With Valentine's Day fast approaching we try and get you in the mood.
CHILLIES, CURRIES AND OTHER SPICY FOODS have been viewed as aphrodisiacs because their physiological effects - a raised heart rate and sometimes sweating - are similar to the physical reactions experienced during sex. However, those relying on the postpub curry for a libido lift may be better off skipping the beer and wine. Alcohol is actually a depressant, and so, as the porter in Shakespeare's Macbeth observed, it "provoketh the desire, but taketh away the performance".
The word GINSENG means "man root", and the plant's reputation as an aphrodisiac probably arises from its marked similarity to the human body. Ginseng has been looked on as an invigorating and rejuvenating agent for centuries and its root may have a mild stimulant action, like coffee.
Given its phallic shape, ASPARAGUS is frequently enjoyed as an aphrodisiac. Many ancient peoples believed that an object resembling genitalia may possess sexual powers. The Vegetarian Society suggests "eating asparagus for three days for the most powerful effect".
The Aztecs called the AVOCADO tree Ahuacuatl, which translated means testicle tree. The ancients thought the fruit, hanging in pairs, resembled testicles. Its creamy texture is also thought to be sensuous.
BANANAS are rich in potassium and B vitamins, necessary for sex hormone production. Their popularity as an aphrodisiac food may also stem from their phallic shape. An Islamic myth tells the tale that after Adam and Eve succumbed to the "apple" they started covering their nudity with banana leaves rather than fig leaves.
An open FIG is thought by some to emulate the female sex organs and is traditionally thought of as a sexual stimulant. Some believe that a man breaking open a fig and eating it in front of his lover is a powerful erotic act. No wonder our grannies tucked into those Fig rolls!
Many medicines in Egyptian times were based on HONEY, including cures for sterility and impotence. Medieval seducers plied their partners with mead, a fermented drink made from honey and lovers on their "honeymoon" drank mead as it was thought to sweeten the marriage.
The Chinese have used LIQUORICE for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The essence of the liquorice plant, glycrrhizin, is 50 times sweeter than sugar. Chewing on bits of liquorice root is said to enhance love and lust and is apparently, particularly stimulating to women. Perhaps that box of Liquorice Comfits that your great aunt bought you for
Christmas isn't so bad after all!