The Best Ayurvedic Treatments Of Frigidity

The term frigidity is used for a long-term lack of sexual drive and response. Even though this problem can affect both males and females but it is commonly found in females.

Sexual drive in women tends to fluctuate through the course of life. This is somewhat natural as sexual drive in women is influenced by both physical and emotional changes that include certain factors such as pregnancy, menopause, stress etc.

While low libido or the lack of sexual desire may not be life threatening but it can certainly threaten the relationship.

What are the factors for frigidity?

The factors may be psychological, pathological or physiological.

• Psychological factors include guilt about sexual involvement, fear, anxiety, depression, past sexual abuse etc.
• Physiological factors such as disturbance in the menstrual cycle, lactation, pregnancy, postnatal period, intake of birth control pills etc.

Ayurvedic Concept of Frigidity:

In Ayurveda, frigidity is known as ‘Kaam Shauthalya.’ The female also suffers from mental stress and depression due to frigidity.

There is a branch of Ayurveda known as Vajikaran which deals with the treatment of sexual disorders. It offers solution to minimize the shukra (sperm and ovum) defects and to ensure a healthy progeny.

What is the treatment of frigidity?

The modern treatment of frigidity in females includes hormonal therapy which has own set of risks.

Ayurveda recommends the use of Rasayana drugs for the treatment of frigidity as these drugs modulates the neuro-endocrino-immune system. Vajikaran Rasayan is the special category of Rasayan that are targeted to improve the functioning of reproductive system and enhance sexual function. These act on the higher centre of the brain. Rasayanas also have anti-stress and adaptogenic actions.

But, the Rasayana drugs cannot be prescribed until the individual’s body has been purified. If the body has accumulation of ama dosha (toxins), the rasayanas will not work as intended.

The vajikaran dravyas (concotions) are not limited to the use of herbs alone. These include gold, silver and precious stones to arouse sexual desire, cow milk, gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) etc. to give strength to the reproductive organs and to balance the hormones, the use of herbs such as ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) etc. to improve fertility and to reduce stress and anxiety.

Some herbs useful for frigidity in females are:

There are many herbs and medicines available in Ayurveda that act as a natural aphrodisiac and increase sex drive.

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha is considered as the best herb for frigidity. It has been considered as one of the most important herbs and the best adaptogenic. Ashwagandha is an excellent rejuvenator, a general health tonic and a cure for a number of health complaints. It has been described as Balya, Vrishya and Rasayana in Ayurvedic texts.

• It is a good anti-stressor, nervine as well as sexual tonic.
• Ashwagandha is known to increase blood flow to the clitoris and other organs.
• Ashwagandha Ghrit is an Ayurvedic preparation which is prescribed in the treatment of frigidity.

2. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Shatavari has been used since long in the treatment of sexual problems. This herb is considered as the ‘best friend’ of females.

• It helps in balancing the female hormones and improves stamina and energy levels during sexual intercourse.
• Shatavari is also useful in controlling stress levels.
• Besides increasing energy levels, it also helps to regulate the levels of female hormones.
• The herb is believed to possess anti-inflammatory effect on the sexual organs and promotes healthy ovulation and folliculogenesis.

3. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanica): Cinnamon is a wonderful spice having medicinal qualities.

• It is a very potent herb that can treat the problem of frigidity.
• Cinnamon helps in improving blood circulation in the pelvic region and useful in various sexual dysfunctions.

4. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris): Gokshura herb is known to stimulate androgen receptors in the brain making the female’s body much responsive to testosterone and other sex hormones.

Some Home Remedies for frigidity in women are:

1. Almonds: Almonds are very effective in increasing sex drive.

How to use: Soak the almonds in water overnight, peel the skin the next morning and take them with milk. You can also prepare almond milk. Take 10 almonds, 1 cup warm milk, a pinch of saffron and a pinch of nutmeg. Add almonds and other ingredients in warm milk and blend them in a blender.

