Rediff.com« Back to articlePrint this article

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

These fruits, vegetables and herbs are the secrets to enjoying a good sex life.

When you give something, you can expect to get something in return. And it's give-and-take which shapes the sweetness or sourness of any relationship. It's a mixture of some amount of mental compatibility, some amount of adjustments and fulfillment of your partner's desires which makes up a perfect relationship. And sex is an inseparable part of a man-woman relationship.

It is sex which leaves back the witness of love and your lovemaking moments. It is sex which ensures the continuity of generations. And we being humans with aesthetic senses, don't view sex as just a reproductive mechanism. Sexual pleasure does carry some amount of weight in our life. And this is why, we pay so much respect to the aphrodisiacs -- substances that increase sexual desire.

The name comes from 'Aphrodite', the Greek goddess of sexuality and love. An aphrodisiac food is one that is believed to stimulate the sex drive while enhancing the sexual performance. Romans and Greeks have been using aphrodisiac foods to enhance sexual drive and power since time immemorial.

Note: Our intent here is to provide good and clean content on sexual health. We want to resolve all the mis-conceptions and curiosities about this subject. If you feel uncomfortable because of any article in this section, please let us know.

 is one of the most trusted sources of information about good health and wellness. To those who want to manage their health themselves, LifeMojo provides necessary information, tips, tracking tools and support to help them stay informed and motivated.

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

The different aphrodisiac foods

1. Avocado

The vitamin B6 contained in the avocado is said to increase male hormone production. Avocado also contains potassium which aids in regulating the female thyroid gland.

2. Asparagus

It contains vitamin E, which is believed to stimulate sex hormones, which in turn, contribute to a healthy sex life and increased sexual power.

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

3. Bananas

Bananas contain potassium and B vitamins which are essential for sex hormone production.

4. Capsicum and Chilies

'Capsaicin', a chemical that stimulates our nerve endings and raises our pulse, is thought to release endorphins, which give our bodies a natural high.

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

5. Sweet Basil

Some people believe that basil stimulates sex drive and boosts fertility. It is also believed to create a sense of well-being in our bodies and minds.

6. Chocolate

Chocolate contains a stimulant called phenylethylamine, which gives a sense of well-being and excitement similar to the natural high that endorphins give us. Researchers believe that chocolate contains chemicals that affect neuro-transmitters in the brain and a substance related to caffeine called theobromine.

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

7. Oysters

Oysters are a rich source of zinc, a mineral required for testosterone production. This male hormone is believed to increase female libido. Oysters are high in protein and they are very nutritious as well.

8. Wine

Wine relaxes our inhibitions and stimulates our senses. The actual drinking of wine can be an erotic experience. Moderate amounts of wine are believed to 'arouse', but excessive alcohol can make you drowsy.

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

Different aphrodisiac herbs

9. Ashwagandha

The herb is useful for sexual strength enhancement and it benefits conditions like general senile or seminal debility. It cures sterility in women if taken for a few days soon after the menstrual period.

10. Shilajeet

It helps in enhancing the energies in the body that are highly required for completing the sexual act. It is helpful in regularising the menses in women. It enhances the libido and promotes male reproductive health.

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

11. Saffron (Kesar)

It's said that Cleopatra added it to her bath in the belief that it enhanced sensitivity and pleasure.

12. Shatawari

It serves as an excellent sexual stimulator.It helps with issues such as sexual weakness, female lubrication, impotence and menopausal problems.

It also increases semen and nourishes the female reproductive organs. It is said to increase fertility. Like ashwagandha, both sexes can benefit from this herb.

Top 15: Aphrodisiac foods to boost your libido

Last updated on: June 9, 2012 12:40 IST

13. Nutmeg (Jaiphal)

Nutmeg possesses aphrodisiac activity, increasing both libido and potency.

14. Giloy

Its regular use helps to detoxify the male reproductive system while rejuvenating it. Due to its adaptogenic and aphrodisiac properties, giloy helps to increase sperm count, sperm motility and erection time.

15. Guggul

It promotes general ability while enhancing the sperm count and sperm quality.

As you can see, nature offers its own assortment of aphrodisiacs and you may not need to buy Viagra or any other pill to boost your libido. It's best to accept the gifts of nature to support your body's 'internal nature'.