 Herbal Aphrodisiacs with Sensual Activities
and DIY Recipes
By Candice Brunlinger, Herbalist
Throughout history there are many references in written texts and art reflecting the fascination humans have with love and aphrodisiacs. The word aphrodisiac comes from Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of Love and it describes the action of a substance which enhances sexual desire, functions and performance and can include herbs, food, aromas, beverages and even sensual activities. The use of aphrodisiacs date back to ancient times and are referenced in texts from Egyptian, Roman, Greek, Ayurvedic, Chinesse, Aztec and many other cultures.
There are various ways plants can increase libido and sex drive ranging from increasing circulation to genitals, stimulating the production and/or improving the utilization of sexual hormones, increasing sexual fluids, relaxing and releasing social barriers, etc. It is important to note that our sexual vitality can be a reflection of our overall health and vitality so we need to nourish our entire body and mind, finding our optimal balance.
Stimulating Herbal Aphrodisiacs 
There are many aromatic seeds and culinary spices which stimulate sexual desire and libido which is one of the many reasons they have a long history in cuisine and perfumery. They include anise, basil (fresh), cacao (chocolate), caraway, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cumin, fennel, ginger, nutmeg, saffron, etc. You can receive the aphrodisiac properties of these spices by smelling and tasting them in food and infusing them into alcohol and honey to make liquors and cordials. Eat or drink before or during to enhance the experience. The essential oils can be used in aromatic blends to make perfumes, scent candles and diffuse throughout the room.
 Chocolate is made from the cacao bean and is sweetened due to its bitter flavor when raw or roasted. The darker the chocolate the more nutrients and aphrodisiac qualities we receive, however; it should be noted that enjoying the taste of the chocolate also helps enhance our sensual desires so find the right level of sweetness for your palate. Chocolate is known for stimulating endorphins and lifting the spirits. One of my favorite ways of using raw cacao is by adding the chopped beans or nibs into cordial and liquor recipes. Or take the powder and make delicious chocolate desserts. You can also use chocolate syrup for sensual foreplay which is very delicious and a fun flirtatious activity with your partner to set the mood, enhance your intimate connection and get the juices flowing.
Sensual Herbal Aphrodisiacs
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sensual ylang ylang flowers
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Then there are the sensual smelling and floral herbs such as jasmine, neroli, rose, vanilla and ylang ylang which are commonly worn as a perfume to attract the attention of others while stimulating pheromones and sex drive. Since flowers are the genitals and reproductive organs of the plant and release scents which attract us to smell them, they can do the same for us. Use the essential oil in bath salts blends for a sensual bath. You can also dilute the oils in water and hydrosols to make a spray to mist on your body, throughout the room or on the bedding. If you have a diffuser or fountain add a few drops of the oil into it so the aroma fills the room. Floral scented candles are also nice to burn to receive aphrodisiac benefits and candles create a nice ambiance to set the mood. If you have fresh or dried flowers sprinkle them into a bath, on or next to the bed or infuse into a tea to drink.
Roses have a very long history as being a symbol of love and passion, especially red roses. "Giving a woman a dozen long stem red roses is an instantaneous aphrodisiac and the ultimate acknowledgement of her desirable passion." (1) A high quality essential oil is considered very precious and is expensive because a substantial quantity of flowers is needed to create a very small amount of oil. A little goes a long way since roses are very aromatic so I enjoy using it blended with other scents. Rose water and hydrosol can be added to aromatic sprays, perfumes, baths, lotion, creams, etc. If it is culinary grade you can add a splash into your desserts or beverages.