3. Herbal Drink: To prepare herbal drink, take 1part shatavari powder, 1part vidari, 1/8^th part nutmeg, ½ part tagar and warm milk. Add 1 teaspoon of this mixture to a cup of warm milk. For effective results, drink this herbal milk twice a day.
4. Dates: Dates are a highly-strengthening fruit and poses an ability to restore sexual drive. It increases endurance and improves overall vitality.

• Eating dates regularly every morning is useful in combating sexual debility, chronic fatigue.

How to use: Take 4-5 fresh dates, 1 teaspoon of cow ghee, ½ teaspoon ginger, 1/8 teaspoon of cardamom and a pinch of saffron. Soak the dates in a jar of ghee and add rest of the ingredients. Take this mixture regularly.

4. Drumsticks: A soup prepared from drumstick flowers boiled in milk is very useful in frigidity in females. It is also useful in functional sterility in both males and females.

Diet and Lifestyle:

• Include spices such as fennel, parsley, anise in the diet. These spices are known to boost sex drive in females.
• Intake of fresh fruits, almonds, raisins, figs and prunes in the diet.
• Herbs such as nutmeg, cinnamon and fenugreek are warming herbs that increase blood flow in the pelvic regions.
• Mixing dates with milk and cinnamon is a traditional aphrodisiac mixture.
• If female is suffering with mental stress or anxiety, that issue must be addressed.
• Packaged foods, coffee, tea, alcohol should be avoided.
• Get adequate sleep to stay fresh and energized.
• Bathing with relaxing essential oils is also useful.
• Keep a check on stress levels and include Meditation and Yoga in daily routine.
• Body massage with sesame oil helps to revive vigour and stimulates the nerves as well.

Thus, frigidity in women can be overcome by the use of herbs, herbal remedies and changes in diet and lifestyle.

The Best Ayurvedic Treatments for Frigidity (Low Libido)

In Ayurveda, frigidity (or hypoactive sexual desire), commonly referred to as low libido or sexual dysfunction, is often linked to imbalances in the body’s doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, as well as Rasa Dhatu (the body’s fluid or plasma) and Ojas (vital energy or vitality). This condition may manifest as a lack of interest in sexual activity, reduced desire, or difficulty achieving intimacy due to physical or emotional factors.

Frigidity in Ayurveda is viewed as a result of several internal and external factors such as stress, fatigue, emotional imbalance, hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition, or lack of proper lubrication. Treatment focuses on restoring the balance of the doshas, promoting libido, and addressing any underlying health conditions that may contribute to the problem.

Ayurvedic Causes of Frigidity

1. Vata Imbalance: Vata governs movement, including circulation and nerve function. When Vata becomes aggravated, it can lead to dryness, fatigue, and emotional imbalances, all of which can affect sexual desire and performance. Symptoms of Vata imbalance include anxiety, depression, low energy, irregular menstrual cycles, and vaginal dryness.

2. Pitta Imbalance: Pitta governs heat, transformation, and metabolism. When Pitta is imbalanced, it can lead to overheating in the body, causing irritability, anger, stress, and emotional burn-out, all of which can reduce sexual interest. In some cases, Pitta imbalance also affects hormonal regulation, impacting libido.

3. Kapha Imbalance: Kapha governs stability, moisture, and nourishment. When Kapha becomes imbalanced, it can lead to excess weight, sluggish metabolism, and emotional numbness, all of which can dampen sexual desire and responsiveness.

4. Ojas Weakness: Ojas is considered the essence of vitality, strength, and immunity. Low Ojas can manifest as fatigue, depression, and low libido. Ojas is influenced by diet, lifestyle, and mental well-being.

5. Emotional Imbalance: Emotional and mental factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues can also contribute to frigidity.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Frigidity

1. Herbal Remedies

Several Ayurvedic herbs have been traditionally used to promote libido, improve sexual vitality, and balance hormones. These herbs act by stimulating the Reproductive system, improving circulation, and increasing Ojas (vital energy).

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Known as an adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue, while also boosting libido and overall vitality. It is considered one of the best herbs for improving Ojas and sexual energy.

  • How to Use: Ashwagandha can be taken in powder form with warm milk or water, or in capsule/tablet form.

• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): Shatavari is a renowned rejuvenating herb for women, particularly for hormonal balance and reproductive health. It promotes moisture and lubrication, reduces Vata dosha, and supports the endocrine system, thus improving libido.

  • How to Use: Shatavari can be consumed in the form of powder, capsules, or as part of herbal formulations.

• Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris): Tribulus is an aphrodisiac herb that is used to enhance sexual desire and performance. It is beneficial for both men and women and can help in balancing hormones and improving circulation.

  • How to Use: It can be consumed in capsule or tablet form or in powdered form with warm water.

• Vidarikand (Pueraria tuberosa): Known as an effective rejuvenative for women, Vidarikand helps balance the Kapha and Vata dosha, boosting fertility and libido. It also nourishes the nervous system and promotes vitality and energy.

  • How to Use: Vidarikand is available as powder or in capsule form.

• Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii): While not traditionally Ayurvedic, Maca is often incorporated into Ayurvedic formulations for its ability to boost sexual desire, vitality, and hormonal balance. It also helps improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.

  • How to Use: Maca root can be taken as a powder mixed with milk or smoothies.

• Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum): Tulsi, or Holy Basil, is a powerful adaptogen that helps reduce stress and balance hormones, which can help improve sexual desire and overall well-being.

  • How to Use: Tulsi tea or capsules can be used daily.

2. Dietary Recommendations

Diet plays a crucial role in restoring balance and enhancing libido. Ayurvedic dietary recommendations for frigidity focus on nourishing the reproductive tissues, promoting circulation, and boosting Ojas.

• Increase Healthy Fats: Foods rich in healthy fats such as avocados, ghee, coconut oil, and nuts help nourish the reproductive system and enhance sexual vitality.

• Spices for Stimulation: Cardamom, saffron, ginger, and cinnamon are warming and stimulating spices that can help balance Vata and Pitta, improve circulation, and promote a healthy libido.

• Include Aphrodisiac Foods: Dates, almonds, pomegranates, and dark chocolate are considered natural aphrodisiacs in Ayurveda and can help stimulate sexual energy.

• Warm, Moist, and Nutritious Foods: Incorporate warm, moist foods like soups, kitchari, and porridge made with ghee and spices to nourish the body and promote vitality.

• Hydrate Well: Drinking warm herbal teas like ginger tea, rose petal tea, or peppermint tea can promote circulation and detoxification.

3. Lifestyle and Stress Management

• Yoga and Pranayama: Gentle yoga and breathing exercises (pranayama) like Ujjayi breathing and Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) can help reduce stress, balance Vata, and improve circulation to the reproductive organs. Specific poses like Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose), Supta Baddha Konasana, and Matsyasana (Fish Pose) are helpful in improving pelvic circulation and relaxing the nervous system.

• Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes overall health, reduces stress, and helps maintain a healthy weight, all of which contribute to improved sexual function and desire.

• Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for restoring Ojas and maintaining sexual health. Lack of sleep can lead to hormonal imbalances, stress, and fatigue, all of which can reduce libido.

• Self-Massage (Abhyanga): Regular self-massage with warm, nutritive oils such as sesame oil, coconut oil, or bhringraj oil can help calm Vata and promote circulation, which can enhance sexual vitality.

• Herbal Bath: A warm herbal bath with calming herbs like lavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can help soothe the nervous system and promote relaxation and emotional well-being.

4. Emotional Healing and Relationship Support

• Therapy or Counseling: Emotional factors like stress, anxiety, and relationship problems can significantly impact sexual desire. Seeking therapy, whether through counseling or relationship coaching, can be extremely beneficial in addressing these issues.

• Cultivate Emotional Intimacy: Fostering emotional intimacy and open communication with a partner can significantly improve sexual desire. Ayurveda recognizes the importance of mental and emotional well-being for physical vitality.

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to treating frigidity, focusing on the balance of the doshas, enhancing sexual vitality, and addressing both physical and emotional health. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Tribulus work in synergy with a nourishing diet, stress management practices, and lifestyle adjustments to improve libido and sexual health. It is always advisable to consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized treatment, especially if frigidity is due to an underlying health condition.

