Aphrodisiac Foods: Eat Your Way to Better Sex

There are many ways to get in the mood for sex. Lighting some candles, turning on some music, or just little touches here and there can inspire and increase desire. Do you know what else can heighten your libido? Food! We’ve heard of food starting the sex drive, that’s why people will order or prepare things like Oysters Rockefeller and Chocolate Souffle for a date. These types of dishes star ingredients that are sometimes classified as aphrodisiac foods.

What are Aphrodisiacs?

Aphrodisiacs are foods that are said to stimulate the love senses – sight, smell, taste, and touch. Food science researchers have found that certain foods contain ‘feel good’ compounds that enhance bodily sensations, or antioxidants that improve blood flow. Some tasty treats have earned the title of aphrodisiac foods simply because of their resemblance to intimate body parts.

While official studies say that the effects on sexual desires by ingesting aphrodisiac foods are more placebo effect than anything else, the belief in them has spanned generations and cultures. Something having that long history can’t be wrong… can it? Regardless, there’s no harm in incorporating the sexy foods into your date… or the activities after.

Aphrodisiac Foods & Ways to Serve Them on a Date

The most subtle way to incorporate aphrodisiac foods into your date is at the meal. Whether you end up at a fine dining restaurant or cooking your own dishes at home, there is a wealth of fare to choose from. While there is a chance your date might catch on to your steamy agenda, it could make for a good laugh if it doesn’t work.

1Artichokes

According to Greek mythology, the artichoke was actually a beautiful young woman who Zeus turned into the difficult plant after she rejected him. At one point in history – the 16th century, to be exact – the artichoke’s ability to enhance erotic energy was a cause to ban women from ingesting the tasty aphrodisiac. 

The only edible part of the sizable ingredient is its heart, which can make dealing and preparing with it whole can be a bit of a struggle. Good news though, you can buy artichoke hearts canned or bottled! While you can add them to dips or eat them straight out of the jar, baking them off with cheese and breadcrumbs is a great way to serve them.

2Asparagus

Whether or not the shape of asparagus is suggestive is up for debate. What is definite about asparagus is that it’s a great source of Vitamin E which is incredible for your skin and encourages the production of reproductive hormones. An important component for a healthy sex drive is histamine which is increased by Vitamin B, another nutrient abundant in these stalks. You can prepare them in soups, or chopped up in salads, but why waste the beauty of this vegetable with complicated preparations when you could serve it up simply roasted.

3Figs

The rumor is that the fig might have been the forbidden fruit that caused the fall of Eden. Their romantic scent and texture inspire sexual thoughts, but that isn’t the only thing that makes the fig an aphrodisiac food. Amino acids, iron, and potassium are known to increase stamina which could lead to longer sessions in the bedroom. Figs are delectable treats on their own, but having them baked in cakes, roasted, added to sauces are incredible options, too. If you want something lighter, having them sliced and added to your salads is a great way to get your date started.

4Raw Oysters

The most famous lover in all the world, Giacomo Casanova, was said to enjoy raw oysters to get him (and keep him) in the mood for some lovin’. Raw oysters have a bit of science to back up their claim of being an aphrodisiac food. The D-Aspartic Acid in this deep-sea delicacy was shown to increase testosterone production, and the zinc, as mentioned earlier, is beneficial to the male reproductive system. People prefer to have their raw oysters in a variety of ways, with different sauces and herbs. While it’s safest to ingest raw oysters prepared by knowledgeable professionals, if you know your way around the shellfish and have a reputable seller on speed dial, you could prepare them at home, too.

5Spicy Chili Peppers

It shouldn’t surprise you to know that the spice you need in your sex life can be inspired by a red hot chili pepper. The capsaicin in chili peppers that cause their heat can boost testosterone and increase libido. Added to that, because the heat causes a certain degree of pain, eating something spicy increases the production of endorphins aka the happy hormone. An elevated heart rate and body temperature occur, and this phenomenon can make sexy time more exciting. While it probably isn’t the best date idea to be eating chili peppers raw nor is taking shots of hot sauce, there are infinite ways to incorporate spicy chili into your meals. Creating sauces that you can smear onto your main course is ideal because you and your date can each regulate the amount of spice you’re comfortable with adding. Chimichurri sauce is great on seafood, beef, pork, chicken, and even eggs! You can prepare it right before the date or create a large amount and stock it in your refrigerator to use whenever the mood strikes.

6Watermelon

This juicy fruit has been discovered to contain enzymes that relax the blood vessels in the groin and might increase libido. While most of the necessary enzymes for the aphrodisiac phenomenon are found in the rind, it doesn’t take away from the tastiness of the summertime fruit. There are so many ways to enjoy the tasty watermelon. You can slice it up and serve on a platter, combine it with some feta and olive oil for some appetizers. You could grill it and serve it with vegetables. Better yet, you could serve it with cocktails. Mull it with gin, vodka, or the alcohol of your choice. A full-proof watermelon cocktail? A refreshing watermelon mint mojito!

