‘Not today Honey’ – Is that the reply you give to your partner almost every night?
Then, this may be an issue of poor sex drive and stamina.
In a relationship, having an urge for intimacy is the key to emotional well-being, attachment, and quality of life. Having the desire or sex drive and maintaining it is important. A healthy sex drive has the potential to bring you closer to your partner
In Ayurveda, the importance of sexual activity has been loudly proclaimed. Sex has been looked upon as a natural method to activate the Pranas. Shukra, or semen, is looked upon as a vital essence. However, many reasons cause a low sex drive. This article helps you understand the causes and the solutions better.
Causes of low sex drive and stamina
Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with a robust sex drive and stamina. One may hit a slump in the act due to various reasons. Some of the common causes of low sex drive and poor performance on the bed are as follows:
Declining Testosterone levels
Testosterone is a male hormone, and a declining testosterone level can cause a drop in your sexual functions. The levels may drop due to various reasons. The common reasons include aging, obesity, memory-related problems, loss of muscle mass, etc. [1]
Certain medications
Medications like antidepressants, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, corticosteroids, and medications for issues like GERD and acidity may lead to poor sex drive and stamina.
Depression
If you are suffering from chronic depression, you will lose interest in life and all the pleasures of life. As sexual intimacy is a pleasurable act, you will lose interest in sex also. This can lead to poor sex drive and stamina. [2]
Sexual dysfunction
Sexual issues in men like erectile dysfunction, penile weakness, and premature ejaculation may lead to low libido, poor sex drive, and stamina.
Excessive alcoholism or drug dependency
Excessive use of alcohol and illicit drugs like marijuana or others may lower the production of testosterone, leading to poor sex drive and stamina. [3]
Emotional anxiety or stress
Emotional anxiety and stress may hurt your cortisol levels, and that may negatively affect your endocrine system. In other words, too much stress reduces testosterone hormone production.
Relationship issues
Lack of emotional security in the relationship can make you hesitant about sexual intimacy. You may not want the company of your partner. That, too, can cause a drop in your sex drive and stamina. [4]
Lack of exercises
Exercise can offer you several health benefits. Doing exercises regularly can keep issues like obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes at bay. This can give you overall fitness and increase your stamina and sex drive. Furthermore, exercising can reduce the release of stress hormones. When your mind is relaxed and free from stress, you can perform better in the bedroom. [5]
Too much exercise
Studies have shown that too much exercise can also destroy your desire for sexual encounters. When we say too many exercises, it generally implies high-intensity workouts and intensive endurance training. If you are into such training, you must talk to your doctor for expert advice. [6]
Chronic diseases
Chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, kidney and liver failure, and lung issues may cause a drop in sex drive and stamina.
There are several ways to address this issue. Before going to a doctor, try some simple, doable measures. One such measure is paying special attention to your diet. Food can play a vital role in helping you re-achieve your lost groove. In this article, we’ll learn about the best foods for sex drive.
12 best foods for better sex
In Ayurvedic texts, mention has been made of the Vajikarana Ahara. This special diet consists of aphrodisiac food items and is aimed at improving the sexual potency and vigour of men. Here are some of the best Vajikarana foods:
1. Milk
The importance of milk as a Vrishya has been highlighted in the ancient scripts of Kama Sutra. In India, it is a tradition to serve a glassful of milk to the couple on their first night. The power and potency of milk as an aphrodisiac comes from its ability to nourish the Shukra Dhatu. Therefore, milk stands out as the best food for sex stamina. [7]
2. Ghee
Ghee or clarified butter obtained from cow’s milk is a powerful aphrodisiac. In this regard, the pure desi ghee obtained from cow’s milk is the best. You may add ghee or Ghrita to a glass of milk and drink every night for a better sexual experience. [8]
3. Onion
Onions are the best food for sex. The aphrodisiac properties of onion boost the production of the testosterone hormones and also correct ejaculatory issues in males. [12]
4. Pine nuts
Pine nuts are referred to as vegan oysters. The high zinc content in pine nuts can boost the production of the testosterone hormones. Also, the high content of magnesium in pine nuts can improve your libido and sex drive. [10]
5. Saffron
Saffron, or Kesar, had been one of the fondest ingredients of the Egyptian queen Cleopatra, who was known for her seductive attributes. Also, in Ayurveda, saffron is considered a powerful aphrodisiac capable of boosting the sexual function in men. Therefore, Kesar happens to be the best food for sex stamina. You may add it to your milk glass or a bowl of kheer or pulao. Saffron adds brilliant aroma and colour to your recipes! [9]
6. Honey
Honey, also known as Shahad or Madhu, is a potent aphrodisiac. Boron in honey can boost the release of nitric oxide needed during sexual arousal. Also, phenol in raw honey can stimulate the production of the testosterone hormone, leading to improved sex drive. [11]
7. Salmond Sugar
Salmond Sugar is known as Salab Mishri in Ayurveda. It is obtained from the Adam and Eve root. This vital Ayurvedic ingredient can improve penile function during sex by improving blood circulation. This best food for sex power may be added in powdered form to a glass of warm milk and taken every day for the best results.
