When we love and care for a person, the whole world becomes a blur except for our one true love. The surroundings become magical, and you want to express your love in any and every way possible. Yesterday was Valentine’s Day—the most popular secular holiday—these are the feelings that everyone goes through.
We know you want to make the day special for your loved one. The day of love, of late, has become too commercialized. It’s not all about chocolates and flowers. The best gift you can give your loved one is your time, attention, and the gift of love. We’re sure your loved one will want nothing more than this.
Unfortunately, for many, the rigors of life have left little room for love, desire, and energy for lovemaking. Work pressure and daily household chores will never end. The rigors of life shouldn’t prevent you from expressing yourself to your one true love.
Scientists and many cultures around the world believe in the mood and desire-inducing qualities of certain foods. Lately, mushrooms have emerged as a secret ingredient to promote sexual wellness. Are mushrooms the best natural aphrodisiac you can find today? Let’s find out.
What Are Aphrodisiacs?
An aphrodisiac is a substance, natural or man-made, capable of increasing sexual desire. Additionally, aphrodisiacs are believed to enhance the ability to experience sexual pleasures and improve performance in bed.
The human fascination with substances that boost libido and sexual prowess is not new. Aphrodisiacs are woven into the cultural fabric of several societies, playing a role in ancient rituals for centuries. Foods and herbs with aphrodisiac qualities have been revered as symbols of fertility and sensuality.
Nature has generously provided an array of options, from fruits to herbs to mushrooms. Strawberries are often associated with romance, while spices and chili are believed to ignite passion. Ginseng, for thousands of years, has been used to enhance sexual vitality and boost energy.
Man-made aphrodisiacs, such as perfumes and chocolates, tantalize the senses to create the right mood. However, not all aphrodisiacs are harmless. Unnatural or synthetic aphrodisiacs like synthetic testosterone, phenethylamines, and MDMA (ecstasy) can be addicting, posing a high risk of serious side effects.
Natural aphrodisiacs contain compounds that stimulate the production of certain chemicals or hormones. For example, some aphrodisiacs help relax, maintaining a positive mood. Some substances also induce feelings of euphoria and vitality, providing the individual with the much-needed urge and energy for lovemaking.
In addition to physiological aspects, aphrodisiacs improve blood flow to vital organs, mainly sex organs, leading to physiological arousal.
We have briefly discussed various natural and unnatural aphrodisiacs and touched on their role in improving sex drive and performance. Most of these substances stimulate only one or two physiological or psychological aspects of sexual function, and the effects of most natural aphrodisiacs are temporary.
In contrast, the aphrodisiac properties of mushrooms create a long-term impact. While researchers are still unraveling the aphrodisiac qualities of mushrooms, ancient cultures have known about the mushroom’s ability to ignite desire and passion for a long time. This mysterious elixir called the mushroom is the perfect love potion.
Factors That Affect Your Sex Drive
Sex drive and sexual performance are an interplay of several factors. A combination of psychological, biological, and social factors determines a person’s level of desire. While libido varies from person to person, the factors presented below influence how a person reacts to sensory sexual modalities.
The biological component is paramount in regulating sexual drive. The male sex hormone, testosterone, is the primary chemical contributing to sexual desire and performance in bed. Even in females, a small amount of testosterone is present, influencing female libido. The other major hormone, estrogen, the female sex hormone, regulates sexual receptivity and responsiveness.
The levels of these hormones fluctuate throughout life, affecting libido, fertility, and various other functions. Major life events such as puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, etc., can impact libido.
Additionally, medications and medical conditions can affect sex hormones, thereby influencing sex drive. For example, in women, antidepressants can impact sexual functions such as arousal, libido, orgasm, etc.
Cognitive and psychological factors can significantly impact sexual desire. Mental energy, clarity, motivation, passion, stress, anxiety, mood changes, and depression affect the way a person behaves and reacts to sexual situations and stimuli.
Lack of sex drive in people under 50 can be attributed to chronic stress. Anxiety and stress can increase the release of the stress hormone cortisol, which may interfere with the production and proper utilization of sex hormones. In contrast, a calm and relaxed person may exhibit more interest in sexual activity. Plus, the person may be in better physical and mental health for sexual performance.
A traumatic event, medical event, or similar experiences can also affect psychological health and have a long-lasting effect on sex drive and sex life.
