

In a recent study done by the University of Guelph, ginseng and saffron were the clear winners at boosting the human sex drive naturally and effectively.

Department of Food Science professor, Massimo Marcone, has this to say about the study:

“Aphrodisiacs have been used for thousands of years all around the world, but the science behind the claims has never been well understood or clearly reported. Ours is the most thorough scientific review to date.”

Professor Marcone and research assistant John Melnyk worked to either confirm or debunk the many claims of natural aphrodisiacs by reviewing the hundreds of human sex drive studies that have been completed over the last two decades.

natural aphrodisiacsTheir findings, which will be published in the Food Research International journal, focus on natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals commonly prescribed for sexual dysfunction – such as Viagra and Cialis – which can cause extreme side effects, including headaches, muscle pain and in some cases heart attack.

These drugs artificially treat erectile dysfunction but have no effect on experiencing low sex drive due to physical or mental conditions.

This is of particular importance to women suffering from low sex drive. Pharmaceuticals intended to treat erectile dysfunction rarely have any benefit for women sufferers.

Which Natural Aphrodisiacs Are Most Effective?


Boost Sex Drive and Stamina

Ginseng was the clear winner in the Guelph study – followed closely by saffron. It improves sex drive and performance. Garlic was also found to improve sexual stamina because it is high in the compound allicin, which increases blood flow.

Improve Blood Flow and Safely Increase Heart Rate

A bit of fresh chopped basil or ground cardamom has been found to improve blood flow and increase heart rate. Sprinkling cardamom – which is also anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial – in chai tea or soups adds a deliciously unique flavor to your food. Coconut water is packed with vitamins – particularly vitamin C, which has also been linked to improved blood flow.

Raise Your Body Temperature

Cinnamon, nutmeg, coriander, chili peppers and ginger heat up your body and help increase the natural sex drive response. These spices also help regulate blood sugar, which prevents feelings of lethargy and tiredness. Peppers stimulate the brain to release endorphins that make you feel good from the inside out and tap into raising your sexual desire.

Stimulate Hormone Production with Zinc

Pine nuts and oysters contain very high concentrations of zinc, an essential compound for the production of testosterone. Raw honey also contributes to testosterone and estrogen hormone production, making it beneficial for both sexes. Buy raw, organic honey from local sources whenever possible.

Fatty Acids for Testicular Health

The Aztecs used avocado as an aphrodisiac to improve testicular health. The vitamins, minerals and healthy fats found naturally in avocados are especially beneficial to your heart. In fact, increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet has been linked to better overall heart health and sexual function.

Higher Libido with Chocolate

A single square of 70% cacao dark chocolate stimulates your brain to produce the chemical dopamine – the “feel good” hormone that affects your mood – and causes your body to release the same chemicals it releases during sex.
 
Increase Female Arousal

Vanilla is a natural nerve stimulant which assists in arousal and is especially effective for women.

Pomegranates and aniseeds are believed to increase female genital blood flow which directly impacts sexual desire.

Natural Attraction

The two primary compounds in celery – androsterone and adrostenol – have been shown to attract the opposite sex and make you more physically attractive. The scent of almonds is also considered a sexual attractant.

Understanding the Complexity of the Female Sex Drive

Dr. Mark A. Moyad with the University of Michigan Medical Center stated that only 20% of women experience orgasm regularly and 30% of women admit to problems such as low sex drive, sexual arousal and reaching orgasm.

Dr. Moyad states that lifestyle changes are the key to achieving sexual satisfaction. A nutritious diet and regular exercise are the first step, but here are three solutions you might not have considered.

3 Easy Steps to a Happier Sex Life
  1. A supplement containing Panax ginseng, ginkgo biloba, and l-arginine could have a positive effect on female arousal, response and orgasm within four weeks – even for premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
  2. Massage oil that warms the genitalia during application increases blood flow and nerve response. Always test warming oils before applying.
  3. Adequate lubrication is key to sexual response since pain during sex is one of the most frequent complaints from women. A water- or silicone-based lubricant prevents chafing and extends sexual activity without discomfort.
If you are experiencing on-going sexual apathy and natural aphrodisiacs – or even pharmaceutical drugs – aren’t helping: talk to your doctor! Though the topic is uncomfortable, doctors are well-versed in the connection between mental and physical aspects of sexual dysfunction.

Low sex drive could be a result of medications you’re taking, a drop in hormone production, stress, or even undiagnosed diabetes.

