Are Aphrodisiacs Real?

In this episode, we're breaking down research behind aphrodisiacs, which are natural substances that supposedly help with sexual desire and/or performance!

In our conversation, we break down the origin of the word aphrodisiacs and its reference to Greek mythology. We also mention evidence about “mainstream” aphrodisiacs including chocolate, alcohol, and marijuana. But to our surprise, a lot of the evidence and research led towards food alternatives and their effects on inflammation and blood flow, rather than sexual desire directly. (Don't worry, chocolate and red wine may still have their benefits! 😉)

Examples of these are foods high in L-arginine, which increases blood flow, quercetin which is an anti-inflammatory and also increases blood flow, and lastly omega 3 fatty acids, which also increase blood flow. You’ll even hear about creams that have incorporated these ingredients to help with sexual arousal that often include L-arginine which focuses on the "nitric oxide pathway"—the same pathway that Viagra focuses on for men’s sexual health!

We hope you find this episode interesting, along with our takeaway that this is all ultimately about fueling our body well. The healthier fuel we're putting in our body, the more likely we are to feel "in the mood" and to report more pleasurable sexual experiences.

We can't wait to hear your thoughts!