Fun with Aphrodisiacs

Trying new things with your partner can be fun and can add to your bank of memories together. Some couples find that experimenting with aphrodisiacs is a fun and easy way to spice up the relationship.  Below are some different types of aphrodisiacs that may be fun to try with your partner.

Get the blood pumping

Aphrodisiacs that do seem to provide a small boost do so by stimulating increased blood flow throughout the body – especially below the waist.K-Y^® Warming^® Jelly works on this very principle; so does capsaicin, the active ingredient in hot chili peppers (though rubbing hot chili peppers all over your sensitive areas is not the best idea). You might feel a little flushed and tingly so enjoy!

Suggestively shaped aphrodisiacs

Many food items with an aphrodisiac reputation are suggestive in shape or texture. The phallic character of asparagus, bananas and carrots can't help but spark the imagination. Other foods – think avocados, mangoes and figs – are more suggestive of a woman's anatomy.

Chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a compound that induces feelings of warmth and well-being in both women and men. Other reputed aphrodisiacs are simply sensually indulgent, from sweet sticky honey to juicy grapes to silky chocolate. The sense of smell seems to be particularly linked to a reputation for inducing amorousness, which is why truffles, vanilla and saffron make the list of traditional aphrodisiacs.

Aphrodisiac food to try

Many of the aphrodisiacs with the best reputation are food-based, which is nice for several reasons. It can be delightful to concoct and share a sensual, romantic menu based around some of these foods – consider it a mutual seduction. When planning the menu, think in terms of taste and mouth-feel; silky, creamy sensations are particularly apt here.

Start with an oyster appetizer, move onto a main course of lobster and finish with strawberries and whipped cream. You don't have to roll out a three-course dinner to play with your food, of course. You can take turns feeding each other simple foods like grapes or ice cream.  The important part is being present in the moment, taking time to savor your food and the fun anticipation of dessert.

References

• Intercourses, An Aphrodisiac Cookbook; Martha Hopkins et. a;
• Cornell University Law School Legal Information Institute: Drug Products Containing Active Ingredients Offered Over-the-Counter (OTC) for Use as an Aphrodisiac New York Times: Eating Spicy Foods -- What Are the Effects? 
• io9.com: Why Spanish Fly Only Works On Men. And Is Deadly. 
• Saveur: Aphrodisiacs -- Foods to Fuel Your Appetites
• Cosmopolitan: Aphrodisiac Foods That Feed Your Sex Drive 

User Bio

Lori A. Selke has been a professional writer and editor for more than 15 years, touching on topics ranging from LGBT issues to sexuality and sexual health, parenting, alternative health, popular music, film and video, food and cooking. Her work has appeared in "Curve Magazine," "Girlfriends," "Libido," "The Children's Advocate," Decider.com, "The SF Weekly," SexIs.com, EthicalFoods.com and GoMag.com. She is also the co-editor of the fifth edition of the landmark sexuality resource guide "The Black Book."