Aphrodisiacs are seen by some as a myth, rather than fact – there is no scientific guarantee to whether aphrodisiacs boost sexual arousal. However, there are plenty of natural foods that raise hormone levels and increase the libido of many people. It could very well be a placebo effect – a spike in one’s sexual drive as a result of eating foods that have a suggestive shape or bear a resemblance to a particular body part – but whatever works for you, right? Whilst the libido-boosting effects of strawberries and oysters are rather common knowledge, here are some natural foods that you may not know can act as aphrodisiacs. Everyone is different, but some of these might just do the trick for you!
Asparagus
Asparagus is a key source of vitamin E – known as the ‘sex vitamin’ – and contains high levels of potassium; this can increase the flow of blood and oxygen to the genitals as well as stimulate the production of sex hormones.
Pomegranates
Known as the fruit of love, pomegranates are high in antioxidants. This allows blood to flow more easily to all of your body parts – increasing genital sensitivity. Pomegranate juice also boosts your nitric oxide levels, which reduces arterial plaque and therefore can help with erectile dysfunction.
Basil
Basil’s secret lies within its stimulating scent. Not only does the herb promote blood circulation, but the aroma of basil is said to have aphrodisiac effects. In Roman times, the plant was sacred and symbolic of love.
Celery
Celery is full of androstenone, which is similar to testosterone, therefore it can increase sex drive in men. Androstenone also acts as a pheromone which some people may find attractive, increasing sexual arousal.
Figs
Figs contain high levels of amino acids, which help to boost levels of nitric oxide – this increases sexual stamina and libido in both men and women.
Chilli peppers
Capsaicin, the chemical which makes chilli peppers spicy, stimulates the nerve endings on the tongue; this boosts testosterone as well as releases epinephrine and endorphins, increasing libido.
Avocados
Similar to asparagus, nutrient-rich avocados contain a high concentration of vitamin E which promotes sex hormone production. They also contain vitamin B6, which helps increase testosterone levels and can subdue symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as fatigue, for women.
Watermelon
Watermelon contains the amino acid citrulline, which increases the amount of nitric acid in the body; this increases blood flow and relaxes the blood vessels, helping to stimulate arousal.
Honey
Often seen as a symbol of fertility, honey contains the chemical boron. This assists the regulation of hormone levels and nitric oxide, which improves male erections as well as boosting clitoral erection.