Foods that make you horny, named after Aphrodite the Greek goddess of love: aphrodisiac foods. While it’s tempting to believe that biting into something sticky and delicious can instantly increase your libido, is this really true?

The answer is not particularly simple and lies in a somewhat gray area. The energy in a particular food, its cultural heritage and connotations, and the smell, texture, shape and color of a dish can all contribute to arousal (remember, your largest sexual organ is between your ears!).

The bottom line is that experts recommend incorporating aphrodisiac foods into a diet that supports healthy blood circulation, hormone balance, and vitality, all of which naturally contribute to a higher libido.

You'd be amazed at the variety of natural foods available to boost your sex drive, from leafy greens to high-water fruits.

While you’ve probably heard that oysters are aphrodisiacs, there are many other, less exotic foods (that you undoubtedly consume regularly) that also have aphrodisiac properties. For some, it’s all about the chemical interactions that occur in the body. For others, it’s more of a placebo effect. Either way, it’s essential to keep in mind that not everyone will respond to aphrodisiac foods in the same way.

And while there's no concrete scientific evidence that dieting stimulates the human reproductive organs, it certainly can't hurt to stack the sexual odds in your favor by eating meals that both you and your lover find hot AF.

Don't feel like trying all this food, or have you tried it and want something that will definitely work? Then take a look here for aphrodisiacs !

The 5 Types of Aphrodisiacs

Historically, most aphrodisiacs have been classified into five broad categories, all based on unverified theories:

Keeping you warm and wet

Foods that generate heat and moisture (such as chili or curry) were thought to arouse "heated" passion, while cool foods (such as lettuce and purslane leaves) were thought to arouse "chilled" desire.

If it looks like a genital, it's probably great for genitals

Foods that resembled male or female genitals were believed to increase desire. An example of this is the legendary oyster, as well as various fruits and root vegetables.

The Remarkable Reproduction Hypothesis

Sexual desire and potency were stimulated by the consumption of reproductive organs and eggs (eggs of fish and birds, genitals of animals).

Exotic = Sexy

Rare (and therefore expensive) foods were believed to be sexually arousing. As various rare items became more readily available, such as potatoes and cocoa, their reputation as sexual stimulants diminished.

Awaken the senses and awaken desire

Food that pleasurably stimulated the senses (sight, smell, taste and touch) was considered to arouse desire.

Our Top 10 Aphrodisiac Foods

Eat a varied diet, including some of the foods below, and you might just be in the mood for some extra love !

1. Truffles

There are several reasons why truffles are one of the most well-known aphrodisiacs. They are unusual and expensive, which only adds to their allure.

Additionally, they contain a high protein content, which aids in stamina. However, and perhaps most intriguingly, their scent is thought to reflect male pheromones, making people subconsciously want to devour them.

2. Ginger

Aside from its fantastic smell, ginger can help improve blood flow and circulation (two of the most common causes of erectile dysfunction) and is used in many cultures as a desire stimulant.

3. Sweet potatoes

You probably know about the sex-enhancing properties of sweet potatoes (also known as "yams") from Sex and the City 2. Samantha ate them in an attempt to get a "natural" dose of hormones during a time when she was unable to take her menopause tablets. Vitamin A, which is found in the root vegetable, plays a role in testosterone production and arousal.

4. Maca

According to Jenni Skyler, a certified sex therapist, sexologist, and licensed marriage and family therapist, Maca (the Incan root that is made into a popular tea) is also known as Peru’s “natural Viagra.” It’s believed to boost energy, stamina, fertility, and libido.

The roots of the plant are rich in magnesium and fiber, good for endurance and general well-being.

5. Arugula

Arugula is one of the world's oldest aphrodisiacs, and the dark leafy greens are essential for sexual well-being. According to research from Al-Nahrain University, arugula can help block environmental pollutants that can affect our libido.

6. Honey

TBT goes back to ancient Greece, when Hippocrates prescribed honey for sexual stamina. This “liquid gold” contains boron, which helps regulate hormones, and nitric oxide (which helps increase blood flow during arousal).

Nitric oxide also promotes dilation of blood vessels involved in erections and clitoral engorgement.

7. Pine nuts

If a man is lacking in zinc, pine nuts can help increase his libido. In addition, pine nuts contain a range of other beneficial oils and phytochemicals that support overall health and increase libido.

8. Ginseng

Studies have shown that Asian and American versions of the Ginseng plant improve libido and sexual performance. Ginseng definitely affects the central nervous system, altering hormones.

9. Extra virgin olive oil

While the thought of dipping fresh bread or pita bread in olive oil is enough to turn anyone on, there are legitimate reasons for the oil’s allure. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, which help keep skin smooth and the body functioning smoothly. But this isn’t new knowledge! In fact, olive oil has been used for erotic massage since ancient Egyptian times.

10. Chocolate

This one is something most of the ladies at Pure Lust are very happy with! Chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a stimulant that creates feelings of arousal and well-being. Natural caffeine is also beneficial. Make sure you get dark chocolate with at least 75% cacao to reap the heart benefits.

That was our top 10, but there are many more foods that can boost your libido. Want to know more? Let us know and we'll post a part 2!