If you are in the mood for love, the typical things used to set the stage are to turn the lights down low and put a little soft music on to create an atmosphere of romance. But did you know that various foods can also help you enhance the mood for a night of passion and excitement with that special someone? Aphrodisiacs have been used for centuries to encourage desire and passion. Serve up some aphrodisiac food after you’ve dimmed the lights and lit the candles and you might be headed to the bedroom quicker than you thought!

The word “aphrodisiac” is a substance that is thought to increase sexual desire. The word originates from Aphrodite, who was the Greek goddess of love. Although aphrodisiacs, in the form of food, liquid, and spices, have been used for centuries to heighten sex and boost sexual excitement, medical science has yet to prove if such substances actually enhance performance and desire. It’s possible that our bodies are actually craving certain nutrients and vitamins and that once we’ve indulged in a food that contains that needed substance, the libido is boosted.

Centuries ago, certain foods were considered aphrodisiacs because they looked like female or male genitalia. For example, bananas and carrots are eaten for their supposed aphrodisiac effects and they both resemble male genitals. Oysters and figs, two other aphrodisiacs, are symbolic of female sex organs. And while these are all tasty foods, they each contain important vitamins and minerals that are crucial to good health and nutrition. Carrots are loaded with vitamin A, which is essential to eye health. Bananas contain potassium, an important mineral for sexual health. Calcium and other minerals are found in figs. Oysters are full of zinc, a critical mineral in sperm production, and also are a great protein source.

Most women will be thrilled to know that their favorite food, chocolate, is a well-known aphrodisiac. In recent years, studies have shown that dark chocolate contains more antioxidant properties than other food and beverages like red wine and grape juice. That sure sounds like one good reason to tempt your taste buds! Pure dark chocolate helps the brain release chemicals that provide the body with sensations of well-being. That explains the reason why chocolate is given as a gift on Valentine’s Day. Not only is it a symbol of sweetness, but its aphrodisiac qualities can assist in turning up the heat between two lovers.

Various spices are said to have aphrodisiac qualities, too. These include cardamom, ginger, and basil. Since scents can heighten desire and stimulate the senses, these three spices are perfect to incorporate into your menu when planning for passion. Ginger is spicy and rich while basil is sweeter and less intense. Cardamom is quite aromatic. Each of these spices has a unique scent, so it’s a great idea to add them to various dishes. Basil is a perfect addition to poultry, fish or pasta. Ginger is also tasty on chicken and in desserts. Cardamom pairs well with fish and meats.

Wine also can have aphrodisiac qualities in small to moderate quantities. Wine has warming properties, it tastes delicious, and it lowers inhibitions while heightening the senses. Don’t overdo it though, because too much wine will make you want to reach for your pillow and take a snooze rather than reach for your partner.

Strawberries and honey are two foods that figure well into love and sex. Strawberries are delectable, sweet, and heart-shaped. Honey has a rich color, which appeals to the sense of sight, and is legendary for being used during the honeymoon period of marriage to offer sweetness while helping to boost stamina – a perfect combination for lovemaking. Tie these two treats together in a delicious appetizer or as a finish to a great meal for both aesthetic appeal and to excite the sexual senses.

So, while there aren’t any medical facts to back up aphrodisiac foods as being helpful to increase passion and desire, it doesn’t matter to most couples. In fact, sampling some aphrodisiacs together can surely make for a memorable culinary and passionate experience. Try a night at home with your lover and a tray full of delectable items like chocolate, figs dipped in honey, and oysters. These tasty treats will surely add sensual pleasure while you are dining on them and that could mean some late hours in the bedroom.