This is our third and final installment of our libido-boosting Valentine’s Day series. If you think your sex drive isn’t as strong as it used to be, the following six tips will help you rev up your arousal engine.

The depressant qualities of alcohol can result in reduced sex drive, erection quality and orgasmic function.

1. Decrease the Booze

Although some may think alcohol is a great aphrodisiac, thanks to its inhibition-lowering properties, that’s a myth. One drink may get you warmed up; however, more than one and alcohol’s depressant qualities begin to take effect. Too many drinks and you’ll experience a loss of erection quality and even the ability to orgasm.

Smoking narrows blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the genitals.

2. Stop Smoking

Besides the numerous other health benefits to kicking this bad habit, a boost in your sex drive is one that many people enjoy after they quit. Smoking causes your blood vessels to narrow and restricts blood flow. Reducing blood flow to your penis not only reduces your sex drive, but also negatively effects your erection quality.

Excess weight has both mental and physical effects on your libido.

3. Lose Weight

Being overweight can both physically and a mentally decrease your libido. Extra bulge around that belly can make you self-conscious and less confident — putting a damper on your sex drive. Physiologically, extra weight often leads to arterial disease, reducing blood flow to vital parts of your body, including your genitals.

A massage can reduce stress, anxiety and anger and put you in the mood.

4. Get a Massage

Stress is a leading cause of sex drive loss. A great massage, in a softly lit room, can reduce stress, anxiety and anger, and put you in the mood.

Herbal supplements, like gingko biloba, can boost your sex drive.

5. Go Herbal

There are several natural herbs that can help give your libido a jump start.

• Yohimbine – has been used in Africa as an aphrodisiac for centuries.
• Horny Goat Weed – can help improve your erection quality and enhance your libido.
• Korean Ginseng – stimulates blood flow and enhances arousal
• Mucuna Pruriens – also known as ‘velvet bean’ helps boost sex drive and improve stamina.
• Gingko Biloba – is known to not only increase blood flow to the brain, but to the genitals as well.

Caffeine’s stimulant effect can increase anxiety levels and decrease your sex drive.

6. Cut Back on the Caffeine

That morning coffee may get you going, but it could also be damaging your sex drive. Caffeine is a stimulant, which can exacerbate underlying anxiety issues you may have. Increased anxiety = reduced libido.