There are so many reasons why a woman's libido can be low and so there are a lot of different remedies.  It is important to get to the root cause.  

Maybe you are stressed, maybe it is tiredness, it could also be an hormone imbalance, so always look at the root cause and never assume.

Herbs that can boost the libido:

1. Damiana - Tunera diffusa - This south american herb aids the blood flow to the pelvic area and can aid in the reduction of stress in the body.  The increased blood flow can aid sensitivity in the genital areas therefore increasing pleasure.
2. Maca -  Maca has long been a popular herb for libido, this being the no 1 reason it was bought in health shops.  The herb is native to the Andes in south America and it's high levels of Iodine and Zinc help to support a balanced hormone profile. 
3. Ashwaganda - This herb is used mainly in ayurvedic medicine, it is mentioned in the Karma Sutra for it's libido enhancing properties.  It is thought it's main power comes from increased blood flow to the female sex organs and therefore increases sensation and satisfaction.
4. Avena Sativa - oats - this is not one you would think would heighten libido, intact it is usually used for its calming properties, but Avena has been know to increace vaginal stimulation.  It is also said to improve both the physical and emotional desire for sex.  So ladies start eating your porridge.
5. Suma - Another South American herb.  It is becoming clear why the tango is a south american dance.  This herb is also known as Brazilian ginseng.  It is thought to stimulate the libido and aids in balancing the female hormones.
6. Dark chocolate - over 70% cocoa dark chocolate can help to improve sexual experience due to dopamine.  It can aid in the increase levels of dopamine in the body, our feel good hormone.

So if you are struggling with your sex drive, there is help.  Make sure you visit a qualified Herbalist if you wish to take any herbs and get professional advice. (you could start by eating dark chocolate now )

Constipation in Toddlers

1)  Ginger, mint, or chamomile tea with a little raw honey between meals in your child’s bottle or cup.

Grate some fresh ginger root into a teapot, fresh mint or chamomile herbs. Add boiling water, cover and let steep for 10 minutes. Pour into a sieve and serve when tea has cooled sufficiently.

 

2) Fruit and Veggies –

This add bulk and fibre for the stools.  Hide in sauces or casseroles, soups etc.

 

3) Juice of life –

Juice for your child – more vegetables than fruit to alkalize the juice.  This add digestive enzymes in a live form to help break down the food

 

4) Water, Water, Water –

Water is one of the key ingredients for a healthy digestion.  Make sure the majority of water is consumed in between meals and not with meals.

 

5) Probiotics –

Probiotics will help to re balance the gut flora and in turn help with either constipation or diarrhea

 

6) Good oils –

Fish oils (nod cod liver), krill oil, udo’s oil, coconut oil, olive oil, rapeseed oil.  Use goo oils in your cooking, add it to meals.  Mashed avocado is another good one for toddlers

 

7) No more processed –

Cut out the processed food – this tends to be high in wheat, sugar, dairy and chemicals and is lacking the nutrients your child needs.  This includes cereals – swap for porridge, fruit salad with goats yoghurt, muesli, eggs etc.

 

8) Cut down the red meat-

Red meat is notoriously hard to digest so cut it down, use more fish, chicken and eggs for protein

 

9) Swap white for brown –

Use brown rice instead of white, use sweet potatoes instead of white, if eating wheat swap white to a course wholegrain bread



Keep it simple and natural :)

Do you have young children?  Are they fussy eaters?

It's not easy, but you've got to remind yourself that a temper tantrum is far shorter lasting that ill health.

It is a long game :)  Gradually introduce foods and remove the rubbish over time.  

Don't get into an argument, remember you are the boss, this is not a terrorist negotiation, you do not negotiate :)

Keep it fun

Get the children involved, let them pick from a variety of foods for the week.

Make time for cooking good food or you'll soon find you have to make time for the doctor.

Try to give them the same as you.

Remember they need smaller portion sizes

Hide the veggies wherever you can - sauces are good

Get a juicer!  

You're doing an amazing job, don't beat yourself up. 

It will be hardest at the beginning of any change don't give up.

Remember "if you are going through hell, keep going!"