Almost since man began to eat, certain foods have been linked to an increased sex drive. Which foods and why?
People have to eat. Even if they don't want to, don't feel like it, etc, eating is essential to health and life. But to truly enjoy life--well, then what better than love?
However, daily stress (whether a caveman hunting for dinner before you're dinner, or a computer analyst trying to keep the company's systems humming) can take the edge of desire. You know you'd feel better if you engaged in a little loving, but it's difficult to tap into desire. And so, the elegant solution of eating (which you have to anyway) to inspire love (which you want).
A caveat--the FDA does not recognize any aphrodisiac, other than Viagra. But there are thousands of years of anecdotal evidence. And it can hardly hurt--at least you'll have a tasty meal.
The most famous aphrodisiac appetizer would be the oyster--the shape and taste will whet your appetite for things to come.
The best cuisines for combining aphrodisiacs are Italian, Mexican, French, Indian, and Chinese (no particular order). Garlic, onion, thyme, and rosemary all make appearances on aphrodisiac lists--and all appear in good spaghetti sauce. Pine nuts, a frequent ingredient to pesto sauce, is often named as an inspiration to love as well.
Truffles and saffron are also said to increase desire--perhaps because if someone feeds you such expensive fare, you can reasonably assured not only of their fondness for you, but the thickness of their wallet (although this is more appropriate to lust than love).
Spices such as cardomom, cloves, ginger, fennel and nutmeg, often used in Indian cuisine, are also said to aid in the act of love. The warming qualities may be the reason why--they leave you feeling rosy. (Note too that cloves and nutmeg often make appearances in more Western cuisine around Christmastime, adding spicy warmth to cakes and cider.)
Desserts with vanilla or mint might help put a twinkle in your sweetie's eye. Failing that, a nightcap (moderately indulged in) can least break down inhibitions, making the night ahead more appealing to all.
