6 Easy Steps to Spice up Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and as it quickly approaches, we wanted to give you a list of things to help make it a day you won't soon forget. But between work, the kids, the dog and the other little things life throws at you, we wanted to make it simple. All of these items are easy to find and incorporate into your last minute Valentine's Day plans. But we've saved the best part for last, each of them pack a good punch of natural love – everything you need for a Valentine's Day success.

Chocolate – We have some fabulous news regarding the most exchanged gift on Valentine's Day – it's an aphrodisiac. But, there are some things you have to know in order for this to apply. The chocolate has to be over 70% coco (or cacao, as some say) in order for it to have enough serotonin and dopamine to promote the 'feel-good' chemicals in our brain. Dopamine is a neurochemical directly associated with sexual arousal and pleasure. It is also said that dopamine is increased in our brains when we are in love, and even more so during an orgasm – making it a great addition to your Valentine's Day plans. Try nibbling on some as you sip some red wine by the fire. If you want to get extra heated, try dark chocolate with chili flakes (also an aphrodisiac) or sea salt, which will compliment your red wine nicely. 

Tribulus – We can practically hear you say, “Ummm, what?” but rest assured, this may be your new go-to. While Tribulus isn't the most well-known herb at our store, it does have quite a reputable past. For centuries it has been used for its libido enhancing properties. And the best part, its good for both men and women. Tribulus (also known in-store as TNT) has been shown to increase libido, treat impotence and maximize endurance by stimulating the hormone, testosterone. Because of its endurance capabilities, it is not uncommon to find this herb in a more manly package, if you were worried about the dreaded checkout counter glances. And if you look at the ingredients carefully, you may even find a Tribulus that is combined with Maca – which is our next suggestion for a happy happy Valentine's Day.
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Maca – Maca, not to be confused with Matcha the Japanese green tea, is a ground up root commonly found in Peru. Maca has been consumed by peruvians for thousands of years due to it's ability to improve stamina, libido and fertility. But it doesn't stop there. Maca is a terrific natural source of energy, and the plant helps to regulate and restore ideal hormone balances in both sexes. It can also help reduce stress, and because it doesn't have a huge amount of caffeine you'll still be able to enjoy it's benefits and get a good nights rest after all the love this day pertains.
For extra brownies points on Valentine's, try mixing a scoop of Maca in a tantalizing smoothie for two. This is our favourite: with bananas, strawberries, almond milk, cashews, maca powder, vanilla and cinnamon. 

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Love Lube – Not all gifts have to be consumed, and this gift is a perfect example. Love Lube was created by Lorna Vanderhaeghe, as a latex-friendly lubricant that can be used during sexual intercourse or for personal lubrication. Naturalists can jump for joy because Love Lube is non-toxic, water based and even better, it does not become sticky when in use. It also contains Turnera diffusa leaf extract – an extract that is known to reduce stress (especially after a long work-week) and increase sexual function. Besides it's typical use, the added grapefruit seed extract helps to restore normal vaginal balance and inhibit harmful vaginal bacteria – making it secretly good for her. It's a great natural way to spice things up!

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Heart Health – Because Valentine's Day is all about love, and love comes from the heart, we thought- what better way to treat yourself on this special day then to make sure you have life-long heart health. Try making more time to keep you healthy this Valentine's Day by hitting the gym in the morning. Exercise is a great way to maintain a healthy weight, pair this with a heart healthy diet and practise it daily and you'll be taking one huge step in the right direction. Adding vitamins that support your cardiovascular system, such as a Vitamin B Complex, or other minerals and vitamins such as CoQ10, Calcium and Magnesium can help as well. You can read more about Heart Health here.

Rose Oil – Nothing screams romance like roses. And with Rose Oil, there really is endless romance in store for Valentine's Day; you just have to get creative. Draw a bubble bath for two and drop in some rose oil, the scent and warmth will help you relax together. Try adding a few drops to a lotion of your choice and give a sensual massage. The harmonizing blend of rose petal extract and rose essential oil promotes a feeling of balance and well-being. The scent itself is both floral and sweet, like that of a dozen roses. Because it takes a lot of rose petals to make this essential oil, it is a little more costly, but Valentine's Day is a time to treat yourself and each other with something you can enjoy for the whole year following. For products, click here.