Relaxing Herbal Aphrodisiacs
Some aphrodisiacs have a relaxing nature which help reduce tension, anxiety or barriers preventing one from being able to be in the moment to feel sensual and enjoy the experience. Stress has a significant impact on libido and is known to reduce sex drive. Since the brain is the root of our body's sexual response, stress and mental distractions can impair the production of endorphins, our feel good hormones and can prevent us from being able to focus on enjoying sex or sensual activities. Stress also directs circulation away from our reproductive organs which can impair both men and women's overall performance. When we are relaxed our senses are heightened resulting in a deeper connection and more pleasurable experience. Some common relaxing herbs with an aphrodisiac nature include ashwagandha, lavender, kava kava, oatstraw, passion flower, roses and skullcap.
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gorgeous Kava Kava leaves
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Kava Kava is a Polynesian plant which is becoming more popular over the years for its euphoric, muscle relaxing and anti-anxiety effects. Its botanical name, Piper methysticum, means "intoxicating pepper". It is commonly consumed during social gatherings as it helps reduce social barriers, lift the mood and can even give you the giggles or make you feel "buzzed". It does have varying effects for people so start with small amounts and slowly increase the amount you eat or drink until you are familiar with the way your body responds to the plant. If you use too much it can become too relaxing for some individuals. The heart shaped leaves of this plant is a doctrine of signature indicating its use as an aphrodisiac.
Hormone Balancing Aphrodisiacs
Some herbs like Damiana leaf are well known for stimulating our "feel good" hormones such as oxytocin which are produced during orgasms and enhance many of the sensations we feel during sex. It is believed that if one has a hard time reaching an orgasm then they could be deficient in oxytocin. Damiana can be beneficial in these situations and was praised during the Ancient Aztec era as a strong stimulating aphrodisiac along with chocolate. Both herbs are still commonly used in modern Central and South America to restore sexual desire. Drink the damiana leaves in a tea or infuse in some wine or alcohol to make liquors and cordials. Damiana can also be smoked by itself or with other herbs such as passion flower, rose and mints to help relax and set the mood. Refer to the next section about adaptogenic herbs which also support and balance hormones.
Adaptogenic Herbal Aphrodisiacs
Adaptogen herbs build and restore the body when used over time. They have multiple benefits for sexual health including balancing hormones and enhancing libido, virility, endurance, stamina and performance. They help the mind and body "adapt" to stress reducing the overall negative affects of stress as well as how we respond to it. They are considered "chi tonics" which strengthen our life force. Some of the herbs are lubricating and bring moisture to the tissues body wide and can replenish reproductive fluids. Some examples include ashwagandha, eleuthero, ginseng, licorice, maca, muira puama, oats, sarsaparilla, schisandra and shatavari.
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb known to restore sexual health and endurance for both men and women. It has similar actions to ginseng but is not related to the ginseng family. It is a cerebral and nerve tonic which indirectly supports sexual health. In Sanskrit Ashwagandha means "the smell of a horse," indicating that the herb imparts the vigor and strength of a horse or stallion. (4)
Muira puama is often called "potency wood" or "tree of virility" which says it all. This Amazonian plant is a stimulant
and increases overall energy and endurance. Is has a long history in the Amazonian region to aid with impotence & sexual insufficiency. It is becoming increasingly more popular to use as herbal "Viagra" and is safer compared to other herbs with similar actions such as yohimbe. (5)
Schisandra is a berry from Traditional Chinese Medicine and literally supports the entire body and all organ systems. It is praised as a sexual and reproductive restorative herb especially for enhancing fluids and moisture. It is used in many formulas to support vaginal dryness and is commonly referred to as a "juicy" herb.
Shatavari is another Ayurvedic aphrodisiac, sexual restorative and fertility tonic. It is the Indian asparagus root and literally means "having 100 spouses". According to Ayurveda, Shatavari increases libido, strengthens reproductive organs, balances hormones, and enhances reproductive fluids. It can benefit men with impotence and general sexual debility. (6)
"Stay wet and moist, green and juicy"
~ Hildegard von Bingen
Circulatory Stimulating Herbal Aphrodisiacs
If circulation is affecting the experience, the following herbs can be used to increase circulation and direct blood flow to the reproductive organs and genitalia. The gentle and moderate circulatory tonics can be used regularly with minimal contraindications and include all the spices mentioned above as well as ginkgo, gotu kola, hawthorn, muira puama, prickly ash bark, and rosemary.