Social, environmental, and lifestyle choices are three other factors that influence the love life. Communication, emotional intimacy, and social behavior can contribute to how you and your partner respond to sexual stimuli. Environmental factors such as pollution, climate change, etc., influence libido by impacting both biological and psychological well-being.
It’s a widely recognized fact that lifestyle choices affect sexual desire and performance. Obesity can lead to poor testosterone levels, hypertension, and other medical conditions that can affect libido, cause impotence, and erectile dysfunction.
Similarly, smoking and excessive drinking can affect blood circulation to sex organs, affecting sex drive and sexual performance. Dietary choices such as consuming foods with high levels of carbohydrates, fats, sugar, and salt can increase the risk of metabolic syndrome, which can affect libido.
Finally, after the sexual peak, sex drive and sex hormones decrease as people age. Some may experience a dip in libido at an early age due to premature aging. Chronic conditions, poor health, metabolic syndrome, and stress are already affecting the youngsters. The decreasing fertility rate and birth rate in Western countries are good examples of this.
Are Mushrooms a Natural Aphrodisiac?
Mushrooms and sex are made for each other. The potential benefits of mushrooms in increasing libido are being discussed a lot on many social media platforms.
In recent years, several startups have launched products with mushrooms that they claim can boost sex drive. Is there any truth to their claims? What does research say about mushrooms as a natural aphrodisiac?
Researchers have found that functional mushrooms have aphrodisiac effects on users. In this endeavor, these mushrooms are also aided by their therapeutic properties. How? You’ll find that out shortly.
Each passing week, researchers are unraveling the mechanisms and pathways through which mushrooms could improve your sex life.
Scientists have found that the incredible ability of mushrooms to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression can enhance libido. It’s claimed that the adaptogenic properties of mushrooms bring the body back to homeostasis.
The regular use of mushroom supplements makes the body resilient to external and internal stressors, resulting in a better mood, sleep, and higher energy levels. Overall, the adaptogens in mushrooms ensure you’re physically and psychologically ready for sex.
Furthermore, mushrooms have had a long relationship with the sex hormone testosterone. While some species decrease testosterone, others such as Cordyceps stimulate its production, making researchers believe that Cordyceps can be an effective treatment for many sexual problems in men.
Most mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides such as beta-glucans. These compounds are potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that prevent premature aging. Additionally, they have immunomodulating properties that prevent infections and reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases that are becoming increasingly common in women.
Beta-glucans are also vital for gut health. They have probiotic properties that improve nutrient absorption from the gut, ensuring the body has adequate vitality for sex.
Additionally, experts believe beta-glucans can lend a hand in improving muscle strength. By reducing fatigue and aiding muscle recovery after training, mushrooms can keep you in tiptop physical health for a long time.
As we saw in the preceding section, sex drive and sexual function are affected by energy levels, mental health, chronic health conditions, age, and several other factors.
The nutrients in functional mushrooms support optimal functioning of the body. The nutrients and active compounds in mushrooms support skin and hair health, ensure blood circulation to the brain and vital organs, enhance cognitive functioning, and provide mood benefits.
Mushrooms That Boost Sex Drive
In 2021, two American scientists, Noah Soule and John Halliday, discovered a mushroom in Hawaii that affected men and women in diametrically opposite ways. While smelling the mushroom induced orgasms in women, men felt disgusted by the smell.
We’ll discuss rare mushrooms more potent than man-made aphrodisiacs another time. We’re more concerned about mushrooms that help both men and women attain their sexual peak. Here are 5 mushrooms you should take regularly to make Valentine’s Day and the rest of the year special.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps, also known as Himalayan Viagra, is a powerful adaptogen and energy booster. Its adaptogenic properties support the body’s fight against stress and anxiety. It calms the mind, improves mood, and makes the user receptive to sexual advances.
Studies show the use of the mushroom enhances oxygen utilization, thereby improving stamina and endurance.1,2 The mushroom further boosts libido by increasing blood circulation to vital organs, which helps improve erectile function.
In addition, cordyceps mushroom supports hormonal balance. It stimulates the production of sex hormones (particularly testosterone) and other key hormones linked to sexual health.
Maitake
Also called the hen-of-the-wood, Maitake is known for its potent antioxidant properties. The mushroom combats oxidative stress and supports cardiovascular health—two factors that play a vital role in normal sexual function.3
The mushroom is rich in beta-glucans that act as immunomodulators, fighting inflammation to help maintain a healthy body. A robust libido is the result of a calm and relaxed body and mind. The adaptogens in Maitake help fight stressors, influencing sexual function.
