When it comes to enhancing the quality of your
love life, there are a number of things that you can do to shake up your usual nocturnal habits. For the kinky couples, there's toys and BDSM gear, for the old-school folks, there's the Kama Sutra, and, for the desperate individuals, there's pills, supplements, and a whole lot of dubious claims from health professionals.
However, if you're simply looking for a little natural pick-me-up that might help put the spice back into your routine, here's 10 foods that could help you out...
1. Avocado
These days, avocados are mainly consumed by millennials who spread them on toast to go with their morning chai latte, but, back in Aztec times, the fruits were considered the ultimate boost for virility. In fact, the original Aztec word for avocado translates as "testicle" - but it's not difficult to see why.
2. Carrots
Another phallic shaped food that also helps the organ it resembles: the carrot. As well as looking like a rather rude body bit, these veggies also contain important vitamins which encourage hormone production - which is obviously essential for drive and performance.
3. Chocolate
You've probably heard about the aphrodisiac qualities of chocolate before - and it's no surprise. The sweet treat has been known to be a mood booster for centuries, as it stimulates the same hormone your body releases during sex. Oh, and it tastes great.
4. Watermelon
Though it might not be the most flavourful fruit, watermelon actually has a number of health benefits. As well as providing a ton of vitamins, chemicals in the melon help to open up blood vessels, which then speeds up circulation and can promote arousal.
5. Red wine
Like watermelon, red wine increases blood flow, and the
alcohol also works as a relaxant. People have lower inhibitions after a drink or two, and feel more turned on than they might do without a little bit of liquid courage. Obviously it has to be consumed in moderation, though.
6. Basil
A tasty edition to any type of tomato-based dish, basil is most common herbs available. However, as well as adding a little more flavor to your food, basil can also increase your heart rate and improve your blood flow - which we know by now is a recipe for successful sexy times.
7. Cardamom
This ingredient will very literally put some spice in your life, and you can use it all sorts of things from curries and soups to teas and other hot drinks. It's an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, and - you've guessed it - increases blood flow.
8. Cinnamon
Here's another spice that made the list, and for a very good reason. As well as adding a bit of gentle heat to curries, drinks, or sweet foods such as gingerbread and apple pies, cinnamon also helps to warm up the body and spark your sex drive.
9. Garlic
While it might not be the most pleasant smelling substance in the world, garlic is actually an excellent aphrodisiac. The chemical allicin promotes blood flow and increases energy levels. However, if you're going to chow down on a few bulbs before you get down to business, make sure you've got some gum on hand.
10. Celery
This is one of those love it or hate it sort of foods, with a significant number of people claiming to hate the crunchy vegetable. However, this might change your mind if you fall into the 'dislike' category: celery makes you more attractive to others. It contains two chemicals — androsterone and adrostenol — which act as a sexual attractant when consumed.
So, if you were after something to give your
relationship a bit of a boost, or are perhaps curious to see for yourself what these miracle foods can actually do, why not whip up a medley of aphrodisiac foods? With a glass of wine on the side, of course.
