Aphrodisiac

What is an aphrodisiac?

An aphrodisiac is a substance that increases sexual desire, sexual attraction, sexual pleasure, or sexual behavior. Substances range from a variety of plants, spices, foods, and synthetic chemicals. Therefore, they can be classified by their chemical properties (i.e., substances that are natural and unnatural).

Where the name come from?

The name “Aphrodisiac” is derived from the name of the Greek goddess of love, “Aphrodite.” Aphrodisiacs are prevalent in history, dating back to ancient times where people would try and improve their sexual experiences through the use of food and other substances.

A list of Aphrodisiac Foods, Spices, and Fruits. 

Ginger

Known for its many medicinal properties, ginger also has aphrodisiac effects. According to many users, it increases the libido and fulfills sexual life.

Vanilla 

Little known for its explicit aphrodisiac virtues, it is said, however, that the seeds located inside of the vanilla bean have euphoric properties. Nothing better to increase libido!

Cinnamon 

Just like red chili pepper, cinnamon has exciting components. Needless to draw a picture about the aphrodisiac virtues that come along!

Cayenne Pepper 

Very stimulating, cayenne chili pepper possesses true virtues in the acceleration of blood flow.

Cloves

Cloves would be one of the most powerful natural aphrodisiacs: indeed, they are used against mental or physical fatigue. They can be used by lovers who feel a little loss of power.

Saffron

Used in ancient medicine, saffron was known for its aphrodisiac properties because it could be as powerful as some hormones.

Maca

This fleshy root, that grows high in the Andes under harsh conditions, was consumed by ancient shepherds and their livestock alike. Called “food of the gods” by the Inca, Maca is reputed to boost fertility and arousal. Several studies have backed up these claims. Now most commonly ground into a powder and added to oatmeal or smoothies, it boasts ginseng-like properties like increased strength, energy, libido, and stamina. It’s also been used as a natural treatment for hormone imbalances, especially during menopause.

Oysters

Oysters are probably the most common food that is considered to have aphrodisiac properties. They are full of minerals and nutrients that fuel sexual desire.
Oysters have a very high zinc content, which helps to improve the production of sperm and also increases libido. They also contain amino acids that are said to improve the production of sex hormones.

Asparagus 

Similar to bananas, it’s probably the shape of this food that earned it its reputation as an aphrodisiac. However, also similar to bananas, it takes a lot more than just looking a certain way and asparagus does deliver more than its suggestive appearance. One of the best health benefits that asparagus offers is a high dosage of vitamin E, which is essential for hormone production but also does wonders for your skin. Steroid glycosides are compounds that are found in asparagus which have been studied and found to help improve hormones that affect reproduction. Asparagus also comes packed with a lot of fiber and folate, which is essential for the health of the female reproductive system and sperm.

Olives

Olives, especially olive oil, have been used for centuries for their many health benefits. The Greeks believed that these aphrodisiac foods made men more virile as well.
Olives come packed with antioxidants, which help improve blood flow and hence sexual experience. They are also a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are critical for a healthy heart, blood flow, and hormone production.
All of these can also directly work toward enhancing one’s sexual experience. Not to mention that the overall health benefits of olives are numerous and being healthy is one of the most important factors of having a healthy sex life.

Bananas

Probably considered the world’s most suggestive food for its phallic shape, the banana does a lot more for sexual desire than just looking a certain way. Banana’s fruit is packed full of nutrients that are considered essential for sexual hormone production. It comes rich in potassium and B vitamins and is a great source of fiber. Bananas have also been known to aid in lowering blood pressure and contain the chemical tryptophan, which is said to promote relaxation. Bananas also contain the enzyme bromelain, which triggers the production of testosterone.
These qualities make bananas a great addition to the menu for aphrodisiac foods that can help you enhance your sexual experience.

Figs

Figs have a romantic scent and texture, but those aren’t the only things that make figs a perfect treat for lovers. They are rich in amino acids, which are known to increase stamina, as well as iron and potassium. Their reputation a romance food permeates through history, and they’ve been written about by poets and literature for centuries. It’s even said that figs may have been the fruit that caused original sin in the Garden of Eden, rather than apples!

Sweet Potatoes

These starchy veggies are packed with fertility boosting vitamin A, found in the beta carotene which gives them their orange color. They are also rich in vitamin C which boosts energy and fights aging, as well as potassium and iron which promote healthy blood pressure. When you pair its benefits with its phallic shape and soft (cooked) texture, you get an aphrodisiac that has multiple benefits.

Truffles

The aphrodisiac quality in truffles lies largely due to their aroma, which is said to mimic the male pheromone androsterone. Their rarity and delicious taste add to the romantic effect, making truffles the perfect ingredient for a date night meal. Aside from that, they’re high in protein which promotes stamina and energy.

Watermelon

According to Texas A&M University’s Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center discovered that watermelon contains enzymes that relax the blood vessels in the groin and may even increase libido! The phytonutrient, citrulline, is contained mostly in the melon’s rind, but researchers are working to develop a fruit with higher concentrations in the flesh of the fruit.

Almonds

Known as a fertility symbol for years, the almond has also been said to have aphrodisiac qualities. They’re rich in essential fatty acids (omega-3 fats), which are needed to produce testosterone, as well as vitamin E, magnesium and fiber. Aside from that, their scent has been rumored to arouse passion in women as well as men.

