Have you ever felt amorous after eating chocolate? Well, cocoa, which is found in chocolate, is frequently claimed to have aphrodisiac properties, particularly in women. Aphrodisiac is a magical potion that stimulates sexual desire and improves the performance and pleasure of the sexual activity. So, if you want to have an intimate and indulgent meal with your partner on Valentine’s Day, here a few aphrodisiacs to increase sex drive and get you in the mood!

While chocolate is considered an aphrodisiac, it is not backed by strong scientific evidence. So, to find some science-backed aphrodisiac foods that may boost your sex drive, HealthShots got in touch with Deepti Lokeshappa, senior consultant, nutritionist, and dietician, Motherhood Hospitals, Indiranagar, Bengaluru.

Aphrodisiac foods to boost sex life

Low libido can say a lot about your health, but you can work on it! Lokeshappa says, “An aphrodisiac is a food or a drug that increases your sexual desire as it is responsible for increasing your libido, enhancing pleasure, as well as improving potency. In fact, they can improve fertility and promote healthy reproductive organs.”

Here are 6 healthy aphrodisiacs that you and your partner may indulge in to lift your spirits on Valentine’s Day, and beyond:

1. Avocados

Avocado contains healthy unsaturated fat which is crucial for hormone health. This fruit is rich in B-vitamin folate which produces histamine, a compound that is released during orgasms or when one gets aroused. Additionally, they can lessen premenstrual syndrome symptoms (such as fatigue, bloating, and irritability). So munch on them to increase your energy and set your mood!

2. Red ginseng

Found in many Asian countries, red ginseng is a helpful aphrodisiac food that has a variety of possible health benefits such as cardiovascular protection, enhanced immunity, antioxidant properties, and the ability to boost libido. Red ginseng also improves erectile dysfunction and slows down premature ejaculation.

Also read: Reishi mushroom for sex drive: Know all about this natural aphrodisiac

3. Saffron

Saffron is a spice with a strong flavour and aphrodisiac qualities that are frequently used in Indian and Moroccan cuisine. It causes more erections for extended periods of time, boosts female arousal, and produces more natural lubrication. According to Lokeshappa, saffron is beneficial for men’s erectile dysfunction and can increase sex drive in men.

4. Oysters

Oysters are well-known aphrodisiacs rich in zinc which help to regulate testosterone and also contributes to improving dopamine, a neurotransmitter connecting senses of pleasure which in turn boosts your libido. It contains omega-3 fatty acids as well which increases blood flow in the body and prevents loss of sex drive.

Also read: Valentine’s Day: 5 smart tips to choose the right partner

5. Pomegranate

Pomegranates stand true to their name the “love apple”. Rich in antioxidants and nutritional properties, pomegranates increase testosterone levels which stimulate sexual appetite. Pomegranates also help in improving mood, reducing stress, and increasing memory – all attributing to happiness and rejuvenation.

6. Pistachios

Pistachios are regarded as a very advantageous nut for increasing sex drive. They might boost blood flow, which might result in a firmer erection. They naturally stimulate the body for sex because they include the amino acid L-arginine, which increases nitric oxide levels and blood flow to the sex organs.

So eat these foods and set your mood on your special day!