One of the mistakes that people often commit is to mistake Viagra pills as an aphrodisiac. Let us first understand the meaning of the word. An aphrodisiac is an agent or a substance that enhances sexual desire. Let us be very clear that there is a difference between desire and performance. Till the time Viagra was discovered, treatment of male impotence was solely in the domain of folk medicine. Some foods and substances, by the very appearance earned reputation of an aphrodisiac. Oysters, since they resemble the female genitalia and the phallic looking rhino horn are few examples. Other foods that became to known as such due to their shape include banana, carrot and asparagus. While these foods and substances have been in use since centuries, there is no medical evidence to support their reputation.

Because of the fact that there was no effective medicine to cure male impotency, the discovery of Viagra in 1997 was a landmark event. Male impotency or erectile dysfunction is a common problem in men above 50 but also seen at a younger age. Penile erection occurs from increased blood flow and its retention in the smooth cavities in the penis. Viagra effects on the PDE5 enzyme to increase blood flow into the penis and helps in obtaining a sustainable erection. The active ingredient in Viagra (sildenafil citrate) has a half life of 4 to 5 hours, which means that it is effective for up to 10 hours after ingestion. Ideally, it should be taken at least half hour before sex.

Viagra has been instrumental in bringing happiness in the lives of millions of men. Although two more drugs were approved by FDA after approval of sildenafil, Viagra still remains the number one pill for treatment of erectile dysfunction. Viagra helps only in obtaining an erection. You may get a Viagra sample to realize it full benefits.

The Viagra Pill is a highly effective medicine. Since its launch in 1997 many men have reported some additional benefits. Impotence usually causes depressive episodes that may progress into clinical depression. Satisfactory sex with Viagra helps in improving confidence and in turn helps in treatment of depression. Viagra is also effective in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension.

With the arrival of FDA approved pills it does not make sense to run after fake aphrodisiacs. These may have some effect upon increasing sexual desire but do not have any effect on penile erection. During the sexual act it is erection and penetration that matter the most. Viagra helps in obtaining a sustainable erection to have satisfactory sex.

The other two drugs, tadalafil and vardenafil, approved by FDA are equally effective in treating erectile dysfunction. Since Viagra was the first to be approved it has been in use for a longer period and its effects are better understood. You may also look for getting Generic Viagra pills if you wish to save money.

Ginseng is an herb in the genus Panax. It refers to eleven plant species and is a slow growing perennial plant and well known for its multiple benefits. It is also used as an aphrodisiac. Lack of sex drive is usually caused by fatigue and stress. This natural herb is an adaptogen that increases the body’s resistance to trauma, anxiety, fatigue and stress and greatly increase sex drive. The natural habitat of the herb is eastern Asia and found mostly in northern China, Korea and eastern Siberia. In ancient China it was priced even more than gold due to its all encompassing effect of the human body. The discovery of its aphrodisiacal properties is attributed to the resemblance of its natural state to an erect penis. The herb finds mentions in the ancient Indian scriptures dealing with treatment where its effect on sex drive is mentioned in detail. Despite that medical science still doubts whether they are effective or not. Medical science always wants to know the mechanism of action of herbs on the body. The fact is that our ancestors were not that advanced and relied basically on seeing results and were not bothered with how the panax roots worked. That is why most herbs have only anecdotal evidence, which is contested by medical science. Panax roots are however one of the most extensively researched herbs and is used by many pharmaceutical in energy and vitality supplements.

While other benefits ginseng extract are accepted, its efficacy as an aphrodisiac is still a matter of debate with scientists. However, it is interesting to note how this rhizome affects internal body systems. It does not affect secretion of hormones that are responsible for sex drive but has a direct affect on libido. In moderate doses it is a potent aphrodisiac.

A study on laboratory animals conducted by Southern Illinois University School of Medicine that American and Asian forms of the herb enhance libido and sexual performance. The effect is attributed to the direct effect of its components on gonads and central nervous system. Increase in sex drive, however, is one of the multiple ginseng benefits of ginsenosides, a class of compounds similar to steroids found exclusively in Panax roots.

