Researchers from the University of Guelph in Ontario have examined hundreds of other scientific studies and determined a list of REALÂ aphrodisiacs, foods that boost sexual performance or sexual desire. That means these foods will help your "performance" without the need for other drugs like Viagra or Cialis.
These guys boost sexual function:
1. Saffron: An extremely potent spice used in Indian and Italian cooking. It comes from the flower of the saffron crocus, making it hard to harvest and extremely expensive. The good news is you need very little in each dish.
2. Ginseng: This is a root that has been shown to boost memory and stamina. Used commonly in teas, but can be used in a variety of other dishes as well.
3. Yohimbine: A natural chemical from trees in West Africa. It has been known to cause anxiety as a side effect. Not clear how/if it is possible to use this in cooking.
These foods have been shown to boost sexual desire, but not function.
1. Muira puama: This flowering plant can be found in Brazil and has been used to increase sexual desire. Some also call it "Potency Wood." Can't find any good recipes for cooking with it though.
2. Maca root:This root vegetable is native to the Andes. It can be cooked or used as an extract. Supposedly, it can added to smoothies or milkshakes.
3. Chocolate: That's a relief to everyone, right? Bad news is that chocolate shows no signs of being linked to arousal or satisfaction. It could all be in your head.
Certain things that we think of as aphrodisiacs actually have no effect, or can be harmful to take. These include Spanish fly and Bufo toad. Alcohol was shown to increase sexual desire, but to impede sexual performance.
Photos by zoyachubby and centralasian
