Aphrodisiac is a food that arouses sexual instinct or increases sexual pleasure or performance and when you opt for plant-based aphrodisiacs, you choose good health. The term aphrodisiac stems from two Greek roots, aphrodisiakon — meaning “sexual, aphrodisiac” and aphrodisios — “pertaining to Aphrodite.” Aphrodite was infamously the Greek goddess of love. These etymology roots hit upon both aspects of aphrodisiacs. The first aspect is that they are meant to boost libido and inspire sexual pleasure; with the second being that they help reignite passion and ensnare the heart with desire.
Avocados
Avocados often grow in low-hanging pairs and the Aztec word for avocado is ahuacatl, which means “testicle”. In ancient history, they were considered so ‘naughty looking’ that Spanish priests used to forbid their parishioners from eating them.
They contain several vitamins that boost sexual health such as vitamin E which is sometimes referred to as the “sex vitamin”, as well as potassium, which helps with stamina and testosterone production.
Asparagus
Asparagus has been used as a desire stimulant since the 17th century. In fact, bridegrooms in 19th century France were served three courses of asparagus at their prenuptial dinner.
An excellent source of vitamin E just like avocados, this powerful antioxidant helps balance sex hormones which may result in increased sex drive for both men and women. In addition to being a good source of folate, it also contains vitamin B12, an important chemical for a healthy libido in both sexes.
Cacao/Dark Chocolate
They don’t just smell and taste good. Turns out chocolate is also a purported aphrodisiac. That’s precisely why you see so many television commercials of people eating chocolate before, during, and after sex.
Cacao has been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart health, and has more antioxidants than green tea. It also contains tryptophan, which is essential for the brain to release serotonin.
Garlic
You might be sceptical and thinking, “How would garlic improve my sex life? It leaves an abysmal taste in the mouth.” Well, it might taste bad, but it certainly is good for your sexual health.
This member of the onion family contains allicin, an ingredient that increases blood flow and dilates blood vessels. More blood flow means more energy and an increased libido.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seed ingestion can influence prostate health positively, which is very important for male sexual health.
They are rich in zinc which is necessary for testosterone production. Reduced sperm quality and even infertility in men may be associated with low zinc levels. Consuming pumpkin seeds everyday can help improve your overall sperm quality. They’re also high in antioxidants and other nutrients that can contribute to healthy testosterone levels and improve overall health.
Saffron
Saffron is one of the most exotic and expensive spices by weight.
A study noted improvements in erectile dysfunction in men after 4-weeks of saffron consumption as compared to those who took the placebo set.
Another study in women found that those who took saffron experienced higher levels of arousal and increased lubrication as opposed to those in the placebo group.
Figs
Figs were Cleopatra’s favourite fruit and the ancient Greeks associated them with love and fertility.
They are a great source for manganese, magnesium, vitamin E, and zinc, these babies are filled with the kind of good stuff imperative for sexual health. Figs are a great source of flavonoids and antioxidants, and it has been found that figs can increase sexual stamina.
Nuts
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts and cashews help elevate your testosterone levels over time since they are rich in zinc. They’re also good for improving your libido. Pistachios help reduce symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Mangoes
Mangoes are synonymous with male sexual vitality across many Southeast Asian countries such as India. In fact, physicians in these countries often prescribe mangoes for impotence and other sexual issues.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is used in Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-inflammatory and libido-boosting treatment because it contains compounds that the body can use to produce sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.
A study showed significant increase in sexual desire and arousal in women with low sex drive that consumed fenugreek for 8 weeks as opposed to those who were placed in the placebo group.
DISCLAIMER
The priority, in this blog, is to supply the reader with clear and unambiguous information. However, neither The New Me nor Gagan Dhawan makes promises, or guarantees regarding the completeness of the information found here. The content is not a replacement for advice of a licensed professional. The opinions expressed in this blog are solely that of the writer’s.
