How do I take the tinctures?

Tinctures are typically taken in 3-4ml. doses. Sometimes this is in a single dose, in the hours before sex, like with the formulas #12 and #19, but others you take in daily doses, like #24, the hormone balance formula, and #16.

How often should I take the tincture for best results?

It is best to take them at least weekly, as they tend to build in the system overtime. But some formulas efficacy is contingent on regular, daily doses - like #24 for male virility, or the female fertility formula - and when working with these I suggest people give them a full 6 weeks to really assess their benefit.

Do you make cruelty-free, and vegan herbal tinctures?

I certainly do. I also only use organic, medicinal grade herbs sourced from companies with international quality control standards.

Do they have a taste?

They certainly do. The formulas taste medicinal, yes, but they also taste earthy, woody, nutty and a bit sweet,

How do you ensure the potency and purity of your products?

I source my herbs carefully, and I tincture everything at careful ratios, so they’re really concentrated, potent extracts while still being at a safe dose.

Are there any side effects? Will they affect any medications I may be taking?

The only formula that is important to be careful with is #19. This is clearly stated on the bottle as well, but this is because it contains a strong dose of yohimbe. Yohimbe is a potent male aphrodisiac and performance enhancer, but it can’t be used when there’s any incidence of heart disease or high blood pressure, or in patients where there is use of heart or blood pressure medication of any kind, or MAOIs.

Are there any common allergens in your products?

There are nuts in formula #19 and #12.

Can I take any of these if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

#16 and hormone balance are perfectly safe while breastfeeding.

Where are these products formulated?

Everything is made and formulated in our home studio.

Are your herbs organically sourced or harvested?

The herbs I source are 80% organically farmed to be used as medicine. The other 20% are carefully organically wild-crafted and harvested, where applicable.

Can I take multiple tinctures at the same time?

You can absolutely blend an everyday formula with one that you take just in the hours before sex for a heightened experience.

Which of your tinctures contain alcohol, and why?

Tinctures are by definition alcohol extracts. All formulas aside from #24, are tinctured herbal formulas.

What are aphrodisiacs?

True herbal aphrodisiacs are a class of herbs with quantifiable pharmalogic action that can enhance blood flow to the genitals. These herbs have various constituentss, and secondary properties, so they work in different ways. Some aphrodisiacs tonify reproductive tissue, others can enhance testosterone and other sex hormones. Others can help relax the mind and enhance overall physical sensation.

Do herbal aphrodisiacs actually work?

I contend with an incredible amount of skepticism about herbal medicines here in the United States. This is not the case in many other parts of the world, where physicians often incorporate herbal remedies into their practices. Like pharmaceuticals, different herbs have different degrees of efficacy for different people. But they are often incredibly effective. To simplify this, I like to ask people if they have ever smoked pot, and got high. In which case, the herbs “worked” as intended.

How long do herbal aphrodisiacs take to work?

This depends on the formula, the person, and the herb itself. Aphrodisiacs like Tribulus and Maca work best when taken regularly over time. Others, like Yohimbe and Muira Puama typically generate a response within a few hours. A longer timeframe may be required for those who experience deep-seated or chronic issues.

Why try aphrodisiacs instead of Viagra or Cialis?

Viagra and Cialis can be wonderful pharmaceuticals in the right application. They are PDE-5 inhibitors, which is a mechanism found in herbs as well, and they dramatically increase blood flow to the penis.

What Viagra and Cialis don’t do for libido: work to correct underlying imbalances that may prevent healthy libido function and sexual performance.

What herbs do for libido: create a greater sense of sexual vitality and energy while helping to maintain it as we age.

Are herbs clinically studied?

A common misconception is that there is no clinical data on herbal medicines. This is false! There is thorough data, which I read regularly. The herbs I work with typically perform remarkably in clinical trials, and Sexpot Apothecary strictly uses herbs that possess clinical data tohat supports their efficacy.

There is also something to be said for empirical data, which is essentially history of use. This means that for centuries, various peoples have been using these herbs, conducting clinical observation, and vouching for their efficacy. This specific research and data should not be overlooked, or discounted.

What are your qualifications?

My training integrates traditional and clinical herbalism.

I started making herbal medicine in childhood. I was taught by my German herbalist grandmother. It wasn’t until adolescence that I realized my friends didn’t also make teas and tinctures from local medicinal plants. After high school, I decided to formally pursue the study of herbalism, and completed a one-year intensive at the California School of Herbal Studies, followed by a clinical program with David Winston, enter David’s title here, in New Jersey.

I apprenticed for a group of traditional healers in West Africa; studied Ayurveda in Nepal, and worked alongside a naturopathic physician. I continue to expand my knowledge of herbalism by regularly attending conferences and lectures.

This is an important question that I enjoy answering. Because herbal medicine has been a trending craft in recent years, there has been an overwhelming increase in the number of individuals who dabble in it. Online access to education and resources is a great thing. However, many people who dabble in this realm call themselves “herbalists,” but they lack a depth of knowledge that would enable them to formulate effectively, or make beneficial suggestions for use.

To read more about my background, and the Sexpot Apothecary story, click here.

What is your favorite formula?

My personal favorite is the original Sexpot Apothecary formula, No. 12 - and I love it because of its versatility. No. 12 is specially-formulated to amplify sexual energy, help you access your sensuality, and feel more alive in your sexuality. This herbal aphrodisiac tincture is safe and mild enough for regular use, and it makes a gorgeous addition to a cocktail, a mocktail, or a glass of wine.. I take it all the time.