You are what you eat, and sometimes what you eat can get you in the mood. The bedroom mood. If you fancy a bit of fuel between the sheets, get things going this Valentine’s Day with the help of these aphrodisiac foods. Plenty of these foods have been prized for centuries, eaten and revered since ancient times for their powerful sexual potential. Best of all, they all taste pretty good.
If you’re planning a little fun this Valentine’s Day – or any day of the year – try some of these aphrodisiac foods to take things to the next level! Cook a romantic meal, a delicious dessert, or just add a little booze to throw together the ultimate sexy aphrodisiac cocktail.
8 Aphrodisiac Foods to Get You in the Mood
What is an aphrodisiac?
There are typically four things that can make a food an aphrodisiac. The first criteria is food that is suggestive in shape. Think the classic phallic shaped bananas, asparagus, or carrots. Sometimes, just seeing something that’s shaped like a sexual organ will bring the thought of sex to mind. And you know what happens next!
The second criteria is foods that get blood pumping to your organs or nether regions. These kind of aphrodisiacs can bring on pleasurable sensations that get your body in the mood for some fun. The third criteria are plants that have hormones which stimulate our own hormones and libidos, creating sexual desire in that way. Finally, super healthy plants that promote health, strength, and vigour are also deemed aphrodisiacs. Good nutrition brings good health and high energy, setting the perfect stage for an active and satisfying sex life.
How do aphrodisiacs work for sexual function?
Aphrodisiac foods can work in two ways: some affect the mind to create sexual desire, while others stimulate the body into feeling really good. The aphrodisiac foods in this list will either get the blood pumping down there, produce chemicals or hormones that get us in the mood or relax the mind and lower inhibitions.
All in all, aphrodisiac foods will either bring on sexual arousal, increase your pleasure during sexy times, or help you perform for longer. They do that by stimulating blood flow, regulating hormones, enhancing libido, increasing lubrication, and more. These physiological effects can improve sexual function by influencing blood flow and hormonal balance.
1. Oysters
If it’s good enough for Casanova, it’s good enough for us! Legend has it that the Italian romancer used to eat dozens of oysters a day. They were Cleopatra’s favourite (and she had her fair share of lovers, too!). According to legend, Casanova once even seduced a virgin by slipping an oyster from his mouth to hers. It sounds like a seriously sloppy seawater kiss, but it worked for him. Still, we don’t suggest surprising your lover with an oyster kiss on Valentine’s Day. Scientifically, oysters boost dopamine levels, which govern libido. They’re also high in zinc, an essential mineral for healthy sperm and testosterone levels.
2. Watermelon
This sweet, hydrating fruit is being called the new Viagra, and we’re into it! According to the director of the Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Centre, Bhimu Patil, watermelon has a similar effect on blood vessels as the revered Viagra. Essentially, watermelon increases the amount of nitric acid in the body. This is a chemical that’s responsible for enhancing blood flow, relaxing your blood vessels, and bringing on sexual arousal. Watermelon pumps your blood downwards, right where you want it to be!
3. Dark Chocolate
There’s no better gift you can give yourself (or your lover) than chocolate, and there’s a reason why it’s a favourite on Valentine’s Day! Cocoa was considered one of the most sacred foods during Aztec times, and it was thought to be a source of nourishment directly from the Gods. Cocoa is packed with more antioxidants than green tea and red wine and contains the chemical phenylethylamine, which helps stimulate excitement and well-being in the body.
And according to the Journal of Sexual Medicine, women who eat chocolate every day enjoy a more active sex life than those who don’t. So next time you think twice about reaching for that dark chocolate, give yourself permission – make sure it’s at least 75% cocoa! While dark chocolate has potential health benefits, there isn’t conclusive scientific evidence linking it directly to enhancing romantic connections.