All of the eleven species of the Panax genus are potent aphrodisiacs. Ginseng effects on the central nervous system eliminate stress and fatigue, which may be causing decrease in libido. Unlike synthetic drugs herbs have no side effects and are harmless. However, herbal medicine should be prepared according to the instructions contained in ancient texts. Herbal medicine is normally used as extracts, concoctions or in diluted forms.

The other likely effect is on HPTA, the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis, which plays a critical role in development of body systems including immune and reproductive systems. Panax roots are known to contain phytoestrogens, which are dietary estrogens. Dietary estrogens mildly imitate the action of natural estrogen and may also act as neutralize the effect of estrogens. Ginsenosides in ginseng can help in obtaining sustainable penile erection.

Truffles have long been considered as an aphrodisiac. Truffle is an edible subterranean fungus of the genus Tuber grown naturally in southwestern Europe and a legendary aphrodisiac of ancient Rome. There appeal may be simply because of their rarity but are still valued for their beneficial properties. Like all natural medicines their efficacy in increasing sex drive is contested by the medical world. The musky scent of truffle is similar to the male pheromone. True truffle belongs to the genus Tuber but the term is generally used to signify other underground fungi as well. Although many people are not able to catch its odor the fruiting body of truffle resembles deep fried sunflower seeds or walnuts. Soaked in water it gives a taste similar to soy sauce. Their underground growth is attributed to adaptation to forest fires and severe cold and drought. While mushrooms above the earth’s surface tend to get destroyed in such conditions the tuber keeps growing underneath.

There are many ways of using the tuber and is prized in culinary circles. It is suggested that keeping it overnight with rice or eggs in a tight jar transfers its flavor and benefits. Another popular way to consume it is through chocolate truffle. These are deliciously flavored chocolates that are available in various flavors for females as well as males. Most contain dark chocolate dotted with sugar crystals containing tuber to support endocrine and hormone function to improve male virility and sex drive in women. Chocolates, especially with the added sugar crystals provide a smooth feeling in the mouth and the caffeine, theobromine and tryptophan act as a stimulant. Whatever may be the mechanism the aromatic tuber does have an effect on sex drive one way or the other.

Natural aphrodisiacs can be used in a variety of ways. Besides chocolates, the tuber is also used in a truffle recipe to prepare meals. Black truffle shavings with truffle and sunflower oil, egg and bread makes a delicious and healthy. This version not only gives a better taste but is also cost effective. A truffle and champagne cocktail is another way of getting benefits of the aromatic herb.

The exotic reputation of truffle is associated with its contribution to male body odor. Its musky aroma adds to the male pheromones that are elaborately related to physical attraction. Truffle is best used with fresh eggs. Other truffle recipes include truffle sandwich, truffle with cabbage. A multicolored shellfish salad with pepper sauces and camembert cheese makes an exotic salad that looks tempted and tastes excellent.

Although it is contended that truffle is not an aphrodisiac in the true sense of the word but it is still used as one. However, it does make men more likeable and women more receptive to overtures. While both white and black have aphrodisiacal properties the rarer black variety is more potent. Truffles have been collected for nearly 4000 years and have enchanted us as an aphrodisiac.

Saffron is derived from the flower of crocus sativus and commonly used in cooking as a seasoning and coloring agent. Croci (plural of crocus) are one of numerous low-growing plants of the genus Crocus that have slender grass-like leaves and white or yellow or purple flowers. Crocin is a natural carotenoid chemical that is found in flowers of crocus. Recent studies provide evidence that crocin has properties of an aphrodisiac. Pilot tests have also established its efficacy as an aphrodisiac. An aphrodisiac is any substance that is used for improving sexual desire. In as far as natural substances are concerned Western science attributes these aphrodisiacal properties to the placebo effect, which is that the effect is only due to the belief of the user. That is not strange because modern medical does not belief in anecdotal evidence, howsoever strong it may be.

