Aphrodisiacs have been used by every culture from the ancient Persians to the Aztecs to boost sexual desire. But do these supposed love potions really work? Scientific evidence suggests it’s the placebo effect that accounts for most of the libido-lifting powers of your typical aphrodisiac, but some of these foods, drinks, herbs, spices and scents may actually contribute to physical arousal in a variety of ways. Read on for the lowdown on five popular sex enhancers.
Do They Work? 5 Popular Aphrodisiacs
Scientific evidence for the aphrodisiac qualities of nutmeg is lacking, but the spice has been used as a mild painkiller and to stimulate the circulatory system and increase blood flow — which surely can't hurt your sex drive. Also, a study found that ingesting nutmeg increased mating behaviors in mice, but, sadly, there's no evidence that the same effect applies to humans. One thing we suggest you avoid doing, however, is sniffing nutmeg to get high. It's true that nutmeg is psychoactive, but as Healthland's Maia Szalavitz wrote in December: "like the alleged 'high' kids get from sniffing glue or paint, the psychedelic nutmeg experience — which requires doses far larger than one would ever encounter in gingerbread — is excessively unpleasant." Not a romantic way to spend your Valentine's Day. Next: Oysters and Other Luscious-Looking Foods More on Time.com: 5 Little Known Truths About American Sex Lives
