Aphrodisiac Foods

Asparagus

According to European lore, this member of the lily family could set just the right tone for your romantic evening in. In 19th-century France, grooms were given three servings of this natural aphrodisiac before — ahem — moving on to dessert (of the calorie-burning sort). The added ginger will help stimulate the circulatory system.

Almonds

Long regarded as a symbol of fertility, almonds are high in vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber. But it’s the aroma that makes this dish a sensual feast — the smell of almonds is said to arouse desire and passion in women.

Avocado

As shapely as a woman, this creamy fruit was once regarded as so obscene in Old World Spain that Catholic priests forbade their parishioners to eat it.

Bananas

The phallic shape of this potassium-rich fruit makes it an aphrodisiac food acknowledged the world over. According to an Islamic myth, after Adam and Eve succumbed to the apple, they covered their nudity with banana leaves.

Basil

The ancient Greeks praised basil for its power to cure headaches, so no more excuses. It also promotes circulation and heats up the body.

Chocolate Truffles

As if you need an excuse to eat chocolate, or truffles, this is sure to pack a one-two punch of romance into any occasion. Chocolate is a natural source of serotonin, and truffles are downright sexy.

Arugula

Frequently used in salads and pastas, this spicy, leafy green has been considered an aphrodisiac since the first century A.D.

Garlic

Garlic is said to cure the common cold, heart ailments, and bland meals. While some consider this pungent seasoning more of a romance killer, it’s actually an aphrodisiac that can add flavor to your love life.

Eggs

According to legend, eating raw chicken eggs before sex arouses your libido. Ick. Fingers crossed, cooked eggs provide a similar intoxication. High in vitamins B5 and B6, eggs balance hormone levels and fight stress.

Figs

Figs are said to have been Cleopatra’s favorite fruit. Just the look of a cut fig is enticing!

Oysters

Oysters are brimming with zinc, which raises sperm and testosterone production, and his libido. They are also high in omega-3, which wards off depression and promotes general well-being. Maybe the saying should be “happy as an oyster!”

Beer

Believe it or not, some consider stout beer an aphrodisiac. A man is assuredly responsible for this rumor, but why not give him the benefit of the doubt? Next time you make him some chili, just add Guinness.

Chile Peppers

To spice things up, pick fiery peppers. They’re chock full of capsaicin, a body-temperature and heart-rate booster that’ll get you hot and bothered in a flash.

Honey

Long recognized as a passion kick-starter, this sweetener is packed with fast-acting simple sugars — great for some instant pep anytime, anywhere.

Red Wine

Get in the habit of quaffing vino regularly, and sparks could fly: According to Italian scientists, a daily glass of red can send your lust into overdrive.

Pomegranate Juice

Hello, liquid Viagra! Researchers have found that drinking this can lift testosterone levels up to 30% — which makes men and women feel friskier.