A List of Aphrodisiacs and
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Here's a great list of aphrodisiacs and food for love.
The human pursuit of aphrodisiacs, in many forms, is as ancient as history. Scientific research has confirmed that, in some cases, certain aromas can evoke more of a stimulative effect on the body than does the actual ingestion of foods. Some aphrodisiacs that work can be found right in your kitchen! You can stock your pantry with the ingredients for lots of romantic dinners while providing some stimulation for after dinner romance.
Many of our favorite recipes for romantic foods and meals are from The Seduction Cookbook: Culinary Creations For Lovers.
Here are some common aphrodisiacs and foods of love used through the ages:
Chocolate
We often think of chocolate as an aphrodisiac which is the reason we traditionally give a box of chocolate candy to our valentine. This "food of the gods" contains serotonin that tells the brain to make us feel good, a stimulant called phenylethylamine, considered by some as a "love chemical" because it gives us a feeling of excitement similar to endorphins that give us a natural high. For the most sensuous experience, indulge in creamy-textured dark chocolate.
Strawberries
The most sensual fruit on the list of aphrodisiacs is, without doubt, the strawberry. Shaped like a heart, the strawberry is a perfect treat for love...a fruity valentine. There is a legend that says that if you slice a strawberry in half and share it with someone to whom you are attracted, the two of you will fall in love! If you combine strawberries and chocolate, as in chocolate dipped strawberries, you truly have food for love!
Bananas
This suggestively shapely fruit, with a creamy lush texture, has
been considered a symbol of male fertility in many cultures. The banana is loaded with energy-producing nutrients including with potassium, magnesium, B vitamins and three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose. Bananas also contain chelating minerals and the bromelain enzyme, said to enhance male libido.
Pineapple
The delicious pineapple is considered by homeopathic practitioners to be a treatment for impotence and an effective aphrodisiac. Pineapple is sometimes mixed with honey and rum to provide a stimulating drink believed to increase the energy for passion.
Almonds
Almonds have been considered to be fertility symbols since antiquity. The aroma of almonds is believed to arouse passion in women according to the poets and scribes. Legend says that Samson wooed Delilah with these tasty nuts. Almonds provide high doses of vitamin E and magnesium which cana improve sense of well-being.
Avocados
Avocados are believed to be aphrodisiacs for both males and females. They have a voluptuous feminine shape and, while growing, hang in pairs on the tree in a way that resembles male testicles. The creamy fruit of the avocado is good for pregnant women because of its high folic acid content as well as vitamin B6 and potassium.
Asparagus
This is another food that many have thought is an aphrodisiac because of its phallic shape. Asparagus has more than just a suggestive appearance. It is rich in vitamin E, which may stimulate production of sex hormones and be essential for a healthy sex life. Asparagus was served to 19th century bridegrooms due to its reputed aphrodisiacal powers.
Eggs
Egg are among the most ancient fertility symbols we find on any list of aphrodisiacs. Eggs are high in vitamins B6 and B5, which help balance hormone levels and relieve stress. Raw eggs consumed before a romantic encoounter are believed to enhance libido. Do be aware, however, that eating raw eggs is not considered safe due to salmonella concerns.
Oysters
Oysters are a favorite erotic food. Oysters have probably been on every list of aphrodisiacs since they were first appreciated by the Romans. Research shows that these shellfish are a rich source of zinc — a mineral required for the production of testosterone. As well as being the hormone that enhances male sex drive, testosterone is believed to stimulate female libido as well.
Figs
These sweet, purple fruits are sexy in both appearance and texture and were said to be Cleopatra's favorite food. In erotic literature figs have often been used as a metaphor for the female sexual organ. Ancient Greeks considered them to be "more precious than gold" and many cultures associate figs with fertility.
Some of the more exotic foods on the list of aphrodisiacs include:
- Caviar: high in zinc, which stimulates the formation of testosterone, maintaining male potency and sexual health.
- Truffles: possibly due to their rarity and musky aroma, they have long been considered to arouse the palate and the body.
- Foie Gras: one of the most luxurious foods, foie gras is expensive, decadent and sought the world over. It is associated with fine living. Its buttery texture is sure to put you in an amorous mood.
A list of aphrodisiacs to flavor
your romantic recipes:
- Honey: seducers in Medieval times plied their partners with Mead, a fermented drink made from honey. Lovers on their "honeymoon" drank mead as it was thought to "sweeten" the marriage.
- Garlic: has lots of medicinal advantages. The heat in garlic is said to stir sexual desires.
- Mustard: one of the oldest aphrodisiacs known, it is believed to arouse the sexual nerves and increase desire.
- Nutmeg: a favorite aphrodisiac among Chinese women. Nutmeg in large quantities can create a negative psychoactive effect so use in small amounts.
- Vanilla: the scent of vanilla seems to stimulate both male and female libido. It likely is an aid to the central nervous system which will improve the mood for lovers...and put them in the mood for love.
- Basil: This fragrant member of the mint family has an alluring aroma; so alluring, in fact, it can cure headaches! No wonder the Greeks regarded it as a royal herb. Basil has a warming effect on the body and promotes circulation.
- Chili Peppers: the pepper's heat comes from "capsaicin," a chemical that stimulates nerve endings, raises our pulse and making us sweat. Eating hot foods also triggers the release of endorphins, body chemicals that give us a natural high that is conducive to love-making.
- Pine Nuts: Used to maintain male potency, rich in zinc that helps to stimulate male potency.
- Onions: believed by many to restore sexual vigor.
- Radishes: considered a divine aphrodisiac by Egyptian pharoahs, most likely because their spicy flavor stimulates the palate.
Other spices and flavorings could be added to this list of aphrodisiacs, however these are those most people consider to be among the aphrodisiacs that work "as advertised."
A "drinkable" list of aphrodisiacs:
- Coffee: caffeine is a mood enhancer and can help create the perfect ambience for love and romance. Rich, dark coffee may stimulate both your mind and body.
- Alcohol: lowers inhibitions and increases confidence; however, over-indulgence has a sedative effect not conducive to a romantic tryst.
- Champagne: is viewed as the "drink of love." In moderate quantities it lowers inhibitions and causes a warm glow in the body.
- Wine: can enhance a romantic situation as can other alchoholic beverages.
If you abstain from alcohol, remember the old poem that begins: "drink to me only with thine eyes." The personal look of love is far more stimulating than any food or drink.
Now think about how you can take this list of aphrodisiacs and cook up some romantic meals.
Related Links:
Food For Love
Chocolate as an Aphrodisiac
Creative Romantic Gift Ideas
Free Relationship Test
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