Most of us know it as a spice used to color rice. In Eastern cultures it is widely used for mixing in milk and in deserts for its flavor and aphrodisiacal properties. Previous studies too demonstrated that it could increase sex drive but the substance responsible for it was not established. Now it is accepted that it is the crocin in crocus works as an aphrodisiac. Basically, crocin is a catenoid pigment also found in carrots and tomatoes and other plants. Lycopene is a cartenoid that makes tomatoes red and widely used in treatment of prostate problems like benign prostatic hyperplasia. Some other studies have also considered the role of crocus flower in treatment of depression.

Spice saffron is native chiefly to the Mediterranean region but widely cultivated in other parts of the world as well. Apart from the Mediterranean, it is also widely grown in Kashmir, India. It is not recommended for pregnant women or those who are already taking antidepressants for treatment of psychological problems including anxiety, panic attacks and depression.

A typical saffron recipe requires only two or three strands to give flavor and color to rice. If you are more indulgent you may use more. However, infusion and decoction are the main prevalent preparations. For tea a small quantity, as little as 1gm, is needed. Although tinctures are more popular, it is also used in powder form.

The culinary value of saffron recipes was never in doubt. The foods cooked with it are compatible with the internal body systems and is well received. It also helps in the digestive process. It has a positive effect on the central nervous system and promotes a sense of wellness and lightens mood, which has an effect on the genitals.

Natural aphrodisiacs, howsoever, disputed they may be, are harmless since they are herbal based. Even if their efficacy in enhancing sex drive is not accepted, they have a numerous other benefits as well. They boost your immune system and increase the body’s capacity to fight disease. Consumed in balanced quantity, saffron calms and pacifies and provides physical and psychological comfort.

Recently dark chocolate is being pushed for its antioxidant properties. Chocolate is basically a product made from numerous raw and processed foods. The primary ingredient is the seed of the tropical cocoa tree. While white chocolate is a mixture of milk, cocoa butter and milk solids and does not contain cocoa solids, dark color chocolates are primarily made from milk and cocoa solids. The seeds of cocoa tree have an intensely bitter taste and usually fermented to bring out its flavor and sweetened for consumption. While the gift of chocolates is considered to be a romantic ritual, chocolate is also identified as an aphrodisiac. Most of its aphrodisiacal qualities are linked to the simple pleasure that it gives on consumption. The ancient Mayans made ‘bitter water’ from cocoa seeds and used it for enhancing capability of copulation and procreation. However, whether or not it is actually an aphrodisiac is an ongoing debate. The love qualities of chocolate may be simply due to our belief that it is a potently virile food. It tastes good and melts in the mouth because its melting temperature is just below body temperature. The melting sensation on its own is stimulating. That however does not explain it as an aphrodisiac.

Although chocolates are made from a mixture of number of things, primary dark chocolate ingredients include alkaloids that work as aphrodisiacs. These are theobromine and phenethylamine, which increase brain serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that induces feelings of pleasure and its level is known to increase for the first year of falling in love. Phenethylamine is related to amphetamines, which is a central nervous system stimulant that increases energy. It peaks when you are in love and surges into the brain at the time of an orgasm. Eaten in moderate quantities it can also lower blood pressure. Chocolate also increases testosterone levels in women. Cocoa is a powerful antioxidant that protects against damage from free radicals and oxidation. Independent studies also suggest that specially devised cocoa products including chocolates can work as cognitive enhancers and delay decline of brain function due to advanced age.

Dark chocolates come in a variety of flavors and contain a variety of substances besides the natural ingredients of cocoa seeds. Theobromine, the primary alkaloid has a mood elevating effect. Tryptophan, is an essential amino acid from which serotonin is formed.

Some dark chocolate benefits are also due to caffeine, which is present in small quantities. Its mild stimulating affect is however mostly due to theobromine. Since the maximum benefits are derived from cocoa, chocolates are also specially formulated for use as an aphrodisiac.

Regardless of the debate, chocolates are known to enhance the mood. Your personal experience is the best evidence. Settle down for a quiet evening with your partner with a box of dark chocolate and wine and see for yourself how it affects your mood.

