Throughout history, every culture has used some type of food or drink to enhance sexual desire, oysters and chocolate topping the list of aphrodisiacs. Although some may say there is no real scientific proof to back the claim that a particular food increases libido, many people continue to believe in the power of aphrodisiacs. A great example of the power of aphrodisiacs is the success of InterCourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook. This award-winning international bestseller focuses on 19 "sensual foods" and includes tons of couple-tested recipes using aphrodisiacs. Read on to learn a little more about Joonbug's picks for the top 5 aphrodisiacs to share with your special someone on Valentine's Day.
Perhaps its the oyster's suggestive shape, perhaps it's the sensual way we eat them, but whatever the reason, oysters are perhaps the most well-known of all aphrodisiacs. There may be a little science to back this one up. Oysters are full of zinc which is a mineral that controls progesterone. Progesterone has a positive effect on the libido, so make sure to load up on these little bivalve molluscs.
Order up some oysters at The John Dory, 1196 Broadway New York, NY (212) 792-9000.
In History of the Conquest of Mexico, historian William Hickling writes, "Montezuma took no other beverage than chocolate. The fact that Montezuma consumed his 'chocolatl' in goblets before entering his harem led to the belief that it was aphrodisiac." Hey, if it was good enough for a Mexican emperor, it is certainly good enough for us. Whether you drink it or eat it in a cake, there is something sexy about chocolate.
Try the Mexican spicy hot chocolate at Max Brenner.
Some historians believe that the fig was the original temptress in the Garden of Eden, not the apple. The ancient Greeks believe in the fig's power to increase stamina. But let's get real here. Eating a sticky, sweet fig is truly an erotic act and that's why it's an aphrodisiac.
Make some creamy stuffed figs and serve them to your lover. Recipe from InterCourses.
Artichokes
Did you know that in 16th century Europe only men were allowed to eat artichokes because of their alleged libido-enhancing quality? The artichoke has long been considered an aphrodisiac, party due to its suggestive shape, but it may have more to do with how we eat them. Think about how you "undress" an artichoke of its leaves to get to its center...the heart.
A baked artichoke and crab dip is the perfect way to start of a romantic dinner. Recipe from InterCourses.
Alcohol
Okay, so alcohol may impair our judgement and we may end up regretting certain "decisions" in the morning, but if taken in moderation, alcohol allows us to let go of our inhibitions. It relaxes us and gives us the confidence to do things we would NEVER do when sober.
Cozy up in a quiet corner at The Dove Parlour and sample the inventive cocktails. 228 Thompson St
New York, NY (212) 254-1435
If you've been enjoying the beautiful photos in this article, they are the work of photographer Ben Fink. All the people photographed for InterCourses were real people, not models.
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