Ladies, does your sex drive need a boost? If you’re like many people women, sex is the last thing on your mind after a long day. But of course we know sex is a vital component of a relationship- the ultimate connection. Without it, your relationship can suffer. And if we go one step further- orgasms are a vital component of health. When you orgasm, your body produces oxytocin, a hormone that combats cortisol, your stress hormone. So you can get caught in a vicious cycle- when you’re stressed, you don’t want sex and its difficult to orgasm. When you don’t orgasm, you won’t produce oxytocin and therefore your cortisol, or stress hormone, can remain high.

So here are some tips to break that vicious cycle and start feeling more frisky:

1. Self-care: Carving in “me time” is a must when it comes to boosting your libido. As women, we are constantly giving- providing for the needs of our kids, our friends, our aging parents and our partners. If you haven’t done anything for yourself in a day then having sex just to check it off the list to make your partner happy is going to seem like a chore. And when it is a chore, there is a little chance you will enjoy it. Self-care ideas:
   • Taking a bath with epsom salts and lavender essential oil. Epsom salts are rich in magnesium, which will make you calm and relaxed. Add 2 cups of epsom salts and 5 drops of lavender essential oil to a bath. Dim the lights or close your eyes and breath deeply. Soak for 15-20 minutes.
   • Exercise- exercise promotes overall blood flow and circulation, which will only help with improving blood flow to the genital region.
   • Meditation and mindfulness- Let’s be honest- if you’re thinking about your grocery list or what you have on the agenda for tomorrow, you will not be able to get in the mood!
2. Maca: This is my number one, “go-to” herbs for boosting libido. Research shows this endocrine tonifying herb helps increase sexual desire. Add 1 tbsp to smoothies or enjoy as a “Maca chocolate truffle.” See here for recipes on how to incorporate this super-food in your diet.
3. DHEA: This hormone is often termed the “anti-aging hormone” or as I often say your “vitality hormone.” It is important for a healthy mood, energy level and libido. It peaks in our mid-20’s and starts to steadily decline with age. While I don’t expect a female in her 40’s or 50’s to have DHEA the level of a 20 year old, I do still want her to have adequate amounts of DHEA for optimal health. DHEA plummets with chronic stress and a resultant state of fatigue, lack of sex drive and low mood occurs. As part of a comprehensive hormone panel, I test DHEA, and if DHEA levels are low I recommend taking it as a supplement. I recommend only supplementing with DHEA under the guidance of a doctor.
4. Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb helps you not only adapt to stress by balancing cortisol, but it has also long been touted as an aphrodisiac. It rebuilds overall vitality, including sexual vitality.
5. Shatavari: This herb is often referred to as “the plant for the woman with 1000 husbands.” Shatavari powder can be mixed with maca powder, ashwaganhda powder, almond milk and honey for a “libido tonic.”
6. Ditch the pill: This study of over 1000 women revealed “women using a hormonal contraceptive method experienced less frequent sexual activity, arousal, pleasure, and orgasm and more difficulty with lubrication even when controlling for sociodemographic variables.”
7. Diet: Here are the top foods that are sabotaging your libido:
   • Sugar
   • Grains- gluten and corn especially!
   • Conventional meat (eat grass-fed organic)
   • Dairy

Here is more info on achieving hormonal balance with food.

Of course in order for us to connect to our partners, we need to be heard and have good, open communication. Schedule in date nights regularly, whether this be a dinner out or a walk outdoors with just the two of you. Quality time together, good communication and following the recommendations above should get the love juices flowing.

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.