Ginseng and Saffron. Oysters and champagne. Chocolate-covered strawberries... 

For centuries, certain foods and drinks have been touted as aphrodisiacs (natural “mood-enhancers”) guaranteed to ignite passion and heighten desire! But are these claims simply folklore and old wife’s tales, or is there some scientific truth behind them?

Let’s find out!

The History of Aphrodisiacs:

The term "aphrodisiac" comes from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of luuurve. For millennia, cultures around the world have sought out food and drink believed to enhance sexual desire.

Ingredients like oysters, rhino horn (though absolutely not recommended!), and exotic spices were prized for their supposed aphrodisiac properties…

Science vs. Sizzle:

Sorry to all you foodies out there, but modern science paints a somewhat…less magical picture. There's no single "magic bullet" food or drink guaranteed to supercharge your libido. However, certain ingredients might indeed play a role in “setting the mood”:

• Blood Flow: Certain foods, like those rich in nitrates (think dark chocolate, watermelon, and leafy greens), can improve blood flow, which can indirectly contribute to arousal in both men and women…

• Mood Enhancement: Foods containing zinc (oysters!), B vitamins, and healthy fats can contribute to overall well-being and energy levels, thus potentially and indirectly impacting the libido.

• Psychological Aphrodisiacs: The act of dining together, savouring delicious food, and enjoying a romantic atmosphere can be incredibly arousing. Presentation matters!

• Placebo: And of course, there’s the “placebo effect”; believing a certain food is an aphrodisiac and thus feeling “the effects”.

The Real Recipe for Romance:

While aphrodisiac foods can add a playful touch to a romantic evening, a healthy libido has so much more to do with your overall well-being than a single meal. Here are some key ingredients for a truly fulfilling sex life:

• Stress Management: Chronic stress wreaks havoc on hormones and desire. Prioritise relaxation techniques like meditation or taking long, hot baths and thoroughly unwind.

• Communication is Crucial: Open and honest communication with your partner about your needs and desires is the foundation for any truly fulfilling sex life.

• Physical Intimacy: Regular physical touch, cuddling, and intimacy can keep the spark alive and help to maintain a healthy connection with your partner (and the ‘self’).

Pioneers of Pleasure Exploration:

Sure, aphrodisiac foods might not be a magic bullet heading towards guaranteed sexual arousal, we can think of a few “magic bullets” that certainly can! Get your hands on a high-quality vibrator and feel your way back to one another through mutual exploration…

The Final Course

The verdict? Aphrodisiac foods can be a fun addition to a romantic evening, but don’t put all your proverbial eggs in one basket! Instead, prioritise your overall well-being (and that includes both of you), practise honest and open communication, and engage in regular intimacy (physical or otherwise) for a truly love-packed and fulfilling sex life.

Now go forth, light some candles, enjoy a delicious meal together, and see where they night leads you!