Yohimbe increases circulation to the gentiles but is an extremely intense herb and can have harmful effects if not use properly so I personally do not recommend using it unless you are working with a practioner; however, I do feel the need to mention it since it is considered a powerful aphrodisiac and acts as herbal Viagra for men. Unfortunately, the wrong dose can result in hospitalization as it has a high-risk-to benefit ratio with the following side effects: nervousness, irritability, dizziness, headache, sweating, hypertension, tachycardia, psychoses, hallucinations, potential renal failure, and a lupus-like syndrome. (7) Blood pressure should always be monitored and avoid use with all prescribed and OTC medications and any stimulants including caffeine. I would encourage working with other aphrodisiacs which are safer to use.
Nourishing Reproductive Herbs
Although herbs in this category may not be considered direct aphrodisiacs, it is important to nourish our body and reproductive organs to have strong sexual health and vitality. Nourishing reproductive herbs include burdock, dandelion, nettle, oatstraw/milky oats, red raspberry leaf, saw palmetto, etc. Use these herbs regularly over time by drinking them in tea infusions or incorporating them into your meals.
Oatstraw is considered a sexual restorative herb. It nourishes the entire body but especially the nervous and reproductive systems. The milky oat seeds (tops) provide the most lubricating and moistening benefits and are known to help replenish sexual fluids.
"If the body is full of vitality, is at ease, and the mind is poised and at peace, sex can be a powerful expression of that vitality. "
~ David Hoffmann, The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal (1)
Non-Herbal Aphrodisiacs & Activities to Set the Mood
There are many foods known to have aphrodisiac benefits including oysters, honey, fruit (especially pomegranates, apples, oranges, grapes, bananas and strawberries), artichokes, asparagus, etc. Having a diet with various colors where you consume the full rainbow spectrum is beneficial to receive a variety of nutrients to support overall health and vitality, balance hormones and support reproductive health. You can easily include the delicious spices mentioned earlier as well as the other aphrodisiac herbs to your food for ultimate benefits.
Honey has endless health and nutritive benefits but many are not aware of the wonderful aphrodisiac nature of this sweet nectar. In Greek mythology, honey is known as the "nectar of Aphrodite." It has traditionally been used in sexual and marriage ceremonies for centuries. The word "honeymoon" was actually coined from the traditional use of drinking mead after a wedding to encourage sex & increase libido & fertility in women after marriage.
There are many aphrodisiac herbs which taste wonderful in honey including: allspice, anise, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, damiana, ginger, licorice, lavender, orange peel, roses, etc. Use infused or aromatic honeys in tea, food, desserts, herbal balls, cordials, syrups and for body care.
"If one desires another's love, one must take an orange and prick it all over with a needle, then sleep with it under one's arm-pit. If the loved one then eats the orange, he or she will return love."
~ European Folklore (1)
Ambiance can be beneficial to relax and set the mood and varies from person to person. Try soft lighting, candles, a fire, incense, flowers or music to relax and set a romantic tone throughout the room. If possible, minimize any distractions. It may seem cheesy but if you do not have a fire place but subscribe to Netflix you can stream their holiday fire video where sounds of crackling wood can give you the impression of a fire. That sound definitely makes me want to snuggle up next my partner. Having a warm and comfortable temperature in the room helps as we are not as interested in removing clothing when it is cold.
Sensual
activities and foreplay can be very beneficial for igniting passion, enhancing desire  and to get the juices flowing. Try flirting with your partner, initiating mild horse play or tickling to have some fun. Relax with each other using sensual massage, baths or a soak in the hot tub. Connect with each other through a romantic home cooked meal, going for a nice walk, participating in activities which are comm
on interest, dancing, etc. Wear sexy lingerie to get the attention of your partner. Play intimate games which initiate deeper connections. My favorite is a version of 20 questions where you ask intimate questions about what your partner likes or fantasizes about. Incorporate some aphrodisiac whipped cream, desserts, fruit, syrups or cordials by bringing them into bed for a delicious, fun and sensual experience.
