Are aphrodisiacs real? People all over the world, for centuries, have sure thought so.Mental Floss's
10 Aphrodisiacs Around The World runs down some of the most popular concoctions for livening up the libido.
Of course, in the Northwest we know the magical properties of the oyster, and we're not alone:
Nutritionally, oysters are high in zinc content, which is essential to testosterone production—testosterone being a key component in both male and female arousal. Now we know why Casanova liked to start his day in a hot tub with oysters served on a woman's breasts. Not that anyone needs a reason.
According to a 1990 study in the Archives of Internal Medicine, drinking coffee increased sexual activity in 744 participating Michigan residents over the age of 60, strongly suggesting that caffeine promotes arousal. That, or the subjects confused the study with a casting call for another sequel to Cocoon. While caffeine has not yet been directly linked to an increased sex drive, the consensus in the medical community is that anything that gets the central nervous system pumping will have a general stimulating effect on the body.
This one's a little out there, but . . . . if you say so:
But of all the foods held in high esteem for sexual enhancement, asparagus reigns supreme. In 19th-century France, it was customary for bridegrooms to down three courses of asparagus at their prenuptial dinners.
Sure, there's that weird pee smell thing, but in 19th-century France I'm sure things smelled pretty bad already.
