Named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and passion, these substances are meant to specifically stimulate the libido and represent the Holy Grail for people who in some way feel unfulfilled.
At one time, it was widely believed that a substance, be it of animal or plant origin, would serve as an aphrodisiac if its shape resembled the human body, or part of the body. The rhinoceros horn, probably because of its phallic appearance, is still revered in parts of the world as a "magic" stimulant, but chemical analysis reveals that it is made of keratin, the same protein that makes up hair and fingernails. Consuming rhinoceros horn has about the same effect on the sex drive as chewing on one鈥檚 fingernails. Unfortunately, the rhinoceros has been hunted almost out of existence on account of the nonsensical belief in its aphrodisiac effects.
The roots of the ginseng plant often have a human-like appearance which probably hatched the herb鈥檚 popularity as a sexual aid. There is limited evidence from a few double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of an effect on erectile dysfunction by triggering the release of the neurotransmitter nitric oxide. This is the same mechanism by which Viagra functions. Even if this is further substantiated, neither ginseng, or indeed Viagra, can be classified as aphrodisiacs. While they may provide some 鈥渕echanical鈥� assistance, they do not increase the libido, which is controlled by a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors.
The orchid has long been a symbol of love and admiration, perhaps because its roots conjure up an image of the male testicles. Similarly, the rare and unusual-looking dog stinkhorn fungus (Phallus impudicus) has a purported stimulating effect on the male organ which it resembles. No such activity, aside from a possible placebo effect, has actually been observed.
Just about every food that has ever been consumed, ranging from bird's nest soup to licorice, has at some time been associated with aphrodisiac properties. Tomatoes were once called "love apples" and were believed to be the real forbidden fruit of Eden. Avocados (the Aztecs actually used the word "ahucatl" meaning testicle to identify this fruit), onions, garlic, eels, honey, eggs, mushrooms, bananas and even spinach have been reputed to be aphrodisiacs. Eels and bananas are obviously phallic. and oysters vaguely resemble the female genitalia. Asparagus, again phallic, has also been widely used as a sexual stimulant. All it will do is taint some people鈥檚 urine with a characteristic smell.
Alcoholic beverages have probably been the most widely used "aphrodisiacs." Consumption may lead to some lowering of inhibitions, but one should always remember that famous couplet from Macbeth about how alcohol "provoketh the desire but taketh away the performance." The mandrake root was much sought after for its supposed powers even in biblical times. Indeed, Rachel wanted some of this stuff so badly that she allowed Leah, her sister, to sleep with her husband in exchange for some of the root.
Perhaps the most celebrated aphrodisiac is 鈥淪panish Fly,鈥� derived from cantharide beetles, supposedly favoured by Casanova. The beetles produce cantharidin, a potentially dangerous compound that can lead to inflammation of the urogenital tract and in large enough doses to kidney failure. However, there is no need to worry about 鈥淪panish Fly Candies鈥� sold on the Internet. All you will receive are ordinary candies with a wrapper bearing the words 鈥淪panish Fly.鈥� Any effect is due to the imagination.
Finally, the Aztec emperor Montezuma was said to have indulged in chocolate to bolster his virility before visiting his harem and at one time chocolate was thought to be so provocative of immorality that the Church in Spain forbid its consumption by monks and nuns. The supposed effect has been ascribed to phenylethylamine in chocolate, but there is zero evidence that this has an aphrodisiac effect. In any case, there is far more phenylethylamine in sauerkraut than in chocolate. But it isn鈥檛 very romantic to show up on your loved one鈥檚 doorstep with a jar of fermented cabbage. Stick to chocolate. Happy 痴补濒别苍迟颈苍别鈥檚 Day!
