Throughout history, food has been linked to romance. Some erotic or aphrodisiac foods include chocolate, oysters and chili peppers. Others include arugula and saffron.

Before trying aphrodisiac foods, talk with your doctor. Sexual problems can be a sign of underlying medical issues that require treatment. Often, these issues can be solved with medication.

Watermelon

The luscious summer fruit is not only a great BBQ snack, but it may also help your libido. Rich in the plant nutrient citrulline, watermelon increases the body’s production of nitric oxide. This relaxes blood vessels, increasing circulation which in turn boosts arousal.

While many aphrodisiac claims have been dismissed as folklore, there is some truth to this sexy food. Studies have found that foods rich in nitric oxide increase blood flow and boost arousal, similar to the sexual enhancing drug Viagra. Nitric oxide can be found in arugula, red wine and watermelon.

Other foods like cinnamon, salmon, pomegranates and ginger have been known to increase feelings of romance, perhaps due to their suggestive colors or shapes. In the past, other more exotic aphrodisiacs such as Spanish fly, cobra blood and rhino horn have been consumed in hopes of arousal.

Blueberries

The anthocyanins in blueberries stain the skin of these little fruits, giving them a purple hue. These powerful antioxidants are said to increase blood flow and help you feel more energized. Plus, they are high in fiber and vitamin C.

Figs, which are shaped like Adam and Eve’s fruit of choice and symbolize fertility, have a long history as an aphrodisiac food. They are also packed with iron, potassium and vitamin C.

Chili peppers have an exotic reputation and are often used as aphrodisiac spices. They are believed to stimulate the release of endorphins and dopamine, two chemicals that boost energy, promote feelings of euphoria, and may even boost sexual desire.

Oysters are one of the most well-known culinary aphrodisiac foods, and there’s some research to back up their libido-boosting powers. Pop into your local oyster bar with a date to slurp down some slippery mollusks, then pair them with a glass of bubbly.

Raspberries

Aside from their sexy shape that is said to resemble a woman’s nipple, raspberries deserve a spot on the erotic foods list because they are packed with antioxidants that can help boost circulation and blood flow. Plus, they are a rich source of vitamin C.

Chocolate contains aphrodisiac properties because it is known to trigger the brain chemicals that are necessary for sexual stimulation. It is also a great source of magnesium which has been shown to increase libido in women. Enjoy this libido-boosting food in moderation, and go for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids.

Figs have long been considered aphrodisiacs. They are sweet and purple, reminiscent of a woman’s seductive lips and are often used as a symbol for fertility. Figs are known to stimulate hormone production and secretion as well as help regulate menstrual cycles. Make a romantic dessert out of these luscious fruits by making this pistachio rose madeleine recipe.

Scallops

Seafood has been viewed as aphrodisiac food since ancient times. This is perhaps most evident in the legend of the Greek goddess Aphrodite. Her birth emerged from the sea on an oyster shell, fueling the centuries-long connection between seafood and love.

Oysters, clams and scallops have long been regarded as aphrodisiac foods due to their delicate flavor and suggestive shape. They are also a rich source of zinc and iron.

Aphrodisiacs are said to promote libido in both men and women. Other aphrodisiac foods include pomegranates, asparagus and figs. These foods contain phytochemicals that trigger mood-altering neurotransmitters, including serotonin and phenylethylamine (PEA), which boosts arousal.

Garlic is another natural aphrodisiac food. It contains a chemical called allicin that has been shown to boost blood flow and increase sexual desire. It has also been found to be a powerful antioxidant, which may help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Shrimp

For the sea-food lover, shrimp may be the ultimate aphrodisiac food. From the legendary Italian lover Casanova to the Egyptian demi-goddess Cleopatra, seafood has long been associated with romance and passion. According to a study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility, raw oysters are high in zinc (which helps boost testosterone) and selenium (which is a natural aphrodisiac). Shrimp also contain stress-reducing amino acids and the feel-good hormone serotonin. They are often a key ingredient in dishes such as shrimp gumbo, and they pair well with red wine which is also an aphrodisiac food.

But if you’re not quite ready to head to your local oyster bar, there are tons of less exotic foods that have been rumored to have aphrodisiac properties that you probably already eat on a daily basis. From leafy greens to fruits with high water content, find out which everyday foods are aphrodisiacs below.

Strawberries

For those planning a romantic picnic for two this spring and summer, we suggest packing some aphrodisiac foods in your basket. While oysters are undoubtedly one of the most well-known aphrodisiac ingredients, there are many other less exotic foods rumored to have libido boosting properties that you can easily find at your local grocery store.

Some aphrodisiac foods gain their reputation partly for their appearance – think asparagus, figs and artichokes – or because of their suggestive names (like baboon milk, Spanish fly and rhino horn). Others have been shown to be actually effective at boosting libido, including pumpkin seeds (which contain zinc), strawberries (which raise levels of serotonin), chocolate and chilli.

Even your morning cup of coffee can help – it’s known to boost energy, raise mood and increase orgasms. And if you’re feeling extra sexy, we recommend finishing off your picnic with some strawberry shortcake topped with whipped cream.