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Lacking a little oomph in the bedroom? These foods have been scientifically proven to put the “mo” back in your “jo.” Try to include the following in your Valentine’s Day menu!
Watermelon
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Although it is 92% water (hence its name), the remaining 8% of this delicious melon is packed with important nutrients for sexual health. Watermelon contains a phytonutrient called citrulline, which is converted to arginine, an amino acid that helps relax blood vessels in the same way Viagra does and may even increase libido, according to a study done at the Texas A&M Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Center. To keep those nutrients intact, store unsliced watermelons at room temperature; refrigerate once it is cut. Arginine can also be found in red meat, nuts, spinach, lentils, whole grain, soy, seafood and eggs.
Cloves
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Since ancient times, unani medicine, an ancient form of healing practiced by many Muslims, has used cloves to treat male sexual disorders. A study done at Aligarh Muslim University, India, found that there is something to it. Male rats who were given clove extracts produced “a significant and sustained increase in the sexual activity” without any noticeable side effects.
Ginseng
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Ginseng has long been touted as having all sorts of health-giving properties. Studies have shown that improves male erections. Now here’s one for the ladies: A Korean study has found that Korean red ginseng helped menopausal women who reported trouble reaching orgasm. The problem with red ginseng is the taste. While some compare the taste to cinnamon and ginger, others think the term “dirt” is more applicable. If you are in the later group, try ginseng tea, which you can fix up with honey or milk.
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Kava and chamomile
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The roots from this plant from the South Pacific islands have been used to promote relaxation. A research team from the University of Melbourne, Australia, recently verified that it does indeed reduce anxiety. An additional finding in the study was that the decrease in anxiety increased women's sex drive compared to those in the placebo group. Kava is not something you’d find easily to cook, however. Your best bet is to go to a natural foods store and buy Kava capsules or extract. Follow directions for dosage. A recent University of Pennsylvania study also found that chamomile can have a modest effect on anxiety.
Fenugreek
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Often used in curry, this herb from the Near East is often described as tasting like a cross between celery and maple. And an Australian study has shown that when men took extract capsules twice a day for six weeks, it increased their libido by 25%. The researchers aren’t sure why this happens but the theory is that fenugreek contains certain compounds that increase sex hormones. Warning: Ask your doctor before trying this. In some cases, fenugreek aggravated asthma symptoms or affected glucose levels in diabetics.
Stay away from alcohol
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Men, take heed William Shakespeare when he wrote that alcohol “provokes the desire but it takes away the performance.” More than 400 years later, a University of Washington study confirms that alcohol in excess makes your little Willie a little recalcitrant to come out and play. It also can increase anxiety in both men and women. Women, stick to one drink a day; men, keep it to two.
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Avoid marijuana
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As the drive to legalize marijuana increases, you might want to think about this: A Canadian study found new evidence that suggests that smoking cannabis may have an even greater negative effect on male sexual health than previously thought. The study shows that marijuana negatively affects penile receptors necessary for erections.
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