4. Maca
This sweet root vegetable is one of the few natural aphrodisiacs backed by solid scientific research. Known as Peruvian viagra, maca is a libido-boosting vegetable that also helps to increase fertility in women. It has also been shown to help counter the low libido side effects of certain types of antidepressants. Scientific studies have found that feeding maca to rats and mice helped to increase their libido and improve erectile function. A similar study done on humans gave identical results, helping to increase sexual desire and enhance their libido and sexual performance.
5. Bindis
These sneaky summer pests are a precious therapeutic herb used since ancient times! Think twice before you swear at a bindi next time, for these weeds are a herb that’s revered in both ancient Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicines. Also known as Tribulus Terrestris, bindis have a tremendous impact on women’s sexual health and libido.
In a study, 88% of women who were given an extract of the plant experienced significantly higher levels of desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm satisfaction. They’re a one-stop shop for enhancing any sexual dysfunction. Studies have also found that bindis can increase sperm production in rats, improving male sexual function and overall sexual health in men.
6. Pistachios
Pistachios are another ancient favourite that people have snacked on since 6,000 BC. These nuts are delicious, healthy, and stimulating and have been shown to help ease the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. If you’re having trouble getting your blood to that area, try consuming 100 grams of pistachios daily for three weeks. It has been done in a previous study, and men experienced increased blood flow and firmer erections. Who could say no to that?
7. Saffron
Saffron is another one of Cleopatra’s favourites, and it has long been recognised for its effects on sex drive. While Cleopatra chose to bathe in saffron-infused milk to get her dose of this aphrodisiac, you don’t have to resort to such methods. Just a sprig or two will do just fine!
Saffron has been shown to help women experience higher levels of arousal and lubrication. Studies have found that saffron also helps to increase sperm motility in men and can even counter the low libido effects of certain antidepressants. One of the most expensive spices by weight, add a sprig or two to your Valentine’s Day romantic dinners, and you’ll be going all night!
8. Honey
Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used to prescribe honey in Ancient Greece to help. Honey is a symbol of procreation, made during the pollination process (read: birds & the bees, honeymoons – there’s clearly something about honey). Honey also contains boron, which helps increase blood flow during sexual arousal. Eat some honey, and your blood will be pumped straight to your nether regions, making them nice and full when you want them to be.
In the mood for romance? Treat your special someone to a Romantic Dinner experience featuring flowers, champagne, and a multi-course meal filled with aphrodisiac delights.
Conclusion
The quest for natural aphrodisiacs is more than just a culinary adventure—it’s a journey into the heart of ancient wisdom and modern science. While conventional drugs for sexual dysfunction often come with a laundry list of side effects and limitations, natural supplements from medicinal plants offer a promising alternative. These botanicals, revered for centuries, are now being scientifically validated for their potential to enhance sexual function and treat conditions like erectile dysfunction.
Sexual desire is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by hormones, neurotransmitters, and psychological factors. Blood flow is crucial for erectile function, and any disruption can lead to erectile dysfunction, a common issue among adult healthy men. Treating erectile dysfunction often requires a holistic approach, combining lifestyle changes, medications, and natural therapies. Foods like ginkgo biloba and saffron have shown promise in increasing sexual desire and improving sexual performance.
However, it’s important to remember that not all aphrodisiacs are created equal. While some have strong scientific backing, others are supported mainly by anecdotal evidence. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Aphrodisiacs are defined as foods or drinks that arouse sexual instinct, increase pleasure, and enhance performance. While the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, the psychological and sensory experiences associated with certain foods can undoubtedly play a role in sexual enhancement. Mindful eating, focusing on the textures, shapes, and smells of foods, can heighten the sensory experience and potentially boost sexual pleasure.
In summary, while the scientific community continues to explore the efficacy of aphrodisiac foods, there’s no harm in indulging in a healthy, varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods. Not only can this improve your overall well-being, but it can also set the stage for a more satisfying and connected experience with your partner. So, why not spice up your next meal with ancient wisdom and a sprinkle of modern science?