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6 Min
11/02/2026
The promise is seductive: eat the right foods and ignite your libido. For centuries, humans have consumed everything from oysters to pomegranates in pursuit of sexual vitality. Despite their hush-hush nature, history has been partial to them, and they were even classified as a class substance and elaborately detailed. The aphrodisiac industry thrives on this hope, but what does science have to say about this?
The dinner table is set, and the candles flicker across plates of oysters on ice. A bottle of red wine chills beside a bowl of strawberries dipped in dark chocolate. The scene for a romantic dinner for two has been staged countless times, built on the ancient belief that certain foods can ignite desire and enhance sexual performance. From Cleopatra bathing in honey to Casanova downing dozens of oysters before his conquests, aphrodisiac foods have occupied a permanent place in human courtship rituals. But, strip away the marketing and the haze, do any of these foods actually work?
Chocolate has something called phenylethylamine, a naturally occurring compound that is associated with feelings of excitement and well-being. The Aztecs believed strongly in chocolate's aphrodisiac power. However, while studies have indicated that chocolate can improve mood, it's still debated exactly how this happens, and some studies suggest it's due to the taste more than the effect of the compounds. Moreso, it applies to dark chocolate, which contains quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can improve blood flow, but there is no scientific evidence to support the belief.
Capsaicin, the compound responsible for chilli's heat, is touted to produce physiological responses that resemble arousal. Eating chilli peppers causes a tingling sensation and is said to trigger the release of endorphins, the so-called ‘happiness hormones’, which create a feeling of euphoria and can positively influence mood and sexual desire. Capsaicin is known to increase blood flow, boost stamina, and stimulate nerve endings on the tongue – one of the most sensitive regions of the body. If this sounds intruiging you should try the Mexican hot chocolate for two, for a romantic dinner date or lunch.
Science offers a partial explanation – oysters are loaded with zinc, which has been associated with improving sexual potency in men, and recently, mussels, clams and oysters. Yet scientists have not determined whether there are enough of the libido-stimulating compounds in the shellfish to make any difference. While oysters contain zinc along with amino acids and serotonin that can increase pleasure responses, there is no proper data that points to improved sexual response or satisfaction.
The heart-shaped berry has long stood as a symbol for romance. Strawberries also contain zinc, like oysters, which plays a role in overall reproductive health for both sexes, helping regulate testosterone levels and prevent them from dipping too low. Strawberries are packed with Vitamin C, which is vital for blood flow to all regions of the body and essential for the production of sex hormones, releasing chemical neurotransmitters in the brain that increase libido. Though some claim strawberries can improve sexual performance thanks to their antioxidant properties, there is little scientific evidence to prove so.
The connection between honey and honeymoons isn’t accidental. Honey contains boron, a trace mineral used for building strong bones and improving muscle coordination, and some research shows that boron impacts the body's use of estrogen, testosterone, and vitamin D. However, there is only 7.2 mg of boron per kilogram of honey, and foods like prunes and raisins have more than three times the amount of boron. Thus, honey is not like viagra, though it contains zinc, boron, and antioxidants, which indirectly support the hormonal system and blood circulation.
Pomegranate shows more scientific promise than most alleged aphrodisiacs, as it is rich in polyphenols and nitrates, which are known to improve blood flow in the body. Some studies, although limited, show that the intake of pomegranate juice caused a significant increase in salivary testosterone levels in both men and women, with a slight increase after one to two weeks of consumption. Pomegranate juice showed significant elevation in testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone in animal studies.
Figs are loaded with innuendos; given how split-open fruits resemble the female flesh, it’s not surprising that they are on this list of aphrodisiacs. Studies show figs can increase sperm count and motility, and they are a great source of dietary fibre, vitamins, copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, and antioxidants. Figs are rich in amino acids, particularly arginine, which is known to improve blood circulation, and improved blood flow is essential for sexual arousal and function. However, they have yet to be adequately studied as an aphrodisiac in humans.
Red wine and date nights go hand-in-hand, with perhaps a side of dark chocolate fudge? Red wine contains resveratrol, a polyphenol with documented biological effects on the male reproductive system, suggesting a positive correlation between red wine consumption and testosterone serum levels. It is also said that the compounds in red wine enhance the levels of sexual desire for both men and women, with increased blood flow for women and a boost in testosterone levels for men.
The scientific consensus is clear: no food acts as a true aphrodisiac in the sense of directly and reliably increasing sexual desire or performance. What these foods offer instead are indirect benefits: better circulation, reduced inflammation, improved mood, and nutritional support for overall health. The real aphrodisiac is a healthy body, a relaxed mind, and a genuine connection with your partner.
