The jury is always still out on the controversial issue of aphrodisiacs. Do they? Don't they? The thing is if you are searching for answers, you have got it on your mind. And you aren't the first. All the ancient civilizations have had their magic potions. The Chinese favoured rhino horn, the Romans opted for hippo snouts and hyena eyeballs, Indians have their asafetida. Perhaps only the Greek Goddess Aphrodite has the answer. But science has gone some way to show the light at the end of this sensory tunnel.THE LURE
Food rich in L-Arginine, such as granola, oatmeal, peanuts, cashews, walnuts, dairy, green vegetables, root vegetables, garlic, ginseng, soybeans, chickpeas and seeds enhance circulatory function. Which not only makes you more sensitive to stimulus, but also enhances functioning in men.
Chocolate: Pure chocolate contains anandamide, which is a chemical that gives the consumer a natural psychoactive good feeling. Perhaps more importantly it contains phenyl ethylamine, which is the 'love chemical' that releases dopamine in the brain's pleasure centers and this can peak during orgasm. In addition it induces excitable feelings and stimulates both attraction and euphoria.
Oysters hold a high level of zinc, which is known to help produce sperm, increase testosterone and also increase libido in both men and women.
Honey contains several B vitamins, which are required for testosterone. It is also a source of boron, which is a mineral trace that assists the body in using and metabolizing estrogen, which is the female sexual hormone. Studies show that boron can also enhance testosterone levels in the blood, and as we all know testosterone is responsible for sex drive and orgasm in men and also women
Banana: B vitamins, potassium and magnesium. The male libido can get a helpful nudge due to the minerals and enzymes that are found in them.
Basil: The taste is also known to stimulate sexual desire and increase the heart rate.
Apparently for a good reason: asparagus is a great source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, vitamins A and C, and thiamin and folic acid. The latter is said to boost histamine production necessary for the ability to reach orgasm in both sexes.
Caffeine is a well-know stimulant but remember, too much and it becomes a depressant. Serve small amounts of rich dark coffee in special little demitasse cups. Coffee stimulates both the body and the mind so partake of a little in preparation for an "all-nighter".
In the 1930's fennel was found to be a source of natural plant estrogens. Use of fennel as an aphrodisiac dates back to the Egyptian times where it was used as "libido enhancement".
Garlic is chockfull of allicin, an ingredient that will increase blood flow. So, whip up an extra-garlicky dish and keep the Altoids handy.
THE LORE
Anise: A very popular aphrodisiac with many culinary uses. It has been used as an aphrodisiac since the Greeks and the Romans, who believed aniseed, had special powers. Sucking on the seeds is said to increases your desire.
Arugula or "rocket" seed has been documented as an aphrodisiac since the first century A.D. This ingredient was added to grated orchid bulbs and parsnips and also combined with pine nuts and pistachios.
Asafetida: Any Indian dried, powdered herb used as a sexual stimulant in Ayurvedic medicine. The herb has a very strong, garlicky flavor.
The Aztecs called the avocado tree "Ahuacuatl which translated means "testicle tree". The ancients thought the fruit hanging in pairs on the tree resembled the male's testicles. This is a delicious fruit with a sensuous texture. Serve in slices with a small amount of Balsamic vinegar and freshly ground pepper.
Truffles: The Greeks and the Romans considered the rare Truffle to be an aphrodisiac. The musky scent is said to stimulate and sensitize the skin to touch.
Caviar is high in zinc, which stimulates the formation of testosterone, maintaining male functionality
THE LEGACY
For every yin there is a yang. And so just as important as the foods to eat for great sex are the foods that can make you lose you mojo. The ancients suggested you steer clear of dill, lentil, lettuce, watercress, rue, and water lily. Now that you are armed with Austin Powers special weapon, Oh Behave!