Frigidity (or Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder), characterized by a lack of sexual desire or arousal, is a condition that can affect both men and women. In Ayurveda, frigidity is often seen as a result of imbalanced doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, as well as physical, emotional, or psychological factors. Ayurveda believes that sexual health is deeply connected to overall vitality (ojas), balance of doshas, and hormonal harmony.

Causes of Frigidity According to Ayurveda:

1. Vata Imbalance:

   • Vata dosha is responsible for movement, circulation, and energy in the body. An imbalance in Vata, often caused by stress, exhaustion, or mental turmoil, can lead to reduced sexual desire. When Vata becomes aggravated, it leads to dryness, nervousness, and lack of vitality, affecting sexual health.

2. Pitta Imbalance:

   • Pitta dosha governs metabolism, passion, and heat in the body. An aggravated Pitta can lead to emotional stress, frustration, anger, or emotional trauma, which may lower libido and desire.

3. Low Ojas:

   • Ojas is the essence of vitality and sexual energy in the body. A depletion of ojas due to poor diet, overwork, lack of sleep, or stress can lead to reduced sexual vitality and frigidity.

4. Excessive Heat (Pitta):

   • In cases of excessive heat in the body, especially due to stress, overwork, or a heated environment, it can result in sexual fatigue, loss of sexual desire, or a lack of passion.

5. Emotional Factors:

   • Emotional trauma, depression, stress, or relationship issues can cause a significant reduction in libido and contribute to frigidity. Psycho-emotional factors play a central role in sexual desire according to Ayurveda.

6. Hormonal Imbalance:

   • Hormonal imbalances, often caused by conditions such as thyroid problems, menopause, or perimenopause, can lead to a decrease in sexual desire.

7. Excessive Sexual Activity:

   • Overindulgence or excessive sexual activity can deplete the vital energy and lead to a reduction in sexual desire, as the body’s energy reserves (ojas) become weakened.

8. Dietary Factors:

   • A poor or unbalanced diet that depletes nutrients, particularly healthy fats, proteins, and micronutrients, can affect overall vitality and lead to a lack of sexual desire.

9. Aging:

   • Aging naturally causes a decline in sexual desire, as hormone levels, particularly estrogen and testosterone, start to decrease.

Symptoms of Frigidity According to Ayurveda:

• Low or absent sexual desire.

• Lack of sexual arousal or responsiveness during intimate moments.

• Physical dryness, especially vaginal dryness in women, due to Vata imbalance.

• Fatigue, mental exhaustion, and emotional withdrawal.

• Emotional stress and feelings of frustration or inadequacy.

• Inability to experience pleasure during sexual activity.

• Apathy or indifference toward intimacy or sexual relationships.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Frigidity:

Ayurvedic treatments for frigidity aim to balance the doshas, restore vitality, and improve libido and sexual health. These treatments combine herbal remedies, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and mental wellness practices to enhance sexual desire and restore hormonal harmony.

1. Herbal Remedies:

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

  • Properties: Adaptogenic, rejuvenating, balancing.

  • Benefits: Ashwagandha is a potent adaptogen that helps reduce stress, balance Vata, and improve vitality. It enhances sexual function, reduces anxiety, and improves overall energy levels, making it a top herb for increasing sexual desire.

• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus):

  • Properties: Cooling, nurturing, hormone balancing.

  • Benefits: Shatavari is a well-known rejuvenating herb for women, balancing Pitta and Vata doshas. It enhances sexual vitality, improves libido, and supports hormonal balance, especially in women, by improving reproductive health and energy levels.

• Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris):

  • Properties: Aphrodisiac, hormone-balancing.

  • Benefits: Tribulus is a powerful herb that enhances testosterone levels in men, increasing sexual desire and performance. It also supports Vata and Pitta balance, improving libido and sexual vitality.

• Damiana (Turnera diffusa):

  • Properties: Aphrodisiac, energizing, mood-enhancing.

  • Benefits: Damiana is known to increase sexual desire and improve stamina. It helps balance Vata and Pitta by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, making it particularly effective in treating frigidity related to emotional factors or stress.

• Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris):

  • Properties: Aphrodisiac, rejuvenating.

