Aphrodisiacs for St. Valentine's Day
| Published: 19th January 2008 11:52 |
Aphrodisiacs for St. Valentine's Day
Asparagus
Asparagus has more going for it than its erotic shape. Packed with vitamins, it's delicious when steamed and treated to lashings of melted butter and shavings of parmesan 
Avocado
The Aztecs are rumoured to be one of the first people to think of avocados as a love potion. It didn't take long for the Spanish to catch-on that this fruity treat had a lot going for it. So widespread was its reputation, that for a time, Catholic priests banned their parishioners from eating this popular fruit. 
Caviar
Caviar's a luxury choice for indulging your partner. Besides being rich in vitamins and minerals, it's also a stimulant. Metal implements should not be used with caviar as this can affect the taste. 
Champagne
Perhaps the best known aphrodisiac of all-time, nothing beats the sensual appeal of Champagne. Perhaps it's the bubbles, the fresh flavour, or maybe the price that makes us flip. One thing's for sure - no Valentine's Day celebration would be complete without it. 
Chocolate
Even scientists agree that chocolate comes up trumps when it comes to feel good factors. So powerful is its magnetic draw that a few monasteries banned it for being too much of a stimulant food. Even the aroma of chocolate, especially when melted, is enough to trigger a build-up of hormones! 
Chillies
In Mexico, chilli-munching competitions are a much-celebrated event, which calls for displays of fiery macho-strength. Besides being a good source of vitamin C, red and green chillies help stimulate blood circulation. 
Figs
One of the fruitiest of fruits, figs have long been associated with erotica, and are said to be a potent sexual stimulant. In southern Europe, figs are often thrown at newly married couples as a token of well-being and fertility. Cleopatra couldn't keep her hands off this sensuous fruit - and her love life was legendary! 
Honey
Associated with love potions, the Egyptians believed that honey could cure barrenness and impotence. In England, during medieval times, newly married couples would share a cup of mead in the hope that their marriage would be a long and sweet one. 
Oysters
Rumour has it that Casanova, perhaps the world's best known lover, used to eat 50 raw oysters every day - his secret to securing a passionate love life. Oysters are also remarkably low in fat and packed with healthy vitamins. 
Berries
Strawberries and raspberries are the final word in sparkling style. Great on their own, they're especially lush when combined with Champagne or chocolate. Strawberries are a sexy food to eat, biting into the red engorged firm fruit, heaven. It's just a shame that they're not at their best until summertime.
