Spice up your sex life - naturally

Researchers at the University of Guelph recently reviewed hundreds of studies on natural aphrodisiacs to determine which work—physically and psychologically. Many of the aphrodisiacs studied have been used for thousands of years by people around the world, but how they work—and whether they work—has remained a mystery.

Popular drugs for erectile dysfunction come with a list of side effects that include headache, muscle pain, and blurred vision. These drugs may enhance performance, but they don’t increase libido.

Check your kitchen cupboards. They may contain the ingredients you need to create some sizzle in the bedroom.

Herbs and spices may provide safe alternative natural performance boosters and libido lifters. Panax ginseng and saffron may improve sexual function.

Researchers found an increase in sexual desire may occur after eating maca root, an Andean mustard plant; and muira puama, a Brazilian flowering plant.

Despite chocolate’s reputation as a dark, delicious aphrodisiac, sadly, studies do not link it to either sexual arousal or satisfaction.

Spices that increase sexual behaviour in animal studies include ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and garlic. But before you raid your spice rack, wait for up-and-coming research that will gauge their effects on the human libido.

Learn more about natural aphrodisiacs in the article "Lusty Substances."