| Aphrodisiacs |
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Every February the thought of aphrodisiacs is likely to occur. The link between specific foods and aphrodisiac properties isn’t as direct and simple as it appears especially as there’s lack of proper scientific proof. What we do know is that there may be indirect effects. Let’s cover chocolate! The Greek name theobroma (used to name the cocoa tree) means ‘food of the gods’.  Did you know that the flowers of the cocoa tree grow on its trunk and branches? The pods hang from the trunk and branches and within the pod are the cocoa beans. The husk is removed and then the nib (the bean without the husk) is ground to form cocoa butter and cocoa powder (the latter is liquid but made be compression to powder). Dark chocolate may have a little more sugar than milk chocolate sometimes. Dark chocolate has far more of the cocoa solids, while milk chocolate has less but also has a great content of milk solids. The tropical cocoa tree’s history stems right back to the Aztecs of South America. The properties of chocolate are quite large. It has caffeine which gives one a boost by stimulating the adrenal glands. There are other chemical effects that are reputed to impart the eater with the feeling of well being. Cocoa powder is a fairly good source of magnesium, a valuable essential mineral to ward off ill health. Its sugar content (raises the blood sugar) combined with its other minor contents (that have neurological effects) may account for the ‘pleasure effect’. If one dislikes chocolate, don’t push it on your loved one! What works for one doesn’t mean it works for everyone! Oysters are often seen as having aphrodisiac properties.  It may just be that their high zinc content supports reproductive functions. It’s been shown that successful reproduction in males and females require good zinc levels. Capsaicin (in peppers) and ginger improve circulation, which may enhance libido. Oats encourage testosterone release in males which aids libido. If you and your partner like nutmeg, which is said to have aphrodisiac effects, make a romantic dinner with nutmeg. As long as everyone is happy then try, there’s lots to test amongst foods and herbs claimed to be aphrodisiacs. Increased well-being through better nutrition naturally promotes reproductive function and ability. Just the idea that a food is an aphrodisiac can put one in the mood for love, which could be lined against the placebo effect. On Valentine’s Day buy your lover whatever he or she fancies. Just the sheer delight in consumption of favourite foods can put anyone in a good mood. The mood’s what counts so be romantic, with whatever inspires romance. Anastacia Sampson D.N. Med |