If you like to meditate or say affirmations try the following exercises:
Heart Chakra Meditation - If you would like to connect with your partner from the heart close your eyes and relax bringing your attention to your chest and visualize the color green. With each breath in feel the chest expanding and allow the heart energy to be open and flowing. With each breath out feel the chest contract but try and maintain an expansive heart. When you feel open and connected with your own heart you can send your love to your partner by visualizing your energy flow towards their heart. You can use imagery such as flowers or a symbol which is significant to you both if desired. When you are ready, slowly bring your awareness back and open your eyes. You should still feel an open heart full of passion and love for yourself and your partner.
Repeat any one of these love affirmations before or after your meditation:
"
My heart is open to give and receive loving energy. Every experience deepens my compassion and understanding of the principles of love. Love radiates from me unconditionally, and gratitude fills my heart!"
(2)
Aromatherapy: The Complete Guide to the Healing Art by Mindy Green and Kathy Keville
"
Deep at the center of my being there is an infinite well of love." (3)
~Louise Hay
"
Love fills my heart, my body, my mind, my consciousness, my very being, and radiates out from me in all directions and returns to me multiplied." (3)
~Louise Hay
Sacral Chakra Meditation
- If you would like to deepen your connection to your sacrum and be empowered by your own creative and sexual energy try this exercise. Close your eyes and relax, focusing on your breath. With each inhale bring your breath deeper into your body. Feel your first few breaths in your lungs expanding your chest more and more with each breath until you are taking slow and deep breaths. Then direct your breath and energy flow to your ribs and then to your belly. Feel your belly expand with each inhalation and contract with each exhalation for a few breaths. When you are ready move the breath to your lower abdomen below your navel and right above your pelvic bone. Visualize the vibrant color orange and feel your creative fire from within. Use any imagery which ignites your passion and visualize your sexual fluids flowing. You may start to feel more sensations in your genital regions and a sense of euphoria. You can visualize your partner if desired and send your sexual fire towards them from your lower belly. When you are ready slowly bring your awareness back and open your eyes. With practice, this exercise can be a powerful tool to do by yourself or with your partner to set the mood, prepare the body for sexual intimacy and enhance your passionate connection with each other.
Repeat any one of these sexual affirmations before or after your meditation:
"
I am worthy of love. I honor my beautiful body and am balanced sexually. My creativity provides a healthy outlet for the expression of my inner self. I am love!" (2)
Aromatherapy: The Complete Guide to the Healing Art by Mindy Green and Kathy Keville
"
I am radiant, beautiful and strong and I enjoy a healthy and passionate life. "
~Author unknown
"
I deserve pleasure in my life. I am emotionally aware of myself. I move easily and effortlessly. I embrace my sexuality. My sexuality is sacred. "
~Author unknown
For added benefits you can breathe in some aphrodisiac aromas or eat and drink them before these exercises to enhance your meditation and amplify your intentions.
Sensual DIY Recipes
Honey Infusions using Dried or Freshly Wilted Herbs
Put herbs in a mason jar and cover with honey. Macerate with a spoon to release all air bubbles. Add more honey until about 1 inch covers the herbs. Steep in a sunny or warm place for 2-4 weeks and watch for mold or condensation. If condensation does appear, wipe off or absorb with a paper towel. Gently heat by placing the jar in hot water for 10-15 minutes and strain through a stainless steel strainer, muslin or cheese cloth. Incorporate your herbal honey into your food, tea, syrups, cordials, nut butter balls, etc.
Damiana Rose Honey - "Rosie-ana Nectar"
Equal parts damiana leaf and rose petals
Optional: add a little fresh vanilla bean, lavender, ginger, cardamom or all spice depending on personal flavor preferences.