Don’t give up. A healthy sex life with your partner is crucial to your mental, emotional and physical well-being.


http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/natural-aphrodisiacs-ginseng-saffron-increase-sex-drive

Tuesday, 13 December 2011

5 Natural Aphrodisiacs To Help Set The Mood

By Ashley Henshaw

Published November 8, 2011


If you want to spend some intimate time with your partner, why not use an aphrodisiac to help get things going? For centuries, aphrodisiacs have been utilized to help set the mood in certain situations. In this article, you'll find some of the best natural aphrodisiacs and how they help get you and your partner revved up


How Aphrodisiacs Work

First, it's important to understand just what an aphrodisiac is. Aphrodisiacs increase sexual desire by creating chemical reactions within the body. One common mistake is to assume that drugs like Viagra are aphrodisiacs. These drugs improve performance and stamina, but not sexual desire.

Because a person's sex drive is driven by hormones, regardless of sex, it's essential that aphrodisiacs alter these hormone levels in the body. There are certain foods, herbs and supplements which appear to stimulate the production of hormones associated with libido. These products are known as aphrodisiacs because they have the potential to increase sexual desire for the person who consumes them.

At this time, there is no scientific research to confirm the aphrodisiac effect of certain products. In fact, natural aphrodisiacs are not approved or confirmed by the FDA, largely because libido is a very difficult thing to study. However, there are many people who are convinced that these items do have a significant impact on sexual desire.


The Best Natural Aphrodisiacs

Fortunately, some of the most popular aphrodisiacs are natural foods and ingredients that you can easily find in your local supermarket. Give these natural aphrodisiacs a try to see if they give your sex life a boost:


1. Oysters

Perhaps the most well-known natural aphrodisiac is the oyster. This type of seafood is strongly associated with sex for several reasons. The opened oysters resemble female genitalia, and the smooth, slippery feeling of the oysters in one's mouth is said to be quite sensual in itself. On a chemical level, the significant amount of zinc in oysters could increase the production of testosterone, which in turn increases sex drive. Oysters may also boost the production of dopamine thanks to the fact that they contain a nutrient called tyrosine. These heightened levels of dopamine may also increase libido.


2. Nutmeg

Some of the uses of nutmeg come in handy when you want to increase your sex drive. For instance, nutmeg may increase blood flow by stimulating the circulatory system and act as a mild painkiller. Studies have shown that while the effects on humans are inconclusive at this point, nutmeg has been shown to increase the mating behaviors of mice. A dangerous trend that has emerged in recent years is sniffing nutmeg to get high. Doctors strongly discourage this practice as it is very dangerous to your health.


3. Chocolate

It's no surprise that many people buy chocolate for their lovers. Chocolate has long been coined an aphrodisiac and is strongly associated with love and sex in American culture. This sweet treat has been shown in several studies to improve overall mood and relieve stress, so it's association with an increased sex drive does make sense. If you want to try chocolate as a natural aphrodisiac, give dark chocolate a try; this type of chocolate contains phenylethylamine, which could improve your mood, increase your serotonin levels and give you a kick of caffeine.


4. Mead

This fermented drink, which is crafted from a mixture of honey, berries, spices and water, has long been associated with fertility, likely due to the belief that it increases sexual desire. First used many centuries ago, this drink is what actually sparked the term "honeymoon" since newlyweds were encouraged to drink it nightly for the first month of their marriage. Although some of the increased libido could be attributed to the alcohol content of mead, it does contain B vitamins, which are needed to produce testosterone.


5. Scent

This is one natural aphrodisiac which can vary greatly from person to person. Smells are very strongly associated with memory, so it may be your partner's perfume or cologne that turns you on but doesn't have quite the same effect on others. In addition, many studies on scent and libido have been completed and results show that certain smells do have a tendency to increase blood flow to the sex organs. For men, the most enticing smells were lavender and pumpkin pie. For women, the odd combination of licorice and cucumber was found to be the sexiest.


Bottom Line

Feel free to try these natural aphrodisiacs for yourself since they are relatively harmless when consumed in moderation. However, if any specific health conditions prevent you from eating or drinking certain products, make sure you aren't violating those guidelines by using these aphrodisiacs.
Finally, remember that the effects of aphrodisiacs are not supported by scientific research, so none of the items listed above is guaranteed to increase your sexual desire. See your doctor if you are concerned about your lack of sex drive as underlying physical or mental conditions may be inhibiting your libido.


Sources:



http://www.symptomfind.com/nutrition-supplements/natural-aphrodisiacs/
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