In ancient times certain food items were thought to have the power of improving the sexual life of an individual, increase the sexual drive and even cure problems of fertility and sexual dysfunction. These food items were identified as aphrodisiac food, i.e. foods that have the power to boost the libido and ensure that one had a good time. The word Aphrodisiac which comes from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, means any form of stimulation that can lead to sexual arousal. .
Though it may surprise many to hear that food can act as aphrodisiacs, this extract from the 'Encyclopedia Britannica' should corroborate it, "...the psycho physiological reaction that a well-prepared meal can have upon the human organism. The combination of various sensuous reactions - the visual satisfaction of the sight of appetizing food, the olfactory stimulation of their pleasing smells and the tactile gratification afforded the oral mechanism by rich, savory dishes - tend to bring on a state of general euphoria conducive to sexual expression."
Food items that by nature represented seed or semen such as bulbs and eggs were considered to have inherent sexual powers. Some other kind of food items were considered stimulating because of their physical resemblance to the genitalia.
This ancient belief still carries much weight in these modern times, where the power of food in sex has not been underestimated. However, when one thinks of food and sex one naturally associates it with food items that carry a feeling of excitement, that are exotic and refreshing. Juicy red strawberries, freshly whipped cream, thick dark chocolate or oysters and caviar are the images that immediately jump into the mind.
But not once would one imagine that the most common, boring everyday food items would have any power to excite us leave alone create any sexual thrill. But surprises of all surprises you don't have to go hunting for some exotic and expensive fruits or spices to get your aphrodisiacs. Just check your vegetable basket at home and you'll find all your ingredients for erotic stimulation.
2. Tomatoes: "Studies show that the tomato component lycopene, a member of the vitamin A family, helps maintain prostate health," says Shari Lieberman, Ph.D., a nutrition scientist and exercise physiologist. Lycopene is best absorbed when tomatoes are cooked with a little oil, as in pasta sauce.
3. Nuts: They're high in the amino acid arginine, which is crucial to the synthesis of nitric oxide, a compound in the body involved in generating erections. What's more, "nut oils are nowhere near as harmful as saturated fat or trans fats," Lieberman says. "In fact, recent studies show that nuts help reduce cholesterol."
4. Pumpkin Seeds: "In addition to being a rich source of zinc, pumpkin seeds are packed with nutrients, including the antioxidants selenium and vitamin E, which are good for the arteries," Bonci says.
5. Olive Oil: Saturated fat and trans fats narrow the arteries, but monounsaturated fat, found in olive oil, helps keep them functioning well.
6. Wheat Germ: It's difficult to get enough vitamin E from diet alone, but wheat germ is a particularly good source. "It helps keep the arteries healthy," Lieberman says.
7. Oysters: This shellfish has a centuries-old folk reputation as a "virility food." Scientists scoffed - until they discovered that oysters are also very rich in zinc, which is essential for men's reproductive and sexual function. But if you eat them raw, be sure they're fresh and from uncontaminated waters, or your evening of get-down could turn nasty.
Edited By Cen Fox Post Team
