Love Elixir

Herbal tinctures take 6-8 weeks to extract, so if you put this one together immediately, you could cheat and have it out by Valentine’s Day. This year I’ve switched up my recipe and I think it looks very promising (If the smell is any indication, it’s going to be amazing!). There are so many herbs with aphrodisiac properties and depending on the desired effect, you could really go a number of different ways.

This year I’m starting with Damiana, a classic, mild aphrodisiac that has a tonic effect on the nervous and hormonal systems, producing actions similar to testosterone. Damiana is used primarily as a nerve tonic and anti-depressant- meaning it’s going to have a mellowing, soothing effect. To balance these yin-like properties, I’ve added some Yohimbe, a more stimulating, yang-like herb. Yohimbe is a stronger aphrodisiac that increases heart rate and blood flow. In it’s pure form it’s used to treat sexual dysfunction, and has also been used as a diet remedy. Muira Puama, also known as “potency wood” is a South American herb known to…well… I think the name just about explains it. Cardamom, and cinnamon are warming, stimulating herbs and added mostly for flavor.

To make the tincture:

Crush up the cardamom pods so that you have both seeds and shells exposed to your menstruum (the liquid part). Put all of your herbs in a jar and cover them with the brandy so that the herbs are completely immersed, and there is a small amount of liquid at the top. Keep the jar in a cool, dark place. Every few days shake the jar and check on your herbs (remember to think happy, loving thoughts as you shake it- you’re manifesting your love intentions). As the herbs start soaking up the liquid, you might need to add more brandy. If you see that the top is getting dry, add more brandy until you get that small amount of liquid reserve over the top again. After 6-8 weeks, strain the liquid out and put it in small dropper bottles. For a mild effect, take a few droppers full. If you’re looking to howl at the moon, try taking a small shot glass full. **NOTE: Yohimbe increases heart rate! Go easy if you’ve got a partner with a heart condition (or leave it out altogether- better to be safe than sorry.)

3 parts Damiana

1½ parts Yohimbe

1½  Muira Puama

½ part Cardamom

1-2 Cinnamon sticks

Orange Zest

Brandy