“Your sex life is what you eat!” There might be some truth to this claim. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve most likely heard that aphrodisiacs can spark romance in your love life. But did you know there are delicious eco-friendly alternatives to savour? It’s time to trade in that regular chocolate for something gorgeously green and good for you.
Here are some organic aphrodisiacs or ‘organodisiacs’ to add to your next romantic meal.
If tomatoes be the food of love…
Tomatoes are often hailed as the food of love. Although it’s not known how much validity is in that claim, what is worth knowing is that tomatoes are said to have a calming effect on people. Feeling relaxed before sex is always a great thing because you want to de-stress and unwind after a busy day so that you can enjoy romantic time together. For some delicious eco-friendly and sun dried tomatoes, check out Greenlove.
Sowing the seeds of love
Pumpkin seeds stimulate libido, for both men and women. They contain high doses of zinc which is an important ingredient in the body’s production of testosterone. Pumpkin seeds also contain tyrosine, an amino acid that raises your mood. The endorphin kick is great for an increased energy boost before things head to the bedroom.
Shaped like a heart
Not only are strawberries aesthetically pleasing with their bright colour, but they’ve become a staple in romantic scenes. Just think of how amorous the idea of strawberries and whipped cream is, for instance. And there can be truth to that claim since strawberries also contain zinc that helps with testosterone production.
Organic strawberries are the way to go, though. A recent study by Food Chemistry, publisher of original research that deals with chemistry and biochemistry of foods and raw materials, found that organic strawberries contain more disease-fighting antioxidants than ones that are conventionally grown. This is because the removal of pesticides from the fruit-growing process results in the berries enhancing their own natural antioxidants. No wonder we feel the love!
Vitamin B for Bananas
Not only are bananas sexually suggestive because of their shape, but they also contain a lot of potassium and vitamin B, which the body needs in order to produce sexual hormones. Vitamin B converts carbohydrates into energy that helps to boost sex hormone production. Pop a sliced banana in your man’s yoghurt or cereal in the morning before he heads to work.
Choco-licious
What would an article about organic aphrodisiacs be if it did not include chocolate? Organic chocolate ingredients have been farmed in eco-friendly ways – all pesticides are removed from the production process (unlike in ordinary chocolate production that makes use of pesticides to ensure good coco crops). Also, small areas of land are used to fertilise organic chocolate, thus not wasting the world’s resources. Organic chocolate has a smooth taste, so it’s not only better for the environment but also delicious! Remember that chocolate contains feel-good elements similar to that blissful runner’s high that are released on consumption. So it’s a great way to boost your mind and body before a romantic evening. Honest chocolate is a delicious local offering, available at many outlets all around the country. For a comprehensive listing of where to get your hands on some, click here.
Nutty love
Almonds have many health benefits, from helping with weight-loss to improving your skin. But their Vitamin E is also regarded as a libido booster. In fact, they’re an effective food to promote sex drive, especially in women. Almonds have been touted as a fertility food since ancient times and apparently even their aroma can fire up amorous feelings, so be sure to sniff your almond salad during dinner.
Visit organic food markets such as the ones listed below to purchase fresh and healthy organic aphrodisiacs:
- Bryanston Organic Market in Johannesburg
- Slow Market in Cape Town
- Shongweni Farmer’s Market in Kwazulu-Natal
- Woolworths and Pick ‘n Pay both offer a selection of organic goods
