Aphrodisiacs have been used throughout many cultures for centuries. From oysters to chocolate, most cultures have their favorite picks. Certain foods have been known to be powerful aphrodisiacs although no scientific data can back up the claims. Foods are purported to work by lowering inhibitions, stimulating blood flow, and releasing happy hormones. It is important to note that aphrodisiacs are not meant to cure any sexual dysfunctions; they are just supposed to help you to get in the mood. Here are 6 foods to spice up your love life or at least try and see if it works for you!

1. Bananas? Yes- you read right. Bananas have a reputation for enhancing your mood and creating more confidence. So if you are going out on the town and want to deliver a confident and seductive come hither look then snack on a banana before you go. It might help improve your flirting abilities.

2. Ginger the spice of love. Are you past the flirting stage? Then move onto the seducing stage with some ginger by your side. Ginger has been reported to increase blood flow to all the right areas helping you to feel in the mood.

3. Green olives. Surprised? Green olives are believed to make men more virile. I guess that means us women will find them more manly. There is something about a man with a martini- James Bond has it all figured out.

4. Black olives. I guess since green olives work for men then black olives work for women. Black olives are reported to increase a woman’s sex drive. Again, science doesn’t support the claim but black olives are good for us anyway. It doesn’t hurt to try.

5. Tomatoes. That little Italian fruit is known as a sexual stimulant for both men and women. All those times we ate spaghetti…who knew? Round off your meal with some tomatoes and its all amore.

Ok. Want to know what the biggest aphrodisiac is? The human brain- and this one is backed by science. You can still have some fun creating a romantic meal or have just the right appetizer when out with that special someone. All the foods above are very healthy and if they don’t work as an aphrodisiac they will at least promote good health.

Recipe for Love:

Start off with martinis with green olives. Add some tapenade spread on bruschetta for an appetizer. Move onto a tossed green salad with plenty of tomatoes. For the main course serve Ginger Chicken and top it off with banana’s foster for dessert. I wonder if there is such a thing as too many aphrodisiacs in one meal?

© 2006, Meri Raffetto