8. Pomegranate
The pomegranate seeds’ rich crimson color indicates heat and sexual arousal. The fruit is indeed capable of increasing your sex drive by increasing the levels of the testosterone hormones. [13]
9. Dates
Scientific evidence suggests that dates or khajur can increase your sex drive. Amino acids in dates can improve the blood flow to the sex organs and boost your sexual health. Dates in milk make the best food for sex drive. [14]
10. Fig
The very look and aroma of the fruit may arouse you sexually. Amino acids in figs can improve penile strength during arousal and heighten your pleasure.
11. Oysters
The high zinc content in oysters supports the level of dopamine in your body, which plays a vital role in improving your sexual functions. Oysters are the best food for sex stamina in the non-vegetarian category. [15]
12. Eggs
Eggs contain huge amounts of Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B5. The vital nutrients have an important role in stabilizing the sex hormones and improving your sex life.
FAQs
1. What is Vajikarana in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, Vajikarana is an important branch of treatment. It is also known as Vrishya Chikitsa. This mode of treatment is categorized under Ashtanga Ayurveda. It is one of the eight verticals of Ashtanga Ayurveda, and the treatment meted out revolves mainly around the aphrodisiacs. The Chikitsa aims at enhancing virility during the sexual act. [16]
2. Which are the best Vajikarana herbs?
Ayurveda comes up with several powerful herbs and herbal mineral formulations for treating sexual weaknesses. The best and the most effective ones are Ashwagandha, Safed Musli, Gokshura, Shilajit, Shatavari, Mustak, Kaunch Beej, Tulsi Beej, and Kapikacchu. [17]
3. Which is the best beverage for a sex drive?
Hot chocolate and coffee are the best beverages for sex drive. These beverages have shown proven results in boosting one’s sex drive and increasing the release of endorphins, which are pleasure hormones. [11]
4. Which fruit equals the power of Viagra?
Watermelon can be regarded as a natural Viagra. This fruit can treat erectile dysfunction effectively. [18]
5. Which are the best spices to increase sex power?
Spices like nutmeg, clove, cinnamon, fenugreek, and ginger have aphrodisiac properties and can improve your sex power.
Conclusion
The Indian medical system attaches a lot of importance to nutritious food or Ahara for treating all types of weaknesses, including sexual weaknesses. Therefore, diet holds an important place in treating the issues of low sex drive and poor stamina. This article has listed some of the best foods for sex. So, if you are facing such issues, watch out for your diet first.
Disclaimer
This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
References
- The role of testosterone in male sexual function
- A prospective study on sexual dysfunctions in depressed males and the response to treatment
- Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in male subjects with alcohol dependence
- Exploring the Link Between Daily Relationship Quality, Sexual Desire, and Sexual Activity in Couples
- An investigation of the relationship between physical fitness, self-concept, and sexual functioning
- Endurance Exercise Training and Male Sexual Libido
- Milk: An Elixir of Life
- Development and evaluation of aphrodisiac potential of a classical ayurvedic formulation, ‘Kaamdev ghrita’ in rat model
- Effects of saffron (Crocus sativus) on sexual dysfunction among men and women: A systematic review and meta-analysis
- Aphrodisiacs through the Ages: The Discrepancy Between Lovers’ Aspirations And Their Desires
- Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs
- Testosterone in Males as Enhanced by Onion (Allium Cepa L.)
- Aphrodisiac Activity of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruit extract on the sexual function in rats.
- Phoenix dactylifera Linn.(PIND KHARJURA): A review
- Nutraceutical potential of Oyster
- Vajikarana: Treatment of sexual dysfunctions based on Indian concepts
- A Review on Plants Used for Improvement of Sexual Performance and Virility
- APHRODISIAC EFFECTIVENESS TEST ETHANOL EXTRACT ALBEDO (MESOCARP) WATER MELON (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsumura & Nakai) ON Mice (Mus musculus)