While the jury is still out on the existence of aphrodisiacs, these foods that increase and stimulate sexual desire have long been a cultural fascination. Try out these 10 delectable foods of love and eat your way to a better love life, for science!
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Oysters | There’s no better way to get into the lovey dovey mood than by slurping up raw oysters. A commonly known aphrodisiac, legendary ladies’ man Casanova himself was known to knock back 50 of them, at breakfast! Aside from its slippery, sensual texture, oysters are rich in vitamins and minerals as well as zinc which aids in sperm production. Studies have also found that they contain rare amino acids which up levels of sex hormones. Channel your inner Casanova and slursp up oyster-y goodness at luxurious Japanese spreads. If you don’t like them raw, WATAMI’s Fire Oyster Roll will bring a hot and spicy bonus to your romantic meal!
Tongkat Ali | A plant native to the Southeast Asian region, tongkat Ali (eurycoma longifolia) has long been believed to improve libido. The power lies in its root and bark, which studies suggest increase testosterone levels that can help treat infertility and improve sperm quality. It can be consumed as a tonic or pill supplement, but perhaps the easiest way of getting your fill is through instant coffee or tea, both commercially available. Kacip fatimah, the female counterpart to tongkat ali, is also known to have beneficial effects on women’s sexual health.
Banana | It’s not just the banana’s suggestive shape that makes it a feel-good food. A sign of fertility in certain cultures (for obvious reasons), the sweet fruit is packed with vitamin B and potassium which lets you load up on energy and helps with sex hormone production. It’s also got an enzyme called bromelain which improves overall virility, fueling passion and desire. Have banana fritters a la Malaysia or dip the fruit in chocolate for an indulgent treat.
Ginseng | Derived from the Chinese rénshēn (literally person root), ginseng is a root found most commonly in Chinese herbal shops in Malaysia. Often used as a cure-all tonic for its many health benefits (improved cognitive function and cardiovascular, for example), it contains active ingredients known as ginsenosides which improve physical performance and boosts vitality. Research also suggests it contributes to sexual desire and arousal as well as treating erectile dysfunction. While studies on ginseng as an aphrodisiac is inconclusive, it is, nevertheless, an excellent source of energy.
Ladies finger | Vaguely phallic or finger-like (hence its name), fibrous and sticky ladies finger is chock-full of nourishing nutrients. Rich in vitamins (A, C, K, B6) and folates, you’ll also find zinc, iron, and potassium, all essential components to keep you and your sexy bits healthy. It’s also contains magnesium, a natural relaxant to tame those butterflies in your tummy while you’re on your big date. Steam lightly to keep in all the nutrients and keep it simple with a sprinkle of lemon juice.
Watermelon | Here’s another reason to eat this spongey, juicy fruit. Watermelon is filled with a compound called citrulline that dilates your blood vessels. This makes the blood flow faster which plays a role in stimulation and pleasure. The vasodilation also helps treat mild erectile dysfunction. Citrulline is found in the rind so if you don’t fancy chewing on watermelon skin, supplements are available instead. Otherwise, the delicious fruit is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that keeps your body healthy.
Ginkgo | A living fossil (it has no close living relatives), the ginkgo tree has remained relatively unchanged for millions of years. The seeds feature heavily in Chinese and Japanese cooking like congee and chawanmushi (steamed egg) respectively, but its the leaves of the tree that seem to hold the aphrodisiac quality. Its extract increases blood flow to extremities via dilated vessels, sustaining stimulation for longer. It’s also known to ease stress and anxiety to get lovebirds into a more relaxed mood.
Steak | A good hunk of red meat might be the answer to all your love problems. High in zinc to keep sperm production healthy, it also keeps testosterone levels up! Beef can even inhibit the body’s production of prolactin, a chemical that can cause a decline in libido. Meat is also rich in protein which elevates levels of happy hormones, dopamine and norepinephrine, heightening sensitivty. We know some meaty places where you can get your carnivorous streak going.
Chocolate | It’s not such a clichéd idea to get your other half chocolates for Valentine’s Day. Rich and creamy, we’d go with dark for its sensual texture and bittersweet flavours which trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that factors into feelings of intimacy. It also stimulates production of dopamine and serotonin, both mood-lifting chemicals to easily get you into an amorous mood. This is one time you wouldn’t want to skip dessert!
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