If you ask the FDA, there are no aphrodisiacs. But, why would we turn to the Federal government for help with our love lives? If we believed them, this would be an incredibly short article.

To find the answers we seek, it is important to look to our ancestors. They didn’t need randomized controlled trials to tell them what turned them on. They found what worked and used it. They also knew that what one thinks MIGHT be a turn-on, probably would do just that. There are a wide variety of foods that have been documented as aphrodisiacs throughout history. Let’s take an alphabetical approach. We’ll start with the “A” foods!

Sucking on Aniseed was found to be a powerful aphrodisiac by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Most people these days use it to flavor alcoholic drinks. Almonds have been a symbol of fertility, and their scent is supposedly quite effective at inducing passion in women. You can find it in scented oils. Since the first century, arugula, which we use in salad has been considered a turn on. It should be a staple in every Valentine’s Day meal. In ancient times, the avocado, which looks like hanging testicles on the vine, has been found to be a powerful aphrodisiac as well. You can add it to your salad!

The shape of the banana is what attracted our ancestors, but the nutrients may have helped it to qualify as an aphrodisiac. Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamin B, which is important for making sex hormones. Of course chocolate is a definite aphrodisiac just ask any woman. Scientists suspect that chocolate contains chemicals that affect the neurotransmitters of the brain, which might explain its power over those of the female persuasion. If you’re a guy and you want to increase the chance that your significant other will jump your bones, give her some rich, dark chocolate. It is the type of chocolate that is highest in anti-oxidants.

The Egyptians used fennel as a libido booster. It is also a rich source of plant estrogens. Figs look like the female sex organ. Folklore has it that a man eating a fig in front of his significant other is a huge turn on. Garlic is a hot spice. It can boost the libido but really needs to be shared for obvious reasons. Those who wanted to sweeten their relationships in olden times used to share a drink of fermented honey.

What about oysters? The Romans described women gone wild after eating oysters and drinking wine. Oysters look like female genitalia and also are high in protein. If oysters aren’t your cup of tea, the taste and smell of vanilla are reputed to induce passion and desire. Finally, wine can be a powerful aphrodisiac in moderation. If you drink too much, the party’s over.

The bottom line is that there are many foods that can ignite passion and excitement. You just have to believe and it will be so!