Pumpkins and Herbs for Sexual Health

Bright orange pumpkins really brighten up our world, don’t they? 

But pumpkins are not only visually pleasing, they also appeal to our sensual centers.

Studies have found that certain smells can arouse one’s sexual desire. As it turns out, the smell of pumpkin pie is among them, along with black licorice and vanilla. To spice up your love life, I’m going to address some of your questions about low libido, and share with you a few tricks and treats to rekindle the flame of passion.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, sexual health is the function of the yang – fire energy – of the kidney-adrenal system. Yang energy may wane due to unhealthy dietary or lifestyle factors, or become blocked by negative emotions. When this happens, there is a deficiency of the fire that sustains healthy sexual energy.

For women, love – the emotional connection from the heart – is often the first thing that’s needed to reignite the sexual fire. Reconnect with your own emotions, have open and honest communications with your partner, schedule time for fun, play and intimacy, and find ways to make yourself feel sexy and desirable. Take care of your body, wear clothes that make you feel attractive – and make some pumpkin pies!

As for the majority of men, physical fitness and relaxation is often what’s needed to increase sexual function and bolster confidence in the bedroom.

Try the following Kidney Qigong to increase your sexual desire and to experience relaxation.

Generally speaking, pungent, spicy foods – garlic, onions, chives, cinnamon, ginger, peppers, coriander, and cardamom – can activate arousal centers and increase blood flow to the lower body.

Also, the amino acid arginine (also known as L-arginine) can help maintain immune and hormone functions to ensure a healthy sexual appetite and performance. Arginine-rich foods include red meat, fish, poultry, wheat germ, grains, nuts and seeds, and dairy products. 

Additionally shellfish such as oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp and scallops contain a rich supply of zinc, which is also essential for manufacturing hormones and enhancing sexual libido.

Within the arsenal of Chinese herbal libido tonics, tribulus terrestris, also known as Puncture Vine, stands out as one of the most popular for improving sexual function. Traditionally used in Chinese herbal formulas for liver, kidney, and cardiovascular conditions, tribulus has been found in animal studies to enhance testosterone release and increase endurance and strength.

Another of my favorite sex and longevity tonics is Morinda Root. It’s traditionally prescribed for a wide range of issues, from low libido in women to impotence in men, as well as high blood pressure, weak digestion, respiratory problems, and immune dysfunction conditions. The herb also has been found to increase energy and boost stamina and endurance. You can find these two herbs in health food stores, online, or from acupuncturists.

The following exercises will help to heal the body and improve the immune system function:
How to build up Chi (Qi) to fight off illness and maintain good health
Zhan Zhuang - foundation of Internal Martial Arts

Standing Qigong produced superior results

Standing Qigong/Meditation Part 2

What is stronger Qigong or Coffee for an instant “hit”?

I hope you find these tips helpful.

And now that you know pumpkin pie can help spice up your sex life, it’s time to make one for your beloved. 

May you and your family live long, live strong and live happy!

– Written by Dr. Mao