Originally published February 14 2005
List of aphrodisiacs has a few surprises; mustard and asparagus among the foods that spur romance
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
You've likely heard (or maybe even experienced) that chocolate, strawberries and even oysters have that special ability to bring on "the mood." Now, the Rocky Mountain News has recently published a new list of aphrodisiacs, and it has a few surprises. Mustard and asparagus join carrots, bananas, almonds, licorice, vanilla and others on the list of foods that have been known to inspire romance.
Chocolate - its Latin name means "food of the gods" - packs a passion punch in a small package.
Nutritionwise, it's chock-full of potassium and magnesium and contains heart-healthy flavonoids.
--Theobromine, a central nervous system stimulant that facilitates muscular exertion, acts as a diuretic and stimulates appetite.
An average-size chocolate bar contains approximately 6 mg of caffeine, compared to 100 to 150 mg in a cup of coffee.
--Phenylethylamine, the chemical released in our bodies when we fall in love that is chemically similar to amphetamines, therefore acting as a psycho-stimulant.
--Tryptophan, an essential amino acid that increases the production of serotonin, an antidepressant and natural stress-reducer.
A decrease in serotonin levels in the brain might trigger cravings for starches, sweet foods and chocolate.
--Endorphins, natural opiates released by the brain in increased amounts when eating chocolate, thereby elevating your mood and reducing perception of pain.
--Phenols, also found in red wine, tea, fruits and vegetables, which might help reduce the risk of heart disease.
-- Catechins, antioxidants that might help protect the body against cardiovascular disease and possibly cancer, found in substantially higher quantities in chocolate than in black tea.
Chocolate has two ingredients that inhibit the natural breakdown of anandamide to keep you feeling better longer.
-- Aniseed - used by Greeks and Romans.
Suck on the seeds to increase desire.
-- Almond - A traditional fertility symbol, the smell is thought to turn women on.
-- Bananas - Full of nutrients that help production of sex hormones.
-- Basil - a feel-good herb thought to improve libido and fertility.
-- Celery - contains an arousing male hormone.
-- Coriander - aka cilantro seed, an aphrodisiac that dates back 1,000 years.
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