Reviewed by Dr Nurul Aishah Jamaludin

Valentine’s Day: 7 Spicy Gifts to Boost Intimacy

Published February 1, 2023| 3 min read

Gifts like chocolate, cards, and flowers are usually top of mind for Valentine's Day. Why not consider libido-boosting herbs to spice up sexy time?

Smiling man closing a woman’s eyes while holding a gift box in his left hand as she reacts with surprise while sitting on a sofa.

It’s no secret that Malaysians love Valentine’s Day. According to Mastercard’s Love Index, Malaysians spent 23% more from 11 to 14 February.

Why not go beyond the usual chocolates, cards and flowers this Valentine’s Day? Spice up sexy time with our pick of intimacy-boosting herbal ingredients, perfect for a day dedicated to love. If we’ve got your attention, read on to discover what they are.

Valentine’s Day Gift Options That Boost Libido Naturally

Did you know that your kidneys have much to do with sexual health? In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a person’s Kidney qi (vital life force) and jing (essence) is associated with libido. This means most Chinese herbal aphrodisiacs boost, strengthen and enhance them. Here are the most common aphrodisiac herbs:

Cordyceps

A tonic with extracts of this medicinal fungus is known to fortify a man’s jing. It is also known to boost stamina and strength. No wonder Cordyceps (dong chong xia cao, 冬虫夏草) is so highly sought after!

Cistanche

Typically known as an antioxidant and neuroprotectant, cistanche (rou cong rong, 肉苁蓉) is also hailed for improving sexual ability and fertility. Men, in particular, benefit from its ability to synthesise testosterone.

Morinda root

A study shows that Morinda root (ba ji tian, 巴戟天) extract improved sperm quality, increased testosterone production and protected sperm from damage. Women can also use this herbal ingredient to suppress menstrual cramps.

In TCM, Morinda root can nourish the Kidneys, restore yang (active energy) and eliminate Wind and Dampness.

Panax ginseng

Older folks have long benefitted from Panax ginseng‘s (ren shen, 人参) stress relieving and aphrodisiac qualities. Younger men, on the other hand, can enjoy its sperm count and testosterone-boosting benefits. Combining panax ginseng with other ingredients can also elevate one’s sex drive by addressing Kidney Deficiencies, such as a lack of yang (active energy) or jing.

Fenugreek

An ancient herb, fenugreek (hu lu ba, 胡芦巴) is known for its effects on energy levels and overall wellness. A study of men given 600 milligrammes (mg) of fenugreek daily for six weeks found that they experienced significantly greater levels of orgasms and sexual arousal.

Horny goat weed

Considered a safer alternative to prescription medication for low libido and erectile dysfunction, horny goat weed (yin yang huo, 淫羊藿) is also a very popular aphrodisiac.

In TCM, horny goat weed is by nature, warm and pungent. Real Health Medical’s Senior physician Brandon Yew explains, “It strengthens Kidney yang (warm energy) and the Kidneys govern sexual reproductive functions.” It can be consumed on its own or blended with other herbs.

Maca root

This ancient herb is known to increase energy, libido levels and vitality. A study revealed that maca root (ma ka gen, 玛卡根) also helps boost sexual vigour in post-menopausal women.

There’s no better time than Valentine’s Day to get your sexy time on. With the help of these spicy, libido-boosting gifts, there’s no doubt that you and your partner will be thanking us all the way to the bedroom. And if you’re trying for a Rabbit or Dragon baby, this article might prove useful. But before heading to your nearest TCM store, speak to a licensed TCM practitioner to avoid potential contraindications.