Eating sexy

By Annette Tan

Aphrodisiac foods have been around for as long as the human race has populated the Earth. Whether they really work is still debatable - the fun is in finding out.

Sex is as old as love itself. It is, after all, a biological imperative of the species. And so, humans, in our never ending quest for betterment, have always searched for ways to heighten the sexual experience - and aphrodisiacs have been used for centuries just for that.

Food-wise, aphrodisiacs have included everything from frogs to berries. Some are said to induce sexual arousal, while others are said to improve fertility. Some aphrodisiac foods are derived from mythology - the love goddess Aphrodite was said to consider sparrows sacred because of their "amorous nature"

Other aphrodisiacs where chosen in ancient times for their representation of "seed" or semen - think eggs and snails. Then there was the issue of nutrition in early times, when under-nourishment led to the loss of libido and reduced fertility rates. This, according to researchers, could explain the basis for the use of animal parts, like the rhinoceros horn in Chinese tradition, as an aphrodisiac. Besides the fact that the rhino horn bears a phallic resemblance, it also consists of fibrous tissue with large proportions of calcium and phosphorous. In ancient times, Chinese diets may have been lacking in these elements and large doses of calcium and phosphorous from the rhino horn could have helped increased sexual vigour and stamina. Of the various foods to which aphrodisiac powers are traditionally attributed fish, vegetables, and spices have been the most popular throughout history.

Here are some several popular ingredients that have long been held a reputation as potent aphrodisiacs:

Oysters - Oysters were documented as aphrodisiac food by the Romans in the second century. Some say the oyster resembles female genitals. In reality, oysters are very nutritious and high in protein.

Asparagus - Given its phallic shape, asparagus is frequently enjoyed as aphrodisiac food. In Vegetarian Society in the United States suggests eating asparagus for three days for the "most powerful effect".

Almonds - A symbol of fertility throughout the ages, its aroma is thought to induce passion in women.

Bananas - The banana flower has a phallic shape, which partially accounts for its popularity as an aphrodisiac. From a more practical standpoint, bananas are rich in potassium and B-group vitamins, both essential for sex hormone production.

Chocolate - The Aztecs referred to chocolate as "nourishment of the gods". It contains chemicals thought to effect neurotransmitters in the brain. The best part: chocolate contains more antioxidants than red wine.

Coffee - Caffeine is a well-known stimulant, but too much, and it becomes a depressant. Coffee stimulate both body and mind, so partake of a little in preparation of an "all-nighter".

Nutmeg - Nutmeg was highly prized by Chinese women as an aphrodisiac. In large quantity, nutmeg can produce a hallucinogenic effect.

Pine nuts - Zinc is a mineral necessary to maintain male potency, and pine nuts are rich in zinc. Pine nuts have been used to stimulate the libido as far back as medieval times.

Pineapple - Rich in Vitamin C and used in homeopathic treatment for impotence.

Raspberries and Strawberries - Both invite love and are described in erotic literature as "fruit nipples". They are also high in Vitamin C.

Truffles - The Greeks and the Romans considered the rare truffle to be an aphrodisiac. The musky scent is said to stimulate and sensitise the skin to touch.

Vanilla - Montezuma, the ancient Aztec leader, laced his hot chocolate with vanilla as the scent is believed to stir lust. On the other hand, some have compared its comforting, warm aroma to breast milk.