A Grown-Up Guide to Aphrodisiacs
The mysterious aphrodisiac, known by many, understood by few. There is a sort of magical mystery to the aphrodisiac that most people don’t understand, myself included. Certain foods, regardless of being sweet, salty, briny, or earthy, are said to elicit a spark of desire. Why asparagus pushes us to the bedroom, I am at a loss, but if it gets my date to willingly order more oysters at the wine bar, I’m there. So, curious to see what all the fuss was about, I decided to dig a little deeper into the foods that claim to set the mood.
What are aphrodisiacs?
Aphrodisiacs, named after the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, are foods that are rumoured to increase libido, sexual desire, performance or pleasure. Whether much of this result is scientific, working to aid blood flow or energy, or whether it is a placebo? There isnt’ heaps of evidence, but it is Valentine’s Day, and if you happen to be cooking alongside your fling, flame, or fiancé, you might as well know a bit about what to put on the menu.
Aphrodisiacs contain “feel-good” compounds, enhancing bodily sensations and, in some, improving blood flow. Both result in greater relaxation and may aid feelings of intimacy. While I’m sure some of this might be scientific, I am a big believer in the placebo effect. Given the mythology surrounding aphrodisiacs, just the thought that you might get laid after a chocolate pudding is probably enough to shift the mood.
Given the mythology surrounding aphrodisiacs, just the thought that you might get laid after a chocolate pudding is probably enough to shift the mood.
The menu
Oysters
Oysters have long been linked to sex and love. They’re high in zinc content, which is a mineral that’s linked to increasing testosterone, plus eating them is a seductive act in itself. Unfortunately, there is little to no evidence of oysters actually affecting sex drive, but our long-standing belief that they might is obviously enough to influence us, and it’s a great excuse to get your partner to splurge on a dozen. Cheers!
It’s a great excuse to get your partner to splurge on a dozen.
Read our full guide on truffle menus in London
Chocolate
Why do we tend to give chocolates as a gift on the day of love? Is it because it’s rich? Indulgent? A cheat day? Or is it because of our optimistic belief that a bite might take things to the next level? Chocolate contains theobromine, which is a stimulant believed to help get us into a romantic mood. It also contains phenthylamine, aka the “love chemical”, which improves mood by way of releasing endorphins and dopamine. In short, it gets us excited in general; there just may happen to be a special someone in the line of fire.
Read our full guide on London’s best oyster bars
Chillies
Like nearly everything on this list, there is no real proof that chillies increase libido. That said, the spicier the food, the more endorphins you’ll release. The more endorphins, the more blood pumping. They just make you a bit hot and bothered. Spicy.
The more endorphins, the more blood pumping.
Honey
Fun fact: the term “honeymoon” is said to have been coined from the historic tradition of newlyweds consuming honey (or mead) during the first full moon cycle of their marriage to encourage fertility and a successful romantic union. Of course, there is little definitive evidence here, but many studies show significant improvements in libido in rats! Win!
Asparagus
Historically, asparagus has had a reputation for fertility. It has high levels of vitamin E, increasing blood flow and aiding in hormone production. Rumour has it that French grooms in the 19th century would eat it three times a day ahead of their weddings. Its suggestive shape, coincidence or not, is an added gag.
Rumour has it that French grooms in the 19th century would eat it three times a day ahead of their weddings.
Read our favourite asparagus recipes
Truffles
Buckle up, this one’s good. Truffles are considered an aphrodisiac primarily due to their aroma, which allegedly contains compounds, specifically the steroid alpha-androstenol, that mimic mammalian sex pheromones. There’s a scent that is found in male underarm sweat and the saliva of boars (yup) that triggers arousal and boosts attraction. In layman’s terms, truffles reek of sex.
Read our full guide on truffle menus in London
Listen, and I can’t stress this enough, the evidence is minimal, but if you believe in it, it’ll probably do you wonders. Placebo effect is just as good as science every now and then, and if it takes a bit of chilli to spice up your sex life, have at it. Happy V Day.
