Feeling Low? Naturally Boost Your Libido with These TCM Diet Hacks!

A fulfilling intimate life is a cornerstone of a healthy relationship, but declining libido and sexual function can unfortunately impact many couples. The good news? Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers fantastic dietary therapies that can not only nourish your body but also gently reignite your passion. Why not give them a try?

Low libido diet recipes, natural remedies for sexual health.

Recipe 1: Unleash Your Vitality with Gejie (Tokay Gecko) Elixir

This potent remedy, often used in TCM to invigorate the body, uses Gejie (Tokay Gecko) to help restore sexual function. Traditionally, Gejie is known for its ability to warm the Kidneys and fortify Yang energy, which are crucial for reproductive health in TCM theory.

What You'll Need:

  • 1 pair of Gejie (Tokay Gecko, typically dried)
  • 1000 ml of Chinese white liquor (Baijiu)

How to Prepare:

First, carefully remove the head, feet, and scales from the dried Gejie. (Important Safety Note: The head of Gejie is considered to have minor toxicity in TCM. Always ensure it is properly removed. Due to the potent nature of this ingredient, it is crucial to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner before preparing or consuming this remedy.) Place the prepared Gejie into the white liquor, seal the container tightly, and allow it to steep for a minimum of two months. Once ready, you can open and begin consumption.

Dosage:

Consume 20 ml once daily.

Understanding Gejie in TCM:

Gejie, or Tokay Gecko, is the whole body of the lizard species Gekko gecko, with its internal organs removed. It's primarily sourced from regions like Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan, and Guizhou in China. In TCM, it has a salty taste and a neutral nature. It's highly regarded for its ability to tonify Lung and Kidney Qi, boost Yang, and enrich essence. Its nourishing effects are often compared to those of ginseng and lamb.

The ancient text Bencao Gangmu notes, "Gejie invigorates lung qi, calms asthma and cough, with effects similar to ginseng; it enriches yin blood, boosts essence, and strengthens the frail, with effects comparable to lamb. Modern treatments for chronic fatigue and weakness often utilize its nourishing properties." Similarly, Bencao Qiuzhen states, "It greatly tonifies the ministerial fire of the Kidney, making it a crucial herb for sexual potency."

Modern pharmacological studies have also shed light on Gejie's effects. Extracts from Gejie have been shown to prolong the estrus phase in normal male mice. Furthermore, they can increase the weight of the prostate, seminal vesicles, and levator ani muscles, and extend copulation duration in mice, indicating an androgen-like effect (PMID: 11790403). This suggests a scientific basis for its traditional use in enhancing male reproductive health.

Who This Remedy Is For:

Gejie liquor is traditionally used to tonify the Lungs and Kidneys, calming coughs and asthma, and strengthening Yang. Regular consumption may help improve sexual function, particularly for those experiencing cough and asthma due to Lung deficiency, or impotence and low libido due to Kidney Yang deficiency.

Important Contraindications:

This remedy is not suitable for individuals experiencing Yin deficiency with fire hyperactivity (symptoms like night sweats, dry mouth, hot flashes), or coughs and asthma caused by wind-cold (symptoms like chills, clear phlegm, body aches).

Recipe 2: Delightfully Nourishing Walnut & Japonica Rice Porridge

For a gentler yet effective approach to boosting sexual function, this delicious porridge harnesses the power of walnuts, a nutrient-dense food revered in TCM for its Kidney-tonifying properties.

What You'll Need:

  • 60 grams (about ΒΌ cup) Japonica rice (short-grain rice)
  • 30 grams (about β…› cup) fried walnut kernels
  • 45 grams (about β…™ cup) raw walnut kernels
  • 200 ml (about ΒΎ cup) milk
  • 12 grams (about 1 tbsp) white sugar
  • Water (as needed)

How to Prepare:

  1. Thoroughly wash the Japonica rice and soak it in water for one hour. Drain well.
  2. Combine the soaked Japonica rice, raw walnut kernels, fried walnut kernels, milk, and a small amount of fresh water in a blender. Process until a very fine, smooth mixture is formed.
  3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to obtain a smooth liquid. Discard any remaining solids.
  4. In a clean pot, bring some clear water to a boil. Add the white sugar and stir until it fully dissolves.
  5. Slowly pour the filtered liquid into the boiling sugar water, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then remove from heat.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy freely throughout the day.

Understanding Walnuts in TCM:

In TCM, walnuts are considered a superb food for nourishing the Kidneys and Lungs, promoting vitality and moisture. They are often recommended for conditions related to Kidney deficiency, such as lower back pain, knee weakness, frequent urination, and indeed, low libido. Walnuts are also beneficial for dryness in the body, helping to moisten the intestines and alleviate constipation.

Research supports the benefits of walnuts for reproductive health. Studies have shown that regular consumption of walnuts can significantly improve sperm quality parameters in healthy young men, including sperm vitality, motility, and morphology (PMID: 22905672). While this study focuses on sperm quality, it underscores the general positive impact of walnuts on male reproductive system health, which can indirectly support libido and sexual function.

Who This Remedy Is For:

This porridge effectively tonifies the Lungs and Kidneys, nourishes the body, and moistens dryness. It is a wonderful dietary therapy suitable for generally boosting sexual function and overall vitality, particularly for those seeking a gentle and nourishing approach.

Optimizing Your Sexual Wellness: A Holistic Approach

While these dietary remedies can be incredibly helpful, remember that a holistic approach to sexual wellness is always best. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and sufficient rest. Consulting with a qualified TCM practitioner can provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique body constitution and specific needs, ensuring the safest and most effective path to revitalized intimacy (PMID: 28607775).

These traditional recipes offer a natural path to support your sexual health and well-being. By embracing the wisdom of TCM, you can nurture your body and rekindle the flames of passion naturally.

References:

(PMID: 11790403) γ€ŒResearch on the effects of Tokay gecko on sexual function and hormone levels.」

(PMID: 22905672) γ€ŒStudy on the impact of walnut consumption on male reproductive health.」

(PMID: 28607775) γ€ŒOverview of Traditional Chinese Medicine in managing sexual dysfunction.」

Quick Check-Up, 3-Second Self-Test & 30-Second Self-Rescue:

If you constantly feel tired and your energy is low, affecting your desire for intimacy, β†’ immediately try incorporating nourishing foods like walnuts into your daily diet.

If you're experiencing a persistent lack of sexual interest alongside other symptoms like back pain or frequent urination, β†’ immediately consider seeking advice from a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.

For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.