Are Aphrodisiacs Real?
Brief History
Mankind has touted aphrodisiacs in food, particularly fruit, herbs and spices, since ancient times. The Egyptian Pharaohs believed in the sex enhancing powers of radish. Ancient Greeks indulged in wild orgies at the time of harvesting figs. Aztecs even worshiped the avocado fruit and tree. Surprisingly, no in-depth reliable scientific research has been conducted in our times on the subject. No reports have proved or invalidated the libido enhancing qualities of certain foods. Nevertheless, they are still considered and consumed as aphrodisiacs. How much is myth, tradition and lore and how much effect do certain foods really have?
Testosterones
Testosterone is a steroid hormone and responsible for all the fun. It’s derived from cholesterol and produced in the testes of men and the ovaries of women, and, to a smaller amount, in the placenta. Testosterone is in both men and women essential for health and well being as well as for sexual functioning. It stimulates libido, but also provides energy, increases the production of red blood cells and protects against osteoporosis. The effects of testosterone can be divided into virilization (which is self-explanatory) and anabolic. Anabolic effects include growth of muscle mass, bone strength, structure and linear growth of the spine.
As can be seen, testosterone is an extremely important hormone and, contrary to popular belief, vital for men and women. Since ancient times, certain foods have been deemed to increase the production of testosterone in its libido producing quality.
Aphrodisiac Foods
Which foods are considered as aphrodisiacs depends very much on culture and country. There are some exotic potions like those concocted from Spanish Fly and powders containing ground rhino horn. A crystalline derived from the yohimbe tree which grows in Central Africa is considered a potent aphrodisiac, but there is no scientific proof so far.
Less exotic fish, fruits and spices which are easily available everywhere, are supposed to help along a happier sex life. Even if that is pure imagination and wishful thinking, the foods in question are healthy per se and worth to be included in a balanced diet.
Here are a few:
In the belief of the ancient Greeks and other cultures, it was not only the consumption of certain food but also the enticing smell or suggestive shape of the fruit or vegetable which caused the desired effect.
As already mentioned, the avocado, because of it’s shape, was worshiped by the Aztecs. The bananas, as a source of potassium and vitamin B combined with the enzyme bromelain which enhances male performance, seems to live up to its reputation. Apart from that, it’s the shape which ignites the imagination, which is also true for asparagus, another “love vegetable.”
Aromas and smells which enhance sexual appetite are contributed to almonds, vanilla and nutmeg. Honey, chocolate and mustard all have a long tradition as aphrodisiacs.
Most popular and probably best known are oysters and caviar. Oysters, although high in cholesterol, are a great source of protein and other nutrients and comparatively rich in zinc. Caviar is equally rich in zinc, which is necessary for the formation of testosterone.
More exotic is the puffer fish, which is a delicacy as well as a popular -and very expensive- aphrodisiac in Japan. However, great mastery in the art of cutting it up is required. If the poisonous gland of the fish isn’t removed properly, the ingestion is deadly.
Conclusion
Zinc is a mineral which plays a major role in sexual development and general growth. It can therefore be said, that any food containing zinc in more than negligible quantities might possibly qualify as aphrodisiac. Apart from oysters and caviar, zinc is found in shellfish, wheat germ, pine, pecan and cashew nuts as well as liver and Parmesan cheese. Including these foods in a healthy and balanced diet is a good idea in any event. If in addition you want to believe in their aphrodisiac qualities there is no harm. Of course, caviar and oysters are a lot more glamorous than wheat germs and liver, which might have played a role in their reputation.