Terrestris Firma
Boost libido and function without undue pressure.
By Scott Blossom, O.M.D.
Impotence AFFECTS HALF of men over 40 to some degree, reports the National Institutes of Health. While drugs like Viagra and Cialis have been a huge success for men with erectile dysfunction, those looking for a naturopathic solution may want to consider Tribulus terrestris, which has been used as a virility rejuvenator in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. (It's also found as a tonic and in formulas to treat urinary problems.) Unlike herbal sexual aids such as yohimbe and ginseng, tribulus doesn't increase the risk of high blood pressure.
According to studies in Bulgaria, the herb seems to encourage the production and reception of androgens including testosterone, which plays a central role in increasing libido. Since sexual function and libido are regulated by different systems, you don't perform better just because your libido is high (or vice versa). Tribulus offers a safe way to get both libido and function operating optimally. Consult your physician along with a skilled herbalist, as the issue is complex--and don't use tribulus if you're currently taking nitroglycerin for angina.
According to studies in Bulgaria, the herb seems to encourage the production and reception of androgens including testosterone, which plays a central role in increasing libido. Since sexual function and libido are regulated by different systems, you don't perform better just because your libido is high (or vice versa). Tribulus offers a safe way to get both libido and function operating optimally. Consult your physician along with a skilled herbalist, as the issue is complex--and don't use tribulus if you're currently taking nitroglycerin for angina.
- To improve sexual function: Take 500 milligrams of tribulus three times a day; for the best effects, add 1,000 mg of arginine three times a day. This combination is generally considered safe and can be taken to enhance performance 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity. Several products pair these herbs.
- To enhance your libido: Simmer 500 mg of powdered tribulus in organic milk or almond milk, stirring constantly for five minutes. You can add 500 mg of standardized maca extract to enhance the effect. This blend is particularly nourishing and recommended for men or women who have lowered libido due to exhaustion or are recovering from illness.