  • Benefits: Gokshura is a potent herb for enhancing libido and sexual energy. It helps support reproductive health and balance Vata and Pitta doshas, improving sexual vitality.

• Maca (Lepidium meyenii):

  • Properties: Adaptogen, energizing, aphrodisiac.

  • Benefits: Maca root is used to increase sexual energy, balance hormones, and improve libido. It enhances overall vitality and stamina, which can help combat frigidity caused by physical exhaustion or hormonal imbalances.

• Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi):

  • Properties: Calming, balancing, rejuvenating.

  • Benefits: Jatamansi is used to relieve stress and anxiety, reduce Vata imbalances, and enhance mental calmness. It supports sexual health by soothing the nervous system and improving sexual desire.

2. Ayurvedic Oils for Sexual Vitality:

• Bhringraj Oil:

  • Properties: Rejuvenating, cooling, and balancing.

  • Benefits: Bhringraj oil is beneficial for restoring vitality and nourishing the body. A gentle scalp massage with this oil may help improve circulation and energy levels, contributing to increased sexual vitality.

• Ashwagandha Oil:

  • Properties: Adaptogenic, calming, revitalizing.

  • Benefits: Ashwagandha oil can be used for a full-body massage to rejuvenate and revitalize the body, reducing stress and promoting sexual health.

• Saffron and Rose Oil:

  • Properties: Cooling, rejuvenating, and aphrodisiac.

  • Benefits: Massage with a blend of saffron and rose oils helps calm the mind, relax the nervous system, and increase sensuality, promoting intimacy and improving libido.

3. Ayurvedic Treatments for Stress and Emotional Health:

• Yoga and Meditation:

  • Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and pranayama (yogic breathing exercises) to reduce stress and mental fatigue. Regular yoga can increase circulation, balance hormones, and enhance sexual vitality by reducing emotional blockages.

• Abhyanga (Self-Massage):

  • A regular Abhyanga with warm herbal oils helps balance Vata and Pitta doshas, reduce stress, and improve energy flow in the body. It promotes relaxation and enhances sexual vitality by improving circulation and reducing tension.

• Shirodhara (Oil Pouring Therapy):

  • Shirodhara, where warm herbal oils are gently poured over the forehead, helps reduce stress, calm the mind, and rejuvenate the nervous system. This therapy helps enhance emotional well-being and sexual vitality.

4. Dietary Recommendations:

• Increase Ojas-building Foods:

  • Incorporate foods that build ojas, such as ghee, milk, nuts, seeds, and sweet fruits like dates and pomegranates. These foods support overall vitality and sexual energy.

• Avoid Excessive Spicy and Sour Foods:

  • Foods that are excessively spicy, sour, or salty can aggravate Pitta and lead to emotional stress or digestive imbalances, which can reduce sexual desire.

• Consume Aphrodisiac Foods:

  • Include apricots, bananas, asparagus, saffron, and almonds in the diet, as they are considered aphrodisiac foods that can enhance sexual vitality.

• Stay Hydrated:

  • Drink plenty of herbal teas such as ginger tea, peppermint tea, and cinnamon tea to improve digestion, reduce Pitta, and enhance sexual vitality.

5. Lifestyle Recommendations:

• Adequate Sleep and Rest:

  • Ensure you get enough rest and sleep, as both are crucial for maintaining healthy energy levels, reducing stress, and supporting sexual vitality.

• Exercise Moderately:

  • Regular exercise, particularly yoga or walking, can improve blood circulation, reduce stress, and boost energy levels, which can enhance libido.

• Avoid Overwork and Stress:

  • Avoiding overwork and excessive stress is crucial for maintaining Pitta and Vata balance and ensuring a healthy, vibrant sexual life.

Conclusion:

In Ayurveda, frigidity is treated by addressing the root cause of the dosha imbalance—typically excess Vata or Pitta—and focusing on enhancing vitality, balancing hormones, and reducing stress. By incorporating herbal remedies, Ayurvedic treatments, a nourishing diet, and lifestyle changes, it is possible to restore sexual desire and energy. For a personalized treatment plan, it is always advisable to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner who can assess your specific needs based on your dosha constitution and **health