7Celery

We defer to Greek stories on this one. In Homer’s Odyssey, Calypso’s home is surrounded by wild celery, and that is where she keeps Odysseus for an affair that lasts five years. And again, Casanova’s legendary stamina is attributed to this crunchy green. Celery has received attention as a superfood thanks to all the vitamins and minerals that are extremely beneficial to not only sexual but overall health! It’s the perfect thing to pack for outdoor dates, especially picnics because they’re easy finger food and usually preferred fresh rather than cooked. Appeal to the inner child in them by serving variations of ants on a log, and that’ll be sure to inspire more playful conversations that could translate to more fun in the bedroom.

8Bananas

Bananas can be pretty uncomfortable to eat in public, and if you don’t understand why, you might need to think a bit more creatively. And while most aphrodisiac foods are best consumed raw, bananas are one of which the most potent form is baked – into banana bread! It might be worth becoming the greatest banana bread baker if it’ll arouse your female partner’s arousal by 12 percent.

9Mangoes

This sticky, sweet fruit has been crowned the king of fruits, and it is well-deserved. Mangoes are rich in vitamins and minerals that help improve skin, brain, and hair health, and improve digestion and immunity. It has also been dubbed a love fruit because of its aphrodisiac properties. Though eating it raw can be sensual enough as you lick the juice running down your fingers, there are other ways to serve mangoes that are more impressive than simply cutting it open for your date. For instance, serving it as part of your main meal can evoke tropical vacations and more exotic locations. It might awaken your date’s free spirit in the bedroom, so add a mango dish to your cooking repertoire! If nothing else, knowing that you’re capable in the kitchen can be pretty sexy.

10Eggs

Eggs have been a symbol of fertility and birth, but that doesn’t explain why they’re on the list of aphrodisiac foods. What does explain it is its richness in Vitamins B6 and B5 that help balance hormones and combat stress. Both of these are crucial to a healthy sex drive. That is to say, you can’t get hard or wet if you’re stressed about stuff going on in life. Eating raw chicken eggs is pretty common for bodybuilders and gym rats because they’re great sources of clean protein, but it is also said to increase your sexual stamina if ingested right before sex. We’re not sure that’s the best way to have eggs on a date though. This is, however, perfect for early bird daters. Or the morning after a very successful date. Who doesn’t love eggs for breakfast? Eggs are a great way to fuel up before a morning romp or refuel from the night before.

Aphrodisiac Foods & Ways to Use Them in the Bedroom

Sexy foods outside of the bedroom can be used for more fun sex inside the bedroom. Incorporating aphrodisiac foods into your play kits can be a more than appetizing idea for you and your partner. It can rejuvenate your playfulness and sense of wonder about sex. It can introduce new, kinkier sensations to your mating.

We’ve got a few basics that belong in your bedroom arsenal… but maybe keep them in the fridge until you need them.

1Chocolate

Chocolate is widely regarded as one of the world’s most romantic foods. It’s gifted during dates, anniversaries, and other special occasions. Tryptophan, a building block of serotonin – the feel-good chemical, along with a stimulant, phenylethylamine can be found in cocoa. Both of these chemicals are released when you’re in love so it’s no surprise that chocolates can fuel desire. Chocolate bars and truffles are all delicious, but have you tried chocolate syrup on your partner’s body? Divine.

2Honey

Sweet taste, sticky and silky texture, it’s no wonder honey is a hit in the love market – not to mention that it’s been considered an aphrodisiac food since ancient times. The consumption of mead (an alcoholic beverage created by the fermentation of water and honey) after a couple is wed is how the term honeymoon was coined. Honey not only regulates estrogen and testosterone levels, but it also regulates nitric oxide which is released in the body when a person is aroused. Drizzle it on their erogenous zones and lick it off or spread a little bit on your own favorite points of stimulation for them to lick off.

3Vanilla

Its scent and taste are what make vanilla so appealing. In fact, historical figures like Queen Elizabeth and Madame du Barry used the scent in the bedroom.  Vanilla is such a familiar scent and can evoke feelings of safety and intimacy that can mean great things for the bedroom. Sure, you probably won’t go scattering vanilla pods on your sheets, but vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can get pretty hot in the bedroom.

4Cinnamon

Cinnamon is such a warm spice. It’s so cozy and familiar. The scent certainly makes you feel like it’s enveloping you in the best hug but there’s a spiciness that comes with cinnamon that makes you wonder how spicy it can get. If your partner is sweet and spicy, then ramp it up by covering them in cinnamon sugar. However, this might be best only for a night where exclusively tasting each other is on the agenda because penetrative sex with sugar crystals will not be a fun time.

