As the Grease song goes, “Summer Lovin’" can “happen so fast" with natural aphrodisiacs found in the produce and supplement aisles. If shoppers are weary of pharmaceuticals to help boost their bedroom fun, offer them one of these alternatives.
An article by Alie Ward on the Brand X Daily, owned by the Los Angeles Times, offered five ways to get in the mood, starting with oysters.
It’s true oysters have been enjoyed for centuries as a love-making fuel, but the article noted scientists are starting to prove its ability is not mere folklore. Oysters have a high level of zinc and amino acids, which may increase testosterone and other sex hormones. The way they look may also increase libido, according to the article. They resemble sex organs in both look and texture. Additionally, the high cost of this expensive seafood may also be a turn on for the lover getting a free meal.
Horny goat weed, found in Chinatown's natural pharmacies, may also be known by yin yang huo or its botanical name, epimedium. The article stated research has shown it contains a compound called icariin that inhibits the same enzymes that Viagra does, and causes the same end effects as the male-enhancement drug.
Yohimbe is often in the list of ingredients in male vitality vitamins, the article said. It is an alkaloid from the bark of an African tree that has been shown to boost circulation. Better circulation leads to more blood getting to aroused organs, which is why it is known for boosting love-making. The article additionally noted that when lovers experience energy boosts around each other, even anxiety, they report they have better chemistry. However, too much yohimbine can cause mania and sweating, so caution is warranted.
While dried and shaved animal horn may not sound too sexy, deer antler has been touted as a natural remedy for cancer, arthritis, menstrual cramps and low sexual desire. However, the article said no studies have proven its libido-enhancing effects, and one small study found it did not increase desire.
Booze’s ability to reduce inhibition puts it on this list, and the article said alcohol is the most common aphrodisiac. However, it noted too much can cause dehydration in women, erectile impairment in men, and inability to achieve orgasm for both.