Named after the god of love, Aphrodite, an aphrodisiac is a food or drug that arouses erotic instinct, induces desire, or increases pleasure or performance. With things looking so different this year, you may as well try to make the best of your holiday in any way you can. We have gathered a list of aphrodisiacs that are easy to incorporate into your feast to help you turn up the heat.
Simple additions
If you just want to make some minor changes without altering your traditional meal swapping out your oils for all olive oil is a great place to start. Olive oil is packed with antioxidants and has been used for centuries for health reasons. It’s a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which promote a healthy heart, smooth blood flow and regulated hormone levels. Green olives are believed to make men more virile, while black olives are known for increasing a woman’s libido. All of these factors make olive oil a delicious swap instead of vegetable oil!
Another great small addition is spice! Spicy chili peppers contain the chemical capsaicin. The hotter the pepper, the more capsaicin it contains. Capsaicin is known to boost testosterone levels and increase libido. Chili peppers also have the ability to release endorphins, natural painkillers and your bodies response to the capsaicin. When eating chili peppers, your heart rate rises and your body temperature elevates, having a thermogenic effect on the body. All of these can enhance the erotic experience!
Appetizer
Artichokes have been known for their ability to enhance erotic energy for so long that during the 16th century, women were banned from eating them. Since Spinach can be consumed as an alternative to Viagra some simple spinach artichoke dip is a great way to start off your sexy supper.
Side dishes
Asparagus are great source of vitamin E, which stimulates the production of reproductive hormones in men and women. It also contains a high count of B vitamin which is known to increase histamine, an important chemical for a healthy libido in both sexes. As an added bonus, it includes folate which is important for male and female reproductive health. It’s also a simple side to add, just roast it in some olive oil and sprinkle it with sea salt.
Sweet Potatoes are a traditional starchy veggie most people already include in their thanksgiving menus. They are packed with fertility boosting vitamin A, found in the beta carotene which gives them their orange color. They are also rich in vitamin C which boosts energy and fights aging, as well as potassium and iron which promote healthy blood pressure. When you pair its benefits with its phallic shape and soft (cooked) texture, you get an aphrodisiac that has multiple benefits. Wrap some up in aluminum foil and stick them to the sides of your oven to bake if you don’t want the hassle of making a casserole.
Dessert
Figs have a romantic scent and texture, but those aren’t the only things that make figs a perfect treat for lovers. They are rich in amino acids, which are known to increase stamina, as well as iron and potassium. Their reputation a romance food permeates through history. It’s even said that figs may have been the fruit that caused original sin in the Garden of Eden, rather than apples! You can leave them as they are or make them into a figgy pudding for an extra festive touch.
Dark Chocolate increases your sensuality and also enhances your feelings, mood and reduces stress. Strawberries also act similarly to Viagra, they are rich in Vitamin C and can improve sperm quality. Banana also has a great amount of potassium that increases blood flow. Vitamin B in this fruit increases your energy and you can perform for a longer time in bed. It also increases testosterone. So, melt down some dark chocolate and dip some strawberries and bananas in it for a sweet treat after dinner.
