Saffron’s history as an aphrodisiac dates back to the Egyptian queen Cleopatra, who reportedly bathed in saffron milk for its aphrodisiac qualities. Recent studies have shown that saffron also helps increase sperm motility and can decrease some of the sexual side effects from taking certain antidepressants. A study by Dr Amirhossein Modabbernia, Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran, observed that a group of men who took 30 mg of saffron per day for 4 weeks experienced greater improvements in erectile function than men given a placebo. While another study by Dr Ladan Kashani, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran found that a group of women that regularly consumed saffron experienced higher levels of arousal than the group that didn’t.

Arugula

This peppery tasting leafy green might have gained mainstream popularity in recent years, but ancient Roman authors have been writing about its aphrodisiac qualities since the dawn of time—and science seems to agree. According to a study at Al-Nahrain University Baghdad, Iraq, in addition to boosting male fertility, arugula can help block out environmental contaminants that wreak havoc on our libidos.

Ginseng

It’s a well known fact that Ginseng is a natural alternative treatment for low sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. But recently, the popular herb has been gaining popularity in the west. According to research by Dr Elizabeth West, Department of ObGyn University of California, USA, ginseng—is commonly used to treat a variety of ailments in