For thousands of years, people have searched for edible items to guarantee peak sexual performance and pleasure. Ancient Romans swore by hippo snouts, while even now, tiger penis is thought to be a libido booster in China.
Luckily for you (and these animals), there are healthier and more palatable foods that give you longer-lasting results than quick-fix aphrodisiacs. We’ve chalked up a day’s aphrodisiac-based meal plan, but if you’re vibing something else, just work the ingredients into whatever recipe your heart and private parts desire.
I’ve discovered that the best food for more mojo is food that feeds your body, your brain and your taste buds all at the same time. However, not all food is equally suitable before heavy activity. So we’ve incorporated the best and most dietary sustainable aphrodisiacs below. You can even make a fun date out of cooking these with your partner.
You’ll need:
- Blueberry or cherry juice (1 cup, or a handful of fresh fruit)
- Ginger (1 nub, skin included)
- Watermelon (1 cup, diced)
- Flaxseed oil (2 tablespoons)
Blend it up! It’s as simple as that. The combination of these ingredients, especially with the help of ginger, will increase your blood flow and heighten your sensitivity, providing more energy for better and longer love making. Set your alarm 15 minutes earlier than normal, drink your juice, and wake your partner up with some amazing morning sex. It won’t matter what side of the bed you woke up on, the rest of your day will be off to a good start (and finish).
You’ll need:
- Pineapple Juice (1 cup, or a handful of fresh pineapple)
- Celery (1 stalk)
- Spinach (½ cup, loose)
- Banana (1 whole)
- Dark Chocolate (as much as you want)
It’s no surprise among a lot of fruits that pineapple helps impotence through libido boosting. It’s rich and antioxidants and loaded with vitamin C, which aid the creation of happy hormones. It also offers a good source of Manganese, which in particular helps men with prostate health. Let’s also not forget the most common sexual improvement caused by pineapple… better tasting ejaculation. But is it true? There’s not much scientific evidence to back this claim, but we don’t see how it could hurt it.
Bananas also contain an enzyme that increases energy levels and boosts testosterone production. And we all know that chocolate contributes to that “happy hormone” called dopamine, which is why we eat it when we’re PMSing or simply craving comfort food.
You’ll need:
- Maca powder (1 cup)
- Oats (2 cups)
- Cashews (1 ½ cups)
- Flax seeds (¼ cup)
- Honey (¾ cup)
- Water (¼ cup)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
There’s a reason why maca is coined the “Peruvian Viagra.” This root is scientifically proven to boost libido and erectile function. Cashews also contribute to increased blood flow. When it comes to sex, blood circulation isn’t just important for men. Between the clitoris and the tissue surrounding the vulva, erectile response is also beneficial for a woman’s sexual experience. They’re all rich in L-Arginine, which improves sexual function by boosting circulation, and thus erectile response. Basically, most of the foods on this list are related to circulation because good circulation = good sex! So get flowing.
You’ll need:
- Ginkgo leaves (3 cups)
- EVOO (½ cup)
- Cashews (1 cup)
- Miso (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (1 tablespoon)
- Your favorite spices (1 tablespoon)
- Pasta (your choice)
Ginkgo is an ancient Chinese ailment known for helping with depression and sexual function. It increases blood flow by relaxing blood vessels. Also, who doesn’t love pesto? Paired with pasta, it’s a go-to comfort food and it’s important to feel comfortable with your lover. But don’t even think about feeling guilty about this comfort food because it’s vegan! Gingko leaves are good for you and your sex life. Pass the pasta, please! Also, if you haven’t looked up the benefits from cashews, it ranges anywhere from rich in protein to lowering your risk of gallstones. Always say yes to nuts… in your… mouth.
You’ll need:
- Saffron (2 pinches)
- Basmati rice (2 cups)
- Onion (½, minced)
- Chicken or vegetable stalk (3 cups)
- Salt (1 tablespoon)
- Tofu (10 ounces, diced)
- Garlic (5 cloves, diced)
Saffron is proven to reduce stress and enhance overall mood. Maybe this justifies why it’s one of the most expensive spices, but a little goes a very long way. Upping your soy intake also has a number of beneficial effects to your sexual experiences. Soy binds estrogen receptors, which not only helps the vagina to stay lubricated, but also diminishes symptoms of menopause like hot flashes. Guys can also benefit from having a soyfriend, as studies have shown that it keeps the prostate healthy.
You’ll need:
- Tahini (¼ cup)
- Flour (1 cup)
- Cinnamon (½ teaspoon)
- Honey (¼ cup)
- EVOO (¼ cup)
- Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon)
Don’t you dare think for one minute that we’d leave out dessert. While we’re all for having some fun with whipped cream or chocolate syrup, here’s a new alternative that will still get you going. This recipe is also vegan, which proves that being animal-free can be beyond sexy. Tahini is typically a condiment made from sesame seeds which is common in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. This creamy mixture, sweetened with honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, makes for one simple yet badass aphrodisiac dessert.
You’ll need:
- Apple flavored brandy (yes, it exists)
- Bubbly water
- Ginger beer
- Lemon juice
- Whiskey
While alcohol may inhibit our decision-making outside of moderation, it can also make us incredibly friskey. The Brandy Handy is a refreshing twist on a classic spirit, incorporating some antioxidant-based ingredients to get things flowing.
You’ll need:
- Tequila (your favorite)
- Sweetening syrup (agave, honey, etc.)
- Orange liqueur
- Cranberry Juice
- Ginger beer
The Sexarita, otherwise known as the Sex and the City Margarita, is sure to perk some ears. It’s got a combination of exotic flavors that may just make your mouth orgasm. Once again, it incorporates some delicious fruits alongside the anti-inflammatory effects of ginger.
Use It, Don’t Lose It
So now that your diet is optimized for more O’s, what do you do with this newfound fitness? Share it of course! Eating the proper food is only half the battle when it comes to maintaining your healthy sensuality, so be sure to make good use of it with someone special by adding some of these intimate items to your chef’s kit.