Many medicinal plants and herbs traditionally revered as aphrodisiacs are used in herbal medicine to stimulate energy and vitality, and improve blood flow, so it makes sense that this would have a knock-on effect on the libido. They include hot spices such as cayenne pepper and cinnamon, which have been used in love potions since medieval times to help woo reluctant lovers, relieve frigidity and impotence, and enhance fertility. Similarly ginger, which is considered to be an aphrodisiac in many cultures and countries around the world. In medieval Europe, it was believed to have originated in the Garden of Eden.
In ancient Greece, peppermint was considered such a potent aphrodisiac that soldiers were forbidden to imbibe it during wartime for fear they would be distracted from their mission. And for centuries, peppermint tea has been drunk by Arab men to boost virility.
Other culinary herbs that have medicinal, and reputedly libido-boosting, properties include clove, garlic, parsley and rosemary. What they all have in common is that they help slow the aging process, and are also circulatory stimulants, boosting blood flow to organs and extremities.
You can make wonderfully aromatic and tasty teas with these herbs. Use a heaped teaspoon of dried herb per cup, more of the fresh herb per cup. It’s important to leave the tea to infuse for 10-15 minutes for full effect!
Reducing your stress levels (see relevant section), and pampering yourself, for example by having an aromatherapy massage, or spa day, will make you feel relaxed and good about yourself, which can be a massive libido booster…
Think outside the box when trying to find ways to feel relaxed/invigorated/good about yourself. What works for you? It might be learning to ride a horse, sail a boat, doing a parachute jump for charity… taking a leap into the unknown and bravely going where you have not dared go before….
Do something for yourself. Or do something new with your partner… Many women find their relationships/marriages change when they go through the menopause, especially if it is something they have embraced and moved forward with. It can help you become closer to a partner, to discover new aspects of your relationship. AND boost your libido.
However, I should just add, I have known women who, empowered by menopause, have embarked on a tempestuous new affair and/or left their partner/husband…. And that, too, is about moving on.