5Strawberries

Strawberries are kind of shaped like hearts and that’s most likely why they’re such a hit for those looking to romance their partner. And in this case, the aphrodisiac properties might not be from the fruit itself but from the effort put in to prepare it for the bedroom. Dipped strawberries are pretty popular for bedroom play, and the fact that you went through the trouble to create a fun and memorable sexual experience adds to the attraction and arousal they’ll feel. So what are you waiting for? Go melt those chocolates and dip the strawberries in time for bow chika wow wow.

6Pomegranates

Pomegranates are the culinary symbol of the goddess of love, Aphrodite. Additionally, the abundance of little seeds in pomegranates is associated with fertility and abundance. It has also been found that the ruby red juice can help lower cortisol levels, thus alleviating stress, which in turn allows you to focus on the lovemaking at hand. Pour pomegranate syrup into your partner’s crevices and take sips.

7Truffles

If there’s one thing everybody knows about truffles, it’s that they’re very aromatic. The rarity and rich flavor add to the romantic aspect of truffles, so why not use them in the bedroom? Truffle oil is an expense you might not mind if it makes your sex life more luxurious. Use it to massage your partner, or even just dot it in trails that your tongues can follow to make them even more appetizing.

8Ginger

Ginger roots are frequently used in medicinal practices, but they’re pretty potent aphrodisiacs. In fact, in India, it’s used as a treatment for impotence. Ginger wakes up the body and increases the heart rate, as well as acts as a natural stimulant while still managing to promote relaxation. Prepare some sweet ginger syrup to play with while you do the deed, and mix some in hot water after to help revitalize you.

9Cherries

The beautiful red color and delicate skin has this seductive innocence that makes it so irresistible. But the appearance of cherries are not the only reason they’re considered aphrodisiacs, they also boost pheromone production and promote healthy blood flow, both of which are definite bonus points for your sexy time activities. They’re only available one season a year, so their elusiveness make them even more appealing. Share a cherry with your partner, or feed them the luscious fruit from the stem to get them hot and bothered. Cherries can help make the foreplay so much hotter, but how you tease them is up to you.

10Almonds

Fatty acids, Vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber which are all necessary in testosterone production can be found in almonds. Their scent is also said to arouse people of all sexes. Almond nuts aren’t the only way to enjoy this nut. Almond jelly and syrups can inspire some interesting sexual activities if you think outside the box. So what are you waiting for? Go get that thinking cap on and prepare for mind-bending mating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aphrodisiacs, and the consumption of them, can get a bit confusing and overwhelming. There’s so much information and so many different types of aphrodisiac foods that it’s difficult to figure out where to start.

1What is the most powerful aphrodisiac foods?

The most powerful aphrodisiac food is the food you and your partner enjoy! It doesn’t matter the supposed aphrodisiac properties and strength of any food if you’re having a hard time getting it down. Aside from the taste, the effort and thought that goes into the preparation of the food can inspire feelings of warmth and affection from your partner, it might even turn them on. Take that into account when making getting your sexy meal ready.

2Are foods the only kinds of aphrodisiacs?

No. Scents and sounds can be aphrodisiacs, as well. Lavender, jasmine, or even vanilla is a powerful scent aphrodisiac. The sounds of moans or even the voice of specific people are considered aphrodisiacs. Aphrodisiacs are really anything that gets you going, so really, to each their own. The smell of donuts is considered an aphrodisiac scent. In short, figure out what gets you both going and lean into that.

3Is viagra an aphrodisiac?

Nope, Viagra isn’t an aphrodisiac. To clarify, while the little blue pill can help you get an erection, it doesn’t actually get you turned on. Even though the stiffy you get is prolonged by the medication, it doesn’t increase your libido. That’s why if you or your partner had no sexual appetite before, Viagra isn’t really going to help.

4What are the other benefits of aphrodisiac foods?

Aphrodisiac foods are actually really great ingredients to incorporate into your diet. They’re good for blood circulation and rich in vitamins in minerals. Keeping a steady stream of aphrodisiac foods in your daily meal can help you keep a very balanced diet.

5Are there bad side effects to consuming too much aphrodisiac foods?

Anything you consume in extremes can do harm, but it has nothing to do with the food being an aphrodisiac. In the same way that drinking too much water can drown you or too much sushi can cause your iron levels to soar, overconsumption of specific aphrodisiac foods can cause their own problems. That said, consuming any aphrodisiac ingredient in moderation is, as we have mentioned earlier, very good for your general health. Other factors come into play, though, like the way you prepare said ingredients and their quality.

Takeaway

Aphrodisiacs are very much like everything in life – each person has their own preferences. Yes, they can help you and your partner enjoy your sex life more, having a partner you enjoy having sex wife is the most important thing here. Additionally, aphrodisiac foods work not just because of their properties, but also because of the appreciation your partner has for the effort and thoughtfulness you put into preparing. At the end of the day, making your partner feel appreciated and cared for is the most powerful aphrodisiac.