Passion products support vital libido and sexual performance.** These nutrients are often sourced from exotic herbs with a long history of traditional use that work to:
What are Passion Products?
While sex is generally a private part of life, it is an important aspect of well-being. In addition to creating feelings of pleasure and emotional connection with a partner, sexual intercourse actually has health benefits, a concept reinforced by numerous studies. Among the findings of various investigations are these key points: Sex burns the same calories as moderate exercise, helps with relaxation and may promote immune function and cardiovascular wellness.**
One obstacle to a healthy sex life is unmotivated libido, commonly referred to as "low sex drive." When desire is stalled, sexual intercourse is less frequent. Research has shown that with women, libido tends to decline after settling into a comfortable relationship. A European study found that after four years of stability in a relationship, less than 50% of women desired regular sex. In following that pattern for those in a 20-year relationship, this number declined to 20%. And while men on average want sexual intercourse more often, one out of five males has self-reported some kind of sexual difficulty, including maintaining an erection.**
Passion products provide natural options for supporting sex drive, and commonly consist of time-honored herbs.** Some of the most widely used passion supplements are:
- Horny Goat Weed: The common name of the epimedium plant, horny goat weed has long been a component of Chinese wellness practices. Associated with heat, focus and masculinity, the herb is valued for promoting optimal sexual health. Studies have found the plant's libido-upholding properties largely stem from a flavonoid known as icariin, which may encourage ideal erectile function by elevating circulating nitric oxide levels.**
- DHEA: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a natural steroid hormone generated in the adrenal glands and present in the brain, as well as the reproductive systems of men and women. Since levels of DHEA decline in males and females after early adulthood, research has suggested that supplemental amounts may modulate hormonal balance and optimize youthful libido.**
- Maca: A cruciferous plant, maca is grown in the heights of Peru's Andes mountain range. Its extract is derived from its thick root, which has been used by South American natives for centuries, particularly due to its ties to fertility. Numerous investigations have found that maca, which acts as a phytoestrogen, carries benefits for both male sexual performance and female hormone equilibrium.**
- Dong Quai: Widely referred to "female ginseng," dong quai is a botanical root long valued in Chinese wellness traditions. Along with its use as an herb intended for women's reproductive health, the plant has been utilized to help men avoid reaching climax too quickly.**
- Yohimbe: This West African tree is prized for its bark, which has been called upon for ages to promote healthy libido. Studies have indicated that yohimbe extract's links to sexual vitality may be attributed to the stimulant alkaloid yohimbine, which increases circulation throughout the body, notably in the genital area.**
- Damiana: The leaves of the flowering damiana shrub have a history of wellness use in North, Central and South America. The herb is linked to libido stimulation, and scientists have suggested this quality is linked to its nitric oxide-boosting activity. Investigations have noted that damiana positively affects desire in both women and men.**
- Muira Puama: A blooming Brazilian shrub, muira puama is also known as "potency wood," due to its traditional Amazonian reputation for enhancing male sexual performance. Research has shown that the herbal extract, which is sourced from the roots or bark, may also work as an aphrodisiac to encourage healthy female sex drive.**
- Wild Yam: For centuries, the roots of wild yam have been used in various folk wellness practices to support women’s reproductive health. Modern investigations have found that the herb contains the phytoestrogen diosgenin, which is related to DHEA, and may promote hormonal balance.**
Passion Products
Passion products contain natural compounds, many of which are derived from plants. Capsules and tablets are the most common forms of the nutrients, though some supplements are available as a powder. Some herbs are also offered as liquids or topical creams. Ingredients may be combined in sexual performance formulas.**
Passion Products Directions for Use
Prior to using these or any other supplements, make sure to seek advice from your health care professional. Doses vary considerably based on included nutrients, with capsules and tablets ranging from 100 to 1,600 mg.**