Shiitake
Like chocolate and strawberries, Shiitake is both delicious and an excellent aphrodisiac. This mushroom is rich in zinc, a vital mineral that can boost blood circulation. In addition, the mineral zinc stimulates cells that produce testosterone.4
The mushroom is also dense in vital nutrients that help you stay in optimal health. The various compounds help regulate cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.5 These properties and functions make Shiitake a valuable ally in the bedroom.
Reishi
Its immense health benefits have earned Reishi the name ‘mushroom of immortality.’ It has been used in several traditional medicinal practices, particularly in China, for thousands of years.
It’s widely known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, fight fatigue and depression, and boost heart health. Reishi’s ability to regulate blood glucose and cholesterol levels makes it an effective weapon against libido-affecting conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.6,7
Studies also show that Reishi influences inflammatory pathways, resulting in better immunity and measured response by the WBC.8,9
Chaga
Chaga is an antioxidant-loaded mushroom that boosts immunity, fights cancer, and regulates LDL cholesterol in users.
Its antioxidant-rich properties indirectly support sexual health by combating oxidative stress, which, if left uncontrolled, can affect physical and mental health.10,11 In the context of sexual health, antioxidants in Chaga could protect reproductive cells that are vital for sexual function and reproductive fertility.
Some experts also claim that the mushroom’s adaptogenic qualities can reduce stress, which is a crucial factor that influences sexual drive and performance.
Final Thoughts
Not too long ago, I met a couple who had been married for 30 years. They exuded a wonderful sense of humor, seamlessly completing each other’s sentences. The happiness and undying love they shared were visible on their faces. I soon realized that, for this couple, every day was like Valentine’s Day.
The numerous health benefits offered by mushrooms make them the ultimate aphrodisiac. Mushrooms not only keep you young and healthy but also provide mood support, optimize sex hormones, and keep you energized and ready for love throughout the year.
References
- Chen, Steve, et al. “Effect of Cs-4® (Cordyceps Sinensis) on Exercise Performance in Healthy Older Subjects: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.” The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, vol. 16, no. 5, May 2010, pp. 585–590, https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2009.0226
- Hirsch, Katie R., et al. “Cordyceps MilitarisImproves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise after Acute and Chronic Supplementation.” Journal of Dietary Supplements, vol. 14, no. 1, 13 July 2016, pp. 42–53, https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386
- Sato, Mayumi, et al. “Effect of Dietary Maitake (Grifola Frondosa) Mushrooms on Plasma Cholesterol and Hepatic Gene Expression in Cholesterol-Fed Mice.” Journal of Oleo Science, vol. 62, no. 12, 2013, pp. 1049–1058, https://doi.org/10.5650/jos.62.1049
- “FoodData Central.” https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168436/nutrients
- Guillamón, Eva, et al. “Edible Mushrooms: Role in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases.” Fitoterapia, vol. 81, no. 7, Oct. 2010, pp. 715–723, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2010.06.005
- Liu, Qian, and Lu Tie. “Preventive and Therapeutic Effect of Ganoderma (Lingzhi) on Diabetes.” Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 2019, pp. 201–215, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-32-9421-9_8
- Chan, Sze Wa, et al. “The Beneficial Effects of Ganoderma Lucidum on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease Risk.” Pharmaceutical Biology, vol. 59, no. 1, pp. 1161–1171, https://doi.org/10.1080/13880209.2021.1969413
- Wang, Xin, and Zhibin Lin. “Immunomodulating Effect of Ganoderma (Lingzhi) and Possible Mechanism.” Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol. 1182, 2019, pp. 1–37, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-32-9421-9_1
- Cheng, Chun-Huai, et al. “The Effects of Two Different Ganoderma Species (Lingzhi) on Gene Expression in Human Monocytic THP-1 Cells.” Nutrition and Cancer, vol. 62, no. 5, 2010, pp. 648–658, https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581003605516
- Slavich, George M. “Understanding Inflammation, Its Regulation, and Relevance for Health: A Top Scientific and Public Priority.” Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, vol. 45, 1 Mar. 2015, pp. 13–14, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2014.10.012
- Kim, Yeon-Ran. “Immunomodulatory Activity of the Water Extract from Medicinal MushroomInonotus Obliquus.” Mycobiology, vol. 33, no. 3, 2005, p. 158, https://doi.org/10.4489/myco.2005.33.3.158