There’s a lot of knowing chit-chat about aphrodisiacs, as well as many urban myths. As food is nature’s pharmacy, what effect do some well-known foods have on bodily attraction?

The term “aphrodisiac” has its roots in Greek mythology when Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, rose from the sea on an oyster and gave birth to Eros. In ancient Greece, emphasis was placed upon fertility and sexual prowess rather than libido levels.

Foods which have traditionally been considered to have aphrodisiac qualities might not always seem that appetising – personally I find oysters a little hard to swallow – but using some imagination and creative presentation, why not tuck into some delicious aphrodisiac treats that are sure to start the blood flowing and set the hormones into a spin.

Strawberries are a perfect finger food — passionate red with sweet, sticky juice that is sure to tantalise your lover. They are also high in Vitamin C, which is needed for the growth and repair of body cells, keeping the skin, teeth and bones healthy. The amino acids in strawberries will help boost both libido and stamina.

Bananas are a fantastic source of energy, so feeding them to your lover will ensure they don’t run out of steam. They are rich in B vitamins which are essential in sexual hormone production and have been known to do wonders for the male libido.

Delicious asparagus is rich in Vitamin E, which is famed for its ability to stimulate increased sexual powers. Asparagus can be eaten as a finger food stem by stem. A bit of Hollandaise can really add to the sauce of this sexy starter.

Figs have always been considered an aphrodisiac food, partly due to their resemblance to sexual organs. They also contain the vital amino acids needed for a healthy sexual performance.

Basil is great for the circulation, and as we all know, sexual stamina is dependent upon blood flow. The sweet, green leaves are also said to boost fertility and our sense of safety, relaxation and well-being. The potent scent of Basil was traditionally said to attract the opposite sex.

Finally, nobody can argue that chocolate has to be the food of love. It contains a stimulant that creates a natural high, which feels similar to the effect of the release of endorphins in the brain. There are a million ways to have fun with chocolate, and containing more antioxidants than red wine, it should be great to stimulate those long lasting passionate encounters.

Rhian Gibbings

Where does the phrase “sowing your wild oats” came from? The sexually stimulating effects of oats have been known for years.

It has been widely reported that eating porridge oats can balance the hormones and boost testosterone levels, which has a direct effect on the libido.

However, oats are responsible for much more than that, according to “wise woman”, Susun Weed, who states that oats and oatstraw are a modern-day love potion.

It’s claimed that oats and oatstraw clear fatty deposits from the blood, lowering cholesterol levels and easing the beat of the heart. Weed says that that oats will nourish the nerves so that you receive more pleasure from touch, revitalise the glands so that hormones flow more readily and increase the blood flow so that it can circulate freely to the pelvis.

In addition, Oats can stabilise the blood sugar levels so that you’re not dropping off when the action heats up!

In her book, Healing Wise, Weed suggests a daily dose of fresh Oatstraw Tincture, or 1-4 cups of Oatstraw infusion every day, will act as a rejuvenator and love potion. Oatstraw baths are also recommended as a “delicious experience”.

If you don’t fancy that, however, perhaps a nice warm bowl of porridge in bed on a winter morning will do the trick.