Aphrodite fresco from Pompeii
As you probably know, an aphrodisiac is a substance or object believed to increase sexual desire, potency, and pleasure. The belief in aphrodisiacs extends back in time at least to the ancient Greeks. In fact, the term itself is derived from the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite.
The idea of culinary aphrodisiacs has been around for an equally long time and doesn't show any signs of going away. Many foods considered aphrodisiacs by the ancients, such as oysters or bananas, remain strong contenders today. Others, like sparrow brains and lizard flesh, have (thankfully) fallen off the list.
Evidence exists that the following eight foods, all commonly available today, may have genuine aphrodisiacal qualities. That being said, maybe you’ll want to bring a hunk of chocolate or a small jar of fig chutney along on your honeymoon…?
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