From: [e-mail] Newsgroups: alt.folklore.herbs Subject: Re: love potion #9?) Date: Sat, 14 Jan 1995 23:01:44 GMT Damiana is a traditional (Mexican, I think) aphrodisiac for women, taken as a tea an hour or so beforehand. Schizandra berries are a Chinese herb known for tonic, energizing properties and aphrodisiac effects. John Bidleman, in the letters column of a recent Mondo 2000, says "Schizandra is known to cause excitement to the female genitalia and increase the stamina of men....25 of the small berries held in the mouth (five at a time) and swallowed...enhance the effects of marijuana....Many people report a sudden awareness of the flow of Chi about their body and a gentle yet pleasurable stimulation." Schizandra is also synergistic with cannabis and increases the aphrodisiac properties of the latter (an effect I can confirm from personal experience.) Brondashe is an African aphrodisiac herb for men, which Urb Magazine recently reported on. When smoked in a pipe, it alleviates physical and psychological impotence. The article says brondashe also has positive tonic and energizing properties and even helps shy people loosen up socially. No one I know has tried this herb yet, but we're going to. More information is available from Craig Davis, c/o Herbal Essence Distribution Co., P.O. 7104, Colver City, CA 90233. Yohimbe is supposed to be another aphrodisiac, but it's so expensive I've never tried it. Many herbs are reputed to be aphrodisiacs when used aroma therapeutically, e.g. rose, patchouli, ylang ylang, jasmine, ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla (hence their use in perfumes). I find patchouli to be most effective in promoting a relaxed, sensual mindset. Diana B.