Follow instructions above.
Orange Spiced Honey
1/3 cup orange peel
2-3 cinnamon sticks, broken
1 tbsp all spice
1 tsp clove
½ tsp of decorticated cardamom (or 1 tbsp broken cardamom pods)
Place all herbs in a pint sized mason jar and saturate with honey until completely covered. Follow instructions above.
Vanilla Spice Aromatic Honey
1 cup of honey
3 drops organic vanilla essential oil
2 drops organic cardamom essential oil
1 drop cinnamon essential oil
Add essential oils directly into your honey container and stir well.
Lavender Rose Honey
1 cup of honey
4 drops of organic lavender essential oil
1-2 drops of pure organic rose essential oil
Add essential oils directly into your honey container and stir well
Cordials, Liquors and Herbal Wine
Cordials and liquors are wonderfully sweet, creative, and fun to use intimately. They are made when you infuse alcohol with herbs, spices, fruit and/or nuts. Honey is commonly used to sweeten the infusion and provide a thicker nectar like consistency.
Fill a jar a little more than ½ full of your herbs and pour in your alcohol of choice (i.e. brandy, rum, vodka, etc.) until all herbs are completely saturated and free flowing with at least 1 inch of extra liquid. If you plan on using honey substitute 1/3-1/2 part of the alcohol with the honey depending on how sweet you want it. Mix well to ensure the herbs are completely saturated and to release all air bubbles. Let it infuse for 2-4 weeks and strain through muslin or cheese cloth. Add more honey if needed or a splash of hydrosol or syrup.
Experiment with adding cordials to desserts, food, herbal balls, cocktails, sparkling water, sparkling cider, etc.
Kava-miana Chai Cordial
2 parts damiana
1 part kava kava root, all spice
¾ part cinnamon chips
½ part cardamom seeds, grated nutmeg
1/4 part of cloves
Mix all herbs together and add your desired alcohol. I like to use vodka or rum with 1/3 part honey for this recipe. Make sure all herbs are completely saturated. Infuse for 4-6 weeks, strain and add more honey to taste if needed.
Chocolate Kava Cordial
Use the same recipe above, Kava-miana Chai Cordial, but add 1 part cacao nibs and use ¼ part honey. Add 1/3 part chocolate syrup after straining and mix well.
Damiana Vanilla Rose Cordial
1 part damiana
¾ part roses
½ part shatavari root and ashwagandha root
Mix all herbs together and add your desired alcohol. I like to use equal parts brandy, vodka and honey. Make sure all herbs are completely saturated. Infuse for 4-6 weeks, strain and add ½ ounce rose hydrosol (optional) and 1 ounce of vanilla extract (or to taste) per 8 ounces of liquid.
Vanilla Bean Extract
4 vanilla beans
1 cup vodka or 5-6 ounces vodka with 2-3 ounces brandy (for a sweeter extract)
Cut the vanilla beans in half the long way and place in a jar. Pour the alcohol over the vanilla beans, making sure that the beans are completely covered. Let it infuse in a dark place for 2-6 months. The longer it steeps, the stronger the extract. Remove vanilla beans, scrapping out the seeds from the pod into the extract.
Damiana Wine
Take 2 cups of damiana (or 1 cup damiana and 1 cup roses) and add to a half gallon sized mason jar. Pour in a bottle of red or white wine and top off with ½ cup-1 cup of honey (optional).
Stir well, cover and let it sit for 1-2 weeks. Strain and enjoy!
Be Juicy Wine
½ cup shatavari, ashwagandha, roses
¼ cup schisandra berry
3-4 vanilla beans split in half
Add all herbs in a half gallon mason jar with 1 bottle of red or white wine and ½-1 cup of honey (optional). Stir well, cover and let it sit for 1-2 weeks. Strain and enjoy!
