Some originated because of their nutritional value, since malnutrition is a cause of loss of libido. Others derived their aphrodisiac label from Greek mythology. The goddess Aphrodite considered sparrows sacred because of their amorous nature and thus they were included in many aphrodisiac concoctions.

Here are some foods, which fall into the ancient definition of an aphrodisiac:

• Asparagus
  - most likely due to its phallic shape. Eating asparagus for three days is supposed to give the most powerful result.
• Almond
  - a symbol of fertility thought to induce passion in women.
• Avocado
  - called Ahuacuatl by the Aztecs which means testicle tree.
• Bananas
  - another phallic shaped food rich in potassium and B vitamins which are essential for sex hormone production.
• Chocolate
  - contains chemicals which release endorphins - pair with red wine for an added aphrodisiac affect.
• Coffee
  - primarily due to its caffeine content. Caffeine is a well-known stimulant which causes feeling of well being.
• Figs
  - an open fig is thought to resemble the female sex organs.
• Garlic
  - thought to stir sexual desire (be sure you both partake).
• Honey
  - believed to cure fertility and impotence.
• Oysters
  - naturally high in protein - thought to resemble female genitalia.
• Strawberries
  - perfect for feeding to each other (add a little whipped cream for an even more romantic experience).
• Vanilla
  - the scent is thought to increase lust.

More foods that are also considered aphrodisiacs are:

- “rocket” (Arugula) seed has been documented as an aphrodisiac since before the birth of Christ. This ingredient was added to grated orchid bulbs and parsnips and also combined with pine nuts and pistachios. Arugula greens are frequently used in salads and pasta.

Asafetida
- any Indian dried, powedere herb used as a sexual stimulant in Ayurvedic medicine. The herb has a very strong, garlicy flavor

.Basil (sweet basil)
- is said to stimulate the sex drive and boost fertility. It is also said to produce a general sense of well being for body and mind.

Broccoli Rabe (And Other Mustard Greens)
- the ground seeds of various plants in the brassica family were believed to increase virility. In the case of broccoli rabe its more likely a myth created to get people to eat this bitter vegetable.

Carrots

- another good reason to eat carrots–believed to be a stimulant to the male. The phallus shaped carrot has been associated with stimulation since ancient times and was used by early Middle Eastern royalty to aid seduction. High vitamins and beta-carotene. Perhaps a justification for a piece of carrot cake?

Coriander (Cilantro seed)
- the book of The Arabian nights tells a tale of a merchant who had been childless for 40 years and but was cured by a concoction that included coriander. That book is over 1000 years old so the history of coriander as an aphrodisiac dates back far into history. Cilantro was also know to be used as an “appetite” stimulant.

Fennel
- in the 1930’s fennel was found to be a source of natural plant estrogens. Use of fennel as an aphrodisiac dates back to the Egyptian times where it was used as “libido enhancement”.

Ginger
- ginger root raw, cooked or crystallized is a stimulant to the circulatory system. Perhaps a stir-fry with freshly grated ginger can stir something spicy up in the bedroom later.

Liquorice (licorice)
- the Chinese have used licorice for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The essence of the Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) plan, glycrrhizin, is 50 time sweeter than sugar. Chewing on bits of licorice root is said to enhance love and lust. It is particularly stimulating to woman.

Mustard
- believed to stimulate the sexual glands and increase desire. Prepare a tenderloin roast (filet mignon) for two with a mustard and peppercorn sauce.

Nutmeg
-nutmeg was highly prized by Chinese women as an aphrodisiac. In quantity nutmeg can produce a hallucinogenic effect. A light sprinkling of the spice in a warm pumpkin soup can help spice up your evening.

Pine Nuts
- zinc is a key mineral necessary to maintain male potency and pine nuts are rich in zinc. Pine nuts have been used to stimulate the libido as far back as Medieval times. Serve pine nut cookies with a dark espresso for a stimulating dessert.

Pineapple
- rich in vitamin C and and is used in the homeopathic treatment for impotence. Add a spear to a sweet Rum drink for a tasty prelude to an evening of passion.

Truffles
- the Greeks and the Romans considered the rare Truffle to be an aphrodisiac. The musky scent is said to stimulate and sensitize the skin to touch.

Wine
- a glass or two of wine can greatly enhance a romantic interlude. A moderate amount of wine has been said to “arouse” but much more than that amount with have the reverse affect.