Aphrodisiacs

An aphrodisiac is something that arouses you or intensifies sexual desires. Aphrodisiacs are named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. Throughout history, the title of aphrodisiac has been bestowed upon several foods that were thought to improve sexual function or fertility. Some foods, like bananas and asparagus were thought to be aphrodisiacs due to their manly shapes, while other foods such as honey were prescribed to newlyweds on their honeymoon.

Cooking with Aphrodisiacs

Healthy cooking, good nutrition and a little fun can all go together on Valentine's Day, birthdays, or just any special night. Did you know that women used to use the sexual charms of basil on their bodies to keep their husbands from roving too far from home?

Aphrodisiacs or Good Health?

Many of the foods and herbs that have been called aphrodisiacs are very healthy fruits, vegetables and nuts. Perhaps the vitamins, minerals, enzymes and anti-oxidants contained in these aphrodisiacs are the real key to a healthy love life. Here are just a few aphrodisiac foods:

Bananas are a great source of potassium as well as other minerals and vitamins. Bananas also contain an enzyme called bromelain that enhances male sexual health.

Asparagus contains folic acid, a B vitamin which is important for a healthy heart and for having healthy babies.

Honey is an easy sugar to digest and contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals that other sugars do not.

Avocados contain vitamins, minerals, fibre and phytochemicals.

Chocolate is more something in a candy bar. Dark chocolate contains anti-oxidants to keep us healthy and chocolate also contains phenylethylamine, like the neurotransmitter that is stimulated in our human bodies when we fall in love. Chocolate may actually act as an anti-depressant.

Figs contain more minerals than most other fruits plus a good dose of fiber.

Almonds are a source of healthy fats and vitamin E. Vitamin E is important for male sexual health.

Pine nuts, like almonds are a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E.

Black beans contain protein, fibre and folic acid. Black beans also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that relaxes us.

Oysters contain zinc, which is important for sexual health.

Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants that may reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Perhaps the reason that aphrodisiacs charm us is that they are in reality good foods that improve our health. Healthy minds plus healthy bodies equal better sex. Another reason may be due to the pleasure of cooking delicious foods for someone we love, or being served these wonderful dishes