Looking to spice things up? The right foods can help. These aphrodisiac picks are more than just great on the plate—they’re known to bring a little extra heat where it counts. Fun, flavorful, and easy to work into your meals, these ingredients might be just what you need to kickstart the evening.
Maca
Coming from the Peruvian mountains, maca is often called “nature’s Viagra.” It’s known for boosting energy, endurance, and libido. Research backs up its reputation, showing that maca can indeed increase sexual desire without affecting hormone levels directly, making it a go-to for those looking to spice things up naturally. It’s easily added to smoothies, yogurt bowls or oatmeal. You can even blend it into your coffee.
Saffron
Saffron isn’t just a spice for your rice; it’s a mood booster that’s been linked to increased sexual desire. Studies suggest that saffron can improve sexual function and libido in both men and women, making it a prized ingredient in the aphrodisiac pantry. Its magic lies in its ability to enhance mood and reduce stress.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds are not just for curries; they might also help fire up your love life. Studies have shown that fenugreek can help increase libido and sexual performance by boosting testosterone levels in men. Its compounds are believed to stir up sexual arousal and enhance vitality. They’re delicious in a curry but you can also soak and sprout the seeds for salads.
Ginseng
Ginseng, particularly the red variety, is a powerful aphrodisiac that has been used for centuries to treat sexual dysfunction and enhance sexual behavior. Scientific evidence suggests that ginseng may improve erectile function in men and increase sexual arousal in women, thanks to its components that can influence hormonal levels. It’s most commonly enjoyed as a tea.
Pistachios
These tasty nuts are not just a snack; they’re a snack with benefits. Research indicates that pistachios might help with erectile dysfunction thanks to arginine, an amino acid that helps relax blood vessels. This nutty delight is perfect for those looking to improve their heart health. Pistachio crusted meats are a delicious way to get some more in your diet but a handful as a snack is just as delicious.
Tribulus
Tribulus terrestris, often found in health supplements, is touted for its libido-enhancing properties. Some studies suggest that it can improve sexual desire and erectile function by increasing serum testosterone levels.
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, known for its memory-boosting abilities, also has a lesser-known talent: spicing up your sex life. It’s thought to improve blood flow and sexual function, particularly in individuals taking antidepressants. While research is mixed, many swear by its ability to enhance mood and arousal. You can take ginkgo biloba as a pill, extract or tea.
Chocolate
Chocolate is often associated with love and romance, believed to stir desire because it contains serotonin and phenylethylamine, chemicals that can boost mood and pleasure. Despite its reputation as an aphrodisiac, scientific studies have yet to conclusively support this, leaving it more a treat for the heart than a proven libido booster.
Figs
Figs, with their unique shape and sweet, delicate flavor, have long been symbolized with fertility and love. This fruit’s association with sensuality and aphrodisiac qualities dates back to ancient times, although there’s no concrete evidence to back up these claims, making their aphrodisiac status more myth than science.
Honey
Honey’s link to aphrodisiac properties comes from its rich, sweet essence and its historical use in various romantic traditions, including “honeymoons.” However, despite its sweet appeal and its minor boron content, which theoretically could influence hormone levels, there’s no scientific proof that honey directly enhances sexual desire. Can’t hurt to mix it in with a tea of one of the other proven sources though.
Avocados
The avocado’s aphrodisiac reputation dates back to the Aztecs, likely due to its voluptuous shape and nutrient-rich composition. While avocados are packed with healthy fats and vitamins that can support overall health, there’s no direct evidence to suggest they have any special effect on sexual desire or performance.
Oysters
Oysters are perhaps the most famous aphrodisiac, touted for their high zinc content, which is essential for testosterone production and reproductive health. Despite the hype, scientific studies have yet to establish a direct link between oyster consumption and increased sexual desire or performance, leaving it as more of a romantic notion.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates are often celebrated for their antioxidant properties and have been historically linked to fertility and sexual health due to their abundance of seeds. While they’re excellent for your health, the idea that they directly boost libido is more rooted in folklore than in any scientifically verified fact.
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
