Valerian as an Aphrodisiac for Men

Aphrodisiacs are substances which are believed to enhance a sexual experience. However not all love potions work by directly stimulating sexual desire. Some may work by removing inhibitions and alleviating anxiety, thus creating a mood more conductive to the experience of love. One such substance is Valerian which has long been used by men to lower sexual inhibition and induce relaxation – conditions which are crucial to the enjoyment of sex.

About Valerian

The botanical name of this perennial plant is Valeriana officinalis but in folklore it was known by other names like ‘all heal’, great wild valerian, Amantilla, Setwal and Capon’s Tail. The plant is native to Europe and western Asia. Because of its medicinal properties, it is now specially cropped in England, Germany and Holland. Some other varieties of Valerian are also found in China and the Far East while there are certain South American varieties of the species too.

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Valerian as an aphrodisiac for men

Not all aphrodisiacs work by immediately heightening sexual desire. If a person is prone to stress and anxieties in a sexual situation or regarding his sexual performance, then no matter how powerful the stimulation, he can never get aroused. Substances like Valerian work by lowering inhibitions and promoting a relaxed frame of mind which is more conducive to sexual pleasure. Studies into the chemical composition of Valerian have shown that the herb contains a complex of alkaloids known as valepotriates which produce a calming effect on the central nervous system and helps one to relax.

Since the medieval times, Valerian has been extensively used as a sedative. It is believed that the herb works to alleviate tension and melancholy and promote restfulness. Valerian was widely used as a tranquilizer by the soldiers in the Blitz in England during the Second World War and continues to be prescribed today as a sedative. The best part about its use as a sedative is that unlike prescription drugs, Valerian does not lead to addiction or dependence. In fact, it does not even cause hangover or impaired concentration which may be brought about by some tranquilizers or anti-anxiety drugs like Halcion.

Because of its relaxing effect on the central nervous system, Valerian has also found use in the treatment of a variety of psychological disorders like hypochondria, hysteria, depression and neuroses. Once again, by alleviating symptoms of these disorders, Valerian may prove useful in promoting mental health and relaxation which is after all necessary if one is to take pleasure in sex.

Besides helping the mind to relax, valerian may also be helpful in easing tension in muscles of the human body. This may be because of the anti-spasmodic properties of valerianic acid which is the main active ingredient in Valerian. Valerianic acid is a thin, oleaginous liquid that emits an unpleasant odor. It is because of the action of the valerianic acid that the herb is often prescribed for treating muscle spasms and pains. In fact, the relaxing effect of Valerian on the muscles may also help to remove tension and stress from sex organs and make arousal easier and the sexual experience more pleasurable.

The relaxing effect of Valerian on the central nervous system is beneficial to other body systems too. According to some sources, the herb stimulates peristalsis of the digestive system and improves blood circulation. The latter is good news for men suffering from erectile problems since effective circulation means prompt and uninterrupted blood supply to the genitals which is essential to achieve and maintain an erection.

Valerian usage

A yellow essential oil is extract from the roots of the herb. However since the oil has an unpleasant smell, Valerian is usually consumed in the form of capsules of its root extract. One can also make a tea from one teaspoonful of the dried root after adding it to a cupful of boiling water. The decoction is left to stand until properly brewed and then taken hot as tea or cooled and taken as a juice. Tea made from valerian is particularly tasty and stimulating and if being consumed as a love potion, is usually administered half an hour or so before making love. Among other aphrodisiacal uses of Valerian, a handful of its juice can be added with ginger juice to bathwater to get rid of anxiety and achieve a soothing effect before sexual activity. For therapeutic purposes, Valerium can be taken in the form of capsules containing powdered root extract or in the form of tinctures, the dosage of which should be determined by a trained herbal practitioner.

Possible side effects of using Valerian

Used in recommended doses, Valerian root extracts are generally not toxic. However in large doses, the herb may cause overexcitement, visual illusions, headaches, restlessness and agitation. Even though it is not addictive, Valerium should not be taken on a daily basis for long periods of time since extended use may lead some people to be stimulated rather than calmed. Moreover the herb should not be used by pregnant women. Valerium should always be used with caution and under the supervision of a herbal practitioner or healthcare provider.

Besides being used as a drug, Valerian has long been regarded as a spice and perfume with significant aphrodisiacal properties. In ancient Romans it was used as an incense and in medieval Europe the dried herb was employed to perfume both clothing and linen. Interestingly a German herbal book from the 14th century hints at its aphrodisiacal effects when it advises: "Take valerian in the mouth and kiss anybody you want. In that way you will win love." Thus the folk belief in Medieval Europe that any girl wearing common Valerium would be spoilt for lovers is hardly surprising. Even though, the aphrodisiacal claims of Valerium in modern times have been qualified by scientific research, the fact that the herb is hugely effective in lowering sexual inhibitions and relaxing the mind for love is evidence of its reputation as an important means of aiding and promoting sexual pleasure.