Rosie Delight Syrup
 1 cup of organic raw sugar; ½ cup of water; ½ cup of rose petals
Bring sugar and water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add ½ cup of rose petals into a glass mason jar and pour sugar/water mixture over them. Cover and infuse for at least 12 hours. Strain and use as a garnish for desserts or ice cream. Incorporate into cordials, herbal balls/truffles/candies, herbal cocktails, tea, or for sexual foreplay. Syrup will keep refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
Rose Whipped Cream
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp vanilla extract, rose hydrosol
1/8 cup maple syrup (or a little more to taste for a sweeter flavor)
¼ cup rose petals
Grind rose petals into a powder and set aside. Add all other ingredients into a bowl and use an electric mixer to vigorously blend them until soft peaks form. Add to a bowl or use as a topping for fruit, chocolate cake, ice cream, pie or any other delicious dessert. Take the powdered roses and dust on top the whipped cream for a stronger rose flavor.
Euphoric Herbal Nut Butter Balls/Bars
1 cup of Almond Butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
1 cup honey (add more to taste if needed)
1 cup of Humboldt Herbals' Cocoa Euphoria Smoothie Blend (Cacao, Cinnamon, Muira Puama, Maca, Damiana and Ginger) or use any of your favorite herbal aphrodisiac powders.
¼-½ cup chopped nuts, diced dried fruit, sesame seeds, coconut flakes, or any other fun & tasty amendment you would like to add.
Add nut butter, honey and herbal powders into a large bowl and mix well with a large wooden spoon or your hands. Ideally, you want the mixture to be soft and malleable but firm enough to not crumble. Depending on how much honey you add and what type of nut butter you use you may need to add a little more herbal powder. If the mix is too dry and crumbly add a little more nut butter or honey. Gently fold in chopped nuts, diced dried fruit, sesame seeds or coconut flakes. Roll the mixture into small bite sized balls and store in a Tupperware container. If you would like to make bars you can spread the mixture onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a rolling pin spread out the mixture until it is flat. Use a knife to cut it into bars. Wrap with parchment paper and store in a Tupperware container. You can dust the bars or balls with cacao, rose or cinnamon powder for added flavor and benefits. If you have any delicious syrups you can drizzle it over them or add it in the beginning to be mixed in. Another option is to melt some chocolate and dip them into it for a delicious, healthy aphrodisiac treat.
Stami-Nuts
Stamina-Nuts are a blend of nuts, seeds and ovaries (fruit) which nourish the reproductive organs and the heart. Mix all ingredients and eat as a trail mix.
2 ounces longan berries, 2 ounces mulberries, 1 ounce lycii (goji) berries, 2.5 ounces pecans (1 cup), 1.5 ounces pumpkin seeds (1/2 cup) and ½ ounce almond (1/4 cup)
Optional: add ¼ cup cacao nibs
~Recipe from Christa Sinadinos, Herbalist
Sensual Body Care Recipes
~
Nourishing Oil Infusion~
1 part calendula, roses
½ part lavender, rooibos
Melt 1/3 part coconut oil in a double boiler or crock pot. Add 2/3 part of other oils(s) such as almond, jojoba, apricot, sesame, safflower, etc. You can avoid the coconut oil but I like to use it for its silky-like consistency and benefits for the skin. Add the herbs and stir well. Make sure all herbs are completely saturated and free flowing in the oil. Let the herb gently infuse on the lowest temperature setting for 1-2 hours. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain using muslin or cheese cloth, squeezing as much of the oil out as you can. I like to add a splash of rosehip seed oil and vitamin E oil for their nourishing benefits and to help preserve the oil. Add anywhere between 4-6 drops of your favorite aphrodisiac essential oils per ounce of oil.
Sensual Massage and Body Oil
Use the Nourishing Oil Infusion above as a body oil for really dried skin by applying it on damp skin after a bath or shower. The oils will trap the water and help deliver it into the deep tissues resulting in soft and moisture rich skin your partner will not be able to resist. Use this oil for sensual massages between you and your partner.