Oysters have been known to be good at stimulating and creating sexual desire for many years. Sometimes one wonders whether it is something that has been passed on from one generation to another and does not really have any basis to it. There are many foods that have been branded as foods that can help in increasing sexual desire but little is known about the manner in which they work. It might interest you to know that these foods were initially claimed to increase performance and desire too for those who had performance anxiety. And since procreation was more important in ancient times, these foods were advertised as foods that can increase desire and performance. Whether the food that was touted as a stimulant was for real or not is not known for sure.

There is another interesting aspect of why raw oysters were considered or chosen as a food that increases sexual desire. Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and sensuality is known to be born from the sea. You will also see that there are other kinds of sea foods like shell fish, crabs and more that also have a reputation of being good for sexual desires. Some also believe that these sea creatures are known for increasing sexual desires because of the fact that they are shaped like the female genitalia. Banana, carrot, asparagus, ginseng and rhinoceros horn are also known to have these properties due to their shape. Another theory is that since zinc was deficient in the ancient diet, these foods were pushed into the diet as stimulants.

While fresh oysters may be extremely tasty, the Food and Drug Administration does not accept the effect as scientific in nature. It is claimed that the claims are mere mythological in nature and have been passed from one generation to another. Despite lack of scientific evidence there is no harm in consuming this delicious and nutritive food.

To make the most of it, add some other stimulant herbs like celery, thyme or coriander to the oysters recipe that you may be trying out. If you want to make a curry out of it, then you can go the Indian route and choose to add garlic and mustard.

There may be a fair amount of debate with regard to whether aphrodisiacs work or not. However, rather than splitting hairs about whether shell fish work or rhinocerous horn or fragrances like vanilla, it may be a better idea to just be aware of the foods that help so that you can try them.

Trying foods out for a little while and then deciding is not likely to cause any harm since these are natural ingredients. It is just a matter of whether you want to use basil in your recipe or whether you will be conscious and use thyme for a while to see if oysters and thyme work well.

Aphrodisiac foods have been known to exist since prehistoric times. But there is still a debate sometimes that erupts about whether these really work and if they do, then the manner in which they work on the brain or the body. Some foods that are known to increase sexual desires are extremely well known. Chocolates, oysters, bananas, avocados and more are some of the names that you may have heard yourself. It is interesting to understand the manner in which each of these stimulants works. Chocolates provide a soft and smooth mouthfeel and with the added sugar, caffeine, theobromine and tryptophan the delicious food acts as a stimulant. Tryptophan helps in creating serotonin; a hormone that induces a feeling of harmony and relieves pain. Oysters have been known to have stimulant properties due to the fact that they contain relatively high amounts of zinc. Zinc, as we all know, helps in increasing the sperm count too. Other foods that contain zinc are red meat, shell fish, cashews and almonds and chickpeas. Some dairy products are also known to contain zinc and cheese is recommended.

Some fruits and vegetables are also considered aphrodisiac food. These are considered to be so due to the shape that they have. Bananas, asparagus and carrots are considered to have stimulant properties too. One the other hand strawberries and some other berries are also considered to have these properties. While this may not be confirmed by any research that has been done, the fact of the matter is that a nutritious diet does add to energy levels and therefore is good for the entire system. There is a need to be aware of certain products that are touted as extremely effective but they may not necessarily be so. Spanish fly, so known for these stimulant properties, may actually be harmful for you. There is a risk that you could burn your throat or cause some permanent damage to your genitals or kidney. It has been banned in North America due to the risks associated with the same so as to prevent people from taking it.

While there are various food aphrodisiac products that exist, aphrodisiacs can also be found in the form of fragrances. Some fragrances like musk, vanilla and jasmine are known to create a sense of harmony and can make the person feel relaxed and ready to go.

Other aphrodisiacs food options that exist include garlic mustard and ginger. These are a significant part of the cuisine of India; the land of the Kamasutra. While garlic and ginger have a pungent smell they are yet known to increase desire.

Some natural herbs that you may be using in your own cooking may actually be good for stimulation. All you probably need to do is to increase the proportion a bit. Thyme, coriander, celery, oregano and Cayenne pepper are known to be good as aphrodisiac foods.

