Aphrodisiacs

Aphrodisiacs... I’ve heard of them but what exactly is this? According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, an aphrodisiac is a food, drink, drug, scent, or device that, promoters claim, can arouse or increase sexual desire, or libido. OK, I’m sold. Where can I find aphrodisiacs and do they really work? Some satisfied couples swear by them although scientists claim the findings are inconclusive. And, who really cares if it’s a placebo effect as long as it works, right?

Sweet Stuff  

• Chocolate: Scientists established what women have known for centuries – that chocolate is one of the most effective aphrodisiacs available. The sensuous texture of melted chocolate contains a stimulant called phenylethylamine. Phenylethylamine is considered, by some researchers, to be a "love chemical" giving you a feeling of well-being and excitement that is very similar to the endorphins giving us a natural high.

Fruits  

• Peaches: This aphrodisiac is claimed by the Chinese who believe that this ripe, sensual fruit is as engaging to the sex drive as it is to the palate.
• Bananas: Several cultures regard foods, like bananas, as erotic stimulants because of their phallic resemblance. Try Bananas Foster, a flaming dessert dish that combines bananas with rum, butter, brown sugar and ice cream.

Vegetables  

• Asparagus: You may not like all the biological aftereffects of asparagus, but its phallic shape has made asparagus one of the more sensual vegetables. Despite its suggestive form, asparagus happens to be rich in vitamin E, a vitamin considered to stimulate the production of our sex hormones and may be essential for a healthy sex life.
• Cucumbers: According to recent research, these phallic-shaped, cool vegetables are known to stimulate a woman’s olfactory senses.
• Onions: Onions are one of the oldest-known, edible aphrodisiacs used in ancient Hindu, Egyptian and Arabic kitchens. Share a bowl of French onion soup with your lover, or select another delectable aphrodisiac if you’re concerned with the result the onions will have on your breath!
• Damiana: Damiana is a wild yam. Chemical analysis shows that it contains chemicals that can increase sensitivity in the genitals. Damiana also has a reputation for inducing erotic dreams although it has not been proven in clinical trials.

Spices  

• Chilies:  Chilies, curries and other spicy foods have been viewed as aphrodisiacs because their physiological effects of a raised heart rate and sweating are similar to the physical reactions experienced during sex. Chilies contain capsaicin, a substance that makes the peppers hot. Capsaicin stimulates nerve endings to release chemicals, raising the heart rate and possibly triggering the release of endorphins giving you the pleasurable feeling of a natural high.

• Ginkgo: Ginkgo is commonly used for age-related memory loss but is also known to stimulate the release of nitric oxide which widens the blood vessels of the genitals and erectile tissue. Note: Ginkgo shouldn't be taken with blood-thinning drugs or by people with heart disease.

From the Sea  

• Caviar: Fish eggs have been prized by such expert lovers, such as Casanova, as being the ultimate aphrodisiac. It could have something to do with the high protein content. Try a spoonful on a cracker.
• Oysters: Research shows this shellfish to be a rich source of zinc, a mineral required for the production of testosterone. Besides being the hormone behind the male sex drive, testosterone is believed to stimulate the female libido as well.
• Mussels: These mollusks pack a bigger punch (as far as being a rich source of zinc) than their notorious oyster cousins. Try them steamed with garlic and white wine.

Nuts & Nature  

• Pine Nuts: These tiny tree seeds have been used as an aphrodisiac since Roman times. Try it as a pesto sauce on top of pasta.
• Truffles: These rare mushroom-like delicacies are prized by French chefs. It is said that Napoleon and Madame Pompadour ate them for their amatory powers.
• Yohimbine: Extracted from Yohimbine bark, Yohimbine can facilitate erections by stimulating the nervous system and increasing blood flow to the penis. Note:  Common side effects include increased heart rate, raised blood pressure, anxiety and nausea. Available is only available by prescription and should be used under a doctor's supervision.

NOTE: Information compiled from a variety of proprietary and published sources, such as FDA.gov, Discovery.com and MyPleasure.com.