Loving Yoni Lube
Use the Nourishing Oil Infusion above as a natural lubricant but avoid adding any essential oils to it with the exception of 1-2 drops of organic rose otto essential oil per 4 ounces of oil.
*Do not use with condoms as the oil may reduce their effectiveness.
Sexy Cream & Silky Smooth Body Butter
You can convert the Nourishing Oil Infusion into a decadent salve by adding butters to it. Shea, mango and cocoa butter are great for a smoother and softer consistency which can be used body wide. When making a softer cream, I like to use shea or mango butter. Scoop them into a bowl and use a mixer to whip them on high speed until they become soft, airy and creamy. While the mixer is still going slowly drizzle the Nourishing Oil Infusion into it. I like to use 1 ounce of shea or mango butter by weight for every 8 ounces of oil by volume to create a creamy and soft consistency which can be used body wide, including the face.
If you are interested in making a firmer body butter add the strained oil back into the double boiler or crock pot to stay warm on the lowest setting. Weigh out ½ ounce each of shea butter and cocoa butter for every 4 ounces of infused oil by volume. Add the butters to the oil and stir occasionally until they are melted and mixed together. Add any sensual essential oils at this time and pour the mixture into jars. Allow to cool and solidify. Use to nourish and moisturize the skin creating a soft and silky texture which will be irresistible. The aroma from the essential oils will waft from your body enticing your partner to be close and sensual.
Sugar & Salt Scrubs
Take a jar a fill it ¾ of the way full with equal parts Pink Himalayan salt (fine) and sea salt (fine). Mix the salts until colors are blended well. Pour the Nourishing Oil Infusion from above into the jar until it fully covers the salts. Add 3-4 drops of your favorite aphrodisiac essential oil or blend which is considered safe for the skin. Gently mix with a wooden skewer until blended well and to release any air bubbles. Use during or after baths, showers and saunas to help remove dried skin and to smooth rough skin. The scent from the essential oils will linger and waft from your body.
Sensual Spritzers
Take a 4 ounce glass spray bottle and add 3 ounces of filtered, distilled or spring water. Add 1 ounce of your favorite hydrosol. I personally love rose, basil or sandalwood depending on the oils I plan on using. Then add around 24-28 drops of your favorite sensual essential oil blend. If you plan on using a precious and expensive essential oil with a strong fragrance such as rose, use 4-6 drops instead.
Mist the aroma on your body, in the bedding or spray throughout the room. The scent will temporarily linger, providing aphrodisiac benefits with every breath.
About the Author:
Candice Brunlinger has been studying and practicing herbal healing since 2004. Her passions include making herbal medicine, developing connections with plants, cooking, growing herbs, gardening, wild crafting, practicing tai chi and qi gong and being an "herbal mama". She has a small clinical practice and an herbal product line, Herbal Infusions. She has a passion for teaching and does herbal classes and workshops in the community. Candice is inspired by plants and integrating a holistic lifestyle. You can visit her blog at Nourishing Herbs blogspot or become a member of her facebook group "Herbal Living" at www.facebook.com/groups/herballiving/.
