Since the beginning, lovers have been looking for ways to spice up their sex life. And since the beginning, lovers have combined food and sex. Check out our blog post HERE about sex and food. Another way we have evolved to combine food and sex is through aphrodisiacs. Aphrodisiacs, named for the Greek goddess of love herself, Aphrodite, are foods or substances reputed to help with sexual arousal or prowess.

Although some aphrodisiacs are scientifically proven to be effective, some are only effective as far as reputation and the placebo effect. Either way, aphrodisiacs are a fun way to spice up things in the love department, sometimes literally!

Seafood as an aphrodisiac is a direct reference to Aphrodite, who rose from the sea, seafood is often tied to sexual arousal. Oysters especially are known to put diners in the mood for love. Shrimp, salmon, clams, and mussels all enjoy this sexy status.

Chocolate is also seen as an aphrodisiac. This is probably a main reason chocolate is a top gift for Valentine's Day! Chocolate contains chemicals which increase serotonin levels, aiding in elevated mood, which can aid in sexual enjoyment.

Asparagus, apart from it's suggestive shape, is a good source of vitamin E. Vitamin E has been shown to increase levels of sex hormones in the body.

Chili peppers can literally help you spice it up. Spicy food helps to increase blood flow, making the body more sensitive to touch.

Pomegranate is known as the "love apple". Besides its becoming red color, it is high in antioxidants. Studies have shown antioxidants increase blood flow, which is the same function as drugs such as Viagra or Cialis, just on a smaller scale.

Bananas, again beside the obvious phallic shape, are reputed to help in the bedroom. Bananas are high in potassium, which help build muscle strength and stamina. So stock up on bananas before that marathon night of love.

Caviar is linked to fertility. Literally hundreds of fish eggs, it has long been assumed to increase sexual arousal and fertility.

Avocados were literally called "tree testicles" by the Aztec culture. While the aphrodisiac properties were more than likely attributed to avocados due to this resemblance, they are packed with healthy fats and are delicious.

Garlic is a little unlikely as an aphrodisiac at first glance. Despite the negative effect on the breath of your lover, garlic does increase blood flow, which we have discussed before as a positive for your erogenous zones.

Honey is not just a sweet term for your sweetheart. Honey is rich in B vitamins. Vitamin B aids in testosterone production. It also contains Boron, which helps the body metabolize estrogen. Fun fact, mead, a wine made from honey, was drunk by newlywed couples every day for the first month of marriage in some ancient cultures. This is the origin of the term "honeymoon".

The list of aphrodisiacs could go on and on. Next time you are at the grocery store, look around for foods that could heat things up for you and your partner or partners.

Badd Kitty also carries certain oils, fragrances and stimulants with aphrodisiacs and pheromones added for extra enhancement.

Wikipedia

The Independent

Web MD