Women aphrodisiacs may or may not be different from those that are meant for men all the time. There are some that are common and others that are not. And then there are others that work better for one gender as compared to another. Women tend to feel a higher level of desire when they consume higher amounts of foods like celery, coriander, thyme, saffron, oregano and Cayenne pepper. The effect of increasing these foods in the diet cannot be felt immediately since it takes a fair number of days for the effects to show positively. There are other foods like ginger, garlic and mustard that are commonly used by women. Fragrances like jasmine, musk and vanilla also add to the sexual desire that women feel as do foods like carrots, bananas and asparagus.

Men aphrodisiacs that are natural include oysters, pine nuts, chocolate, arginine and avocado. Oysters are known to increase sperm count since they are rich in zinc; something that is crucial to sperm production. Pine nuts also work in a similar manner since they are also rich in zinc. Arginine is not a food but an amino acid that is found in foods like nuts, eggs, coconut milk and cheese. It helps in better circulation of blood and therefore increases the flow to the extremes. Any food that helps in releasing serotonin in the brain is also helpful. Chocolates are delicious and make you feel relaxed and full of desire. Avocados also are smooth and creamy and create a relaxed feeling that creates the need for sex.

If you are looking for an aphrodisiac men specific ones are the way to go. There is also another one that is known to help a lot. Yohimbine, an herb that is made from the bark of tree with the same name has been used widely in the African continent.

The aphrodisiacs that have been mentioned above are foods that increase sexual desire. They do not necessarily increase performance and therefore should not be confused with Viagra, a drug that is helpful in resolving erectile dysfunction. Natural foods that enhance the desire for sex can be taken without the recommendation of a doctor too.

On the other hand other drugs that are used to treat specific medical conditions like erectile dysfunction should not be used without proper consultation with the physician. Since these drugs have side effects that also need to be managed, care should be taken to use them judiciously and with care.

It is interesting to note that many foods that are considered to increase sexual desires are shaped like the human genitalia. This is something that has been known for years. Bananas, carrots and asparagus are considered to be good at increasing male and female desires equally making them men and women aphrodisiacs.

The topic of stimulant drugs for men is so common and it is a pity that sometimes the aphrodisiac women are neglected due to this overindulgence in male libido concerns. Even though the topic may be less discussed that male issues there are various natural products that are available to increase libido in females. It is also amusing and ironical that the term aphrodisiac is derived from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and sensuality. It is purported that foods that are shaped like the sexual organs tend to be aphrodisiacal in nature. While there are chemical compounds that can also be used to increase libido, these tend to be fraught with side effects and other issues that may surface later. Natural products, foods and herbs are recommended since they do not cause any harm. In fact most of these foods form a part of our natural diet too. If you face a situation here you feel that your libido is on the decline all that you need to do is to increase the proportion of these natural foods in your diet. Do not hope for things to change in a minute. The change can take a few weeks of concerted effort.

While there are aphrodisiacs that can be used by men and women both, aphrodisiacs for women particularly have also been studied. Celery, Cayenne pepper, coriander, saffron, thyme and oregano are some of the herbs that are used in daily cooking. These also act as good stimulants for women and increase the sexual desire to a significant extent. The idea is obviously not to load these spices in the food to the extent that it makes the food unpalatable but to start using slightly more so as the effect starts to take place. Some vegetables like asparagus, carrots and bananas are known to posses these properties. Some foods used in Indian cooking to a large extent also help in stimulating the sexual organs. Despite the peculiar smell ginger, garlic and mustard are known to possess these characteristics that help in stimulation.

An aphrodisiac for women may not particularly be different from those that are used for men. Some of the natural foods mentioned above are good for men too. However, there are some that work better for women as compared to men and are therefore recommended to women in particular.

One of the women aphrodisiacs that is most popular are figs. These are known to be extremely good when it comes to stimulating women from various regions. Fragrances like jasmine, musk and vanilla are also sometimes known to work better with women than men.

It is a good idea to understand your situation and then try and choose one. Sometimes you may have to go through a period of trial and error before you find one that works for you. If you are looking for aphrodisiac women specific products may be a better bet.