References:
1) Botanica Erotica - Arousing Body, Mind and Spirit by Diana De Luca; Copyright 1998
2) Aromatherapy: The Complete Guide to the Healing Art by Mindy Green and Kathy Keville; Copyright 2009
3) Law of Attraction Haven; "Love Affirmations"
http://www.law-of-attraction-haven.com/louise-hay-affirmations-love.html
4) The Chopra Center; "What is Ashwagandha?" By Jenna Saunders
http://www.chopra.com/ccl/ashwagandha#sthash.4XkmBrBt.dpuf
5) Herb Wisdom; "Muira Puama"
http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-muira-puama.html
6) Home of Ayurveda; "Shatavari - Ayurveda's Gift to Women"
http://homeofayurveda.org/shatavari-ayurvedas-gift-to-women/
7) Salisbury University; Herbal Remedies - "Yohimbe"
http://www.salisbury.edu/nursing/herbalremedies/yohimbe.htm
~Other Upcoming Classes and Conferences~
Festival of Herbs Classes at the Dandelion Herbal Center
Class time: 10am-4pm
Location: Dandelion Herbal Center in Kneeland, CA
To register or for more information call
707-442-8157 or visit
Tuition $295 per class weekend
March 5 & 6, 2016: Jessica Baker, LAc, Dipl OM, RH (AHG)
The Roots of Chinese Medicine:
In this class you will deepen your understanding of Western Herbalism and be introduced to the ancient teachings of Chinese Medicine. Beginning with shamanism and an energetic approach to healing with herbs, we will follow the evolution of herbalism in Chinese Medicine. We will discover which Western herbs are part of the materia medica in China and explore how varied their uses can be. In class we will make a traditional decoction for colds, tasty herbal snacks, a therapeutic salve, and a trauma liniment based on the Shaolin monk martial arts formula. You will deepen your relationship with your favorite herbs and meet new herbal allies, too!
April 2 & 3, 2016: Kathleen Harrison, Ph. D.
Global Ethnobotany with a Local Focus:
A 4-part series taught over the course of the weekend, it covers patterns and techniques of ethnobotany in many cultures, including examples drawn from our region's indigenous history. Kathleen can't help but roam through history and speculate on what it all means.
May 7 & 8, 2016:
Amanda McQuade-Crawford, BA, DipPhyto, MNIMH, MNZAMH, RH (AHG), MCPP
Women's Health:
Depending on participants' interests, we can dive deep into current research on HPV Vaccines, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Fibroids, Cysts, and Menopause (always something new to say). Healthy aging includes heart health, sex, osteoporosis, cognitive changes, and depression.
Weight Loss without Tears:
Consumers know the standard advice to eat less and walk more--sounds straightforward but is an epic fail. Without hope and self-love, changing weight for the better permanently does not occur. Obesity is a disease of excess storage, but it's a myth that exercise alone will cure the condition. For kids, adults, elders: there are some approaches we can recommend in good faith.
Healing foods for Common Conditions:
The practical herbalist knows food is our medicine. Profound and affordable benefits can be achieved for clients living simply, whether or not they struggle with finances. From Arthritis to to MRSA (antibiotic-resistant infections) to Zoonoses (creepy-crawlies), update your skill set with mostly familiar allies (and perhaps a few new ones).
Arcata Community Center
Arcata, California
This conference will present growing details, clinical pearls and the research on Cannabis. Presenters are international, national and local experts that will utilize substantiated research and experience to advance your knowledge base on Cannabis to the next level. It is important that consumers, growers, and our medical providers can make more educated and effective decisions concerning the medicinal applications of cannabis.
Donald Abrams, MD; Tara Bluecloud, Herbalist; Michael Fratkin MD; Martin Lee, Author; Jude Nagel, Herbalist; Bryan Willkomm, Patient Avocate; Ethan Russo, MD; Anthony Smith, Ph.D; Dustin Sulak, DO; and more!
Topics will include:
Cannabis and Cancer Care, Palliative Care and Cannabis Use, Successful Organic Methods for Cannabis Cultivation, CBD: The Anxiolytic, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-cancer Non-Euphoric Cannabinoid, Analytical Analysis of Cannabis: How, When, Why?, Solving the Cannabis Dosing Dilemma, Endocannabinoid Physiology, Palliative Care and Cannabis Use,
Smoke Signals: The Great American Pot Story, Healing Preparations with Cannabis, The Tao of Healing: Holistic Medicine & Cannabis Therapeutics, The Influence of Cannabis on the Psyche: The Good, Bad and Ugly
And once again Humboldt Herbals is proudly sponsoring this must-attend event!!
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