Arugula

While it’s not one of the first foods that comes to mind when thinking of romance, arugula is a medically validated natural aphrodisiac. Also called rocket, this leafy green is a popular ingredient in salads and on sandwiches. It’s been used as an arousal aid since ancient Greece, but modern-day science backs up these claims. The trace minerals and antioxidants in the plant have been known to block environmental contaminants that can harm libido. Additionally, a study at Al-Nahrain University in Iraq found that arugula leaf extract boosted testosterone levels in mice. This qualifies the ancient superfood as one of the most potent aphrodisiacs on our list!

Pumpkin

It turns out eating pumpkin seeds with your lover might be a great start to a romantic evening. They’re high in zinc, which is needed for testosterone production and helps increase libido in both men and women. As further evidence, The Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago discovered that the scent of pumpkin pie increased blood flow in men’s nether regions and amorous desire in women. Other scents that had a similar effect were licorice, doughnuts, and lavender.

Vanilla

Vanilla has been long regarded as a food of passion, with historical figures like Queen Elizabeth and Madame du Barry allegedly using the scent in their boudoir. Taste and smell are large parts of the reason vanilla is seductive, as its odor is known to reduce drowsiness, increase muscular energy, improve circulation, stimulate arousal, decrease stress and have a euphoric effect on the brain. It helps create a feeling of comfort and peace, which encourages a feeling of safety and intimacy.

Basil

Aside from being a flavor-booster in Italian cuisine, basil has been known as a symbol of love since the Roman times. In modern times, basil has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties and its libido enhancing nutrients. It contains high levels of vitamin A, beta carotene, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. All nutrients that promote a healthy love life!

Celery

One of the lesser-known aphrodisiacs, celery is actually a potent vitality booster that’s made many appearances throughout history. In Homer’s Odyssey, when Calypso captures Odysseus for a five-year affair, her home is surrounded in wild celery. It’s also another food that is credited to giving Giacomo Casanova his legendary stamina. The root of these legends is androsterone, a pheromone found in the scent of celery. In addition, celery contains numerous vitamins and minerals beneficial to sexual (and overall) health!

Cherries

Cherries have been known as passion boosters for years, with their beautiful red color and delicate skin. Often paired with chocolate, they are an even more exotic treat because they are only available one season out of the year. Aside from that, cherries have been said to boost pheromone production and promote healthy blood flow, both of which are great for your love life.

Chili Peppers

If heat is synonymous with passion, then chili peppers are certainly an aphrodisiac. Chili peppers contain the chemical capsaicin, which generates the heat they give off–the hotter the pepper, the more capsaicin it contains. Capsaicin is known to boost testosterone levels and increase libido. Chili peppers also have the ability to release endorphins, natural painkillers and your bodies response to the capsaicin. When eating chili peppers, your heart rate rises and your body temperature elevates, having a thermogenic effect on the body. All of these can enhance the erotic experience.

Chocolate

The Aztecs used to ingest cocoa to stimulate desire, and emperor Montezuma was said to have ingested them in large quantities to fuel his love life. Today, chocolate is gifted on first dates and anniversaries regularly, and is known for being one of the world’s most romantic foods. Science validates its reputation, as it contains chemicals known to boost arousal. Tryptophan, a building block of serotonin (the feel-good chemical), can be found in cocoa, as well as phenylethylamine, a stimulant related to amphetamine. Both chemicals are released when a human is in love! Make your date feel extra special with rich chocolate truffles.

Cinnamon

Perfect for cold winter nights, cinnamon can be used in both sweet and savory dishes and has been valued for centuries for its curative properties. While its aroma promotes relaxation, it also boasts anti-viral properties and might even be able to control blood pressure and improve alertness! It’s also packed with antioxidants which promote a healthy love life! Boiled in a warm beverage or served in a yummy dessert, cinnamon can be a great addition to a romantic evening.

Tribulus
Tribulus terrestris, also known as bindii, is an annual plant that grows in dry climates.
Producers of supplements often claim that it can boost libido.
Studies have suggested that it may raise testosterone levels in some animals, but science hasn’t proved that it can increase testosterone levels or fertility in humans (8, 9). Limited evidence suggests it may help boost sexual function and desire in males and females (10, 11, 12).

Bottom line:
If you are interested in giving aphrodisiacs a try, you may want to start with small amounts and increase the dosage based on your personal tolerance. Also, it’s important to note that natural aphrodisiacs may interact with some medications. If you’re currently taking medication, make sure to check with your healthcare provider before giving these foods and herbs a try. Pregnant or nursing check with your healthcare provider.

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aphrodisiac
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/aphrodisiac-foods#Well-known-aphrodisiac-foods-that-are-not-backed-by-strong-scientific-evidence
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aphrodisiac
https://www.eatwell101.com/best-aphrodisiac-spices-for-valentines-day-dinner-natural-aphrodisiac-spices-list-for-dinner-recipes
https://www.eatwell101.com/best-aphrodisiac-spices-for-valentines-day-dinner-natural-aphrodisiac-spices-list-for-dinner-recipes
https://maleextra.com/blog/aphrodisiac-foods/
https://www.berries.com/blog/aphrodisiac-foods
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/aphrodisiac-foods