The use of foods considered as aphrodisiacs has a great tradition throughout history, since many cultures have been concerned since ancient times with enhancing or stimulate sexuality in the couple, in studying what components present in roots, spices, sweets, fruits and even plants, may be able to provide us with that "spark" capable of increasing our sexual desire for our partner. But is this possible? Is it true that aphrodisiacs have this interesting virtue? Or is it perhaps our brain the true stimulant of desire and the pleasure?
The word "aphrodisiac" has its origin in the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, a term that today has perhaps been extended excessively to be associated with a myriad of substances capable of enhancing our libido and even our fertility. Sometimes, it was enough for a food to have a certain resemblance to the sexual organs to be considered as stimulants of sexuality: oysters, ginger roots, banana ... but the reality is that so far scientists have not reached a conclusion clear on the subject. Neurochemical effects that these foods have on our brain are as varied as they are complex. What is clear are two things: there are elements in some fruits or spices that are very beneficial for our sexual health, and, in addition, we have to take into account all those psychological factors that accompany the seduction process.
Most popular aphrodisiacs: myths and facts
- Cinnamon: It has a long tradition as an aphrodisiac, and its flavor and perfume are as exciting as they are pleasant, but also among its medicinal properties is the ability to stimulate blood circulation in the abdomen and genitals. It is then that cinnamon increases "sexual desire". Its essential components are particularly healthy for our body, hence its relevance.
- Chocolate: It is another of the most classic aphrodisiacs. Its main secret lies in its property to increase our level of endorphins: chocolate has a pleasant taste for most people, and any act that the brain judges as pleasant rewards it by secreting endorphins. As a curiosity, we will tell you that these pleasant properties tend to increase if it is taken hot.
- Peanuts, walnuts and almonds: Its vasodilator properties are also very suitable for sexuality and also contain magnesium and tryptophan. They provide us with energy while relaxing us, a favorable combination so that our body is in good condition for sexuality.
- Strawberries and raspberries: They are a very beneficial source of antioxidants, they keep our cells young and provide us with energy while increasing our level of endorphins. Some aphrodisiacs par excellence that usually accompany our desserts in those intimate dinners, they may not increase our sexual desire by themselves, but they do provide us with the necessary nutrients to be in good condition.
- Celery and beets: Their well-combined colors are usually present in many romantic dinners, but behind their mythos as aphrodisiacs and libido facilitators, they hide some very healthy properties to take care of our urinary organs. In addition, they stimulate our circulation and are undoubtedly an ideal starter in the form of a salad in those special meetings.
The brain, the best aphrodisiac
After analyzing the properties of the most common aphrodisiacs, it is clear to us that taken by themselves, they will not enhance our libido or our sexuality, but are part of a context in which the game of seduction. Therefore, our brains are going to be the essential pieces for the true attraction to our partner to emerge. But let's take a closer look at the guidelines that form the basis of true aphrodisiacs: our neurotransmitters.
- The power of endorphins: endorphins are opioid neurotransmitters that our brain secretes when we feel good. Consuming chocolate, for example, is already something in itself pleasant whose effects can be increased if we combine them with the company of someone who attracts us. Endorphins appear in our brain by a simple caress, a look, a kiss. If in this context we include desserts, drinks and sweets that are pleasant to us, nothing will be able to overcome the effect of endorphins as aphrodisiacs.
- The components of the attraction: If endorphins appear when we feel comfortable, eat or do something nice, the estrogen they arise in those moments when we blush at a pleasant look, at a flattering phrase. The environment that we build with our partner will cause certain essential brain substances to emerge for attraction and sex to emerge. So, for example, when we share a dinner with someone we like, the laughter in the conversation will cause it to be released Serotonin. We will then feel more optimistic and joyful, and in this context, a glass of wine, a strawberry, almond and vanilla dessert will increase their effect to ignite desire and pleasure.
- Pheromones: Conclusion authentic natural aphrodisiacs of the human being or chemical substances secreted by the people who are commonly known as "the smell of love". They are transmitted through sweat and have the unique ability to cause attraction between partners.
We can conclude by commenting to you that although the most common aphrodisiacs do not have enough virtues by themselves to cause sexual attraction between couples, they are some ideal companions to contextualize a romantic encounter. Everything that is pleasing to our palate will act as a catalyst for those other aphrodisiacs that people naturally have in our brain, that is, neurotransmitters. They will start their work exciting us, making us feel comfortable and happy, but as long as we are the true architects of the situation creating a good atmosphere, seducing with looks and words. A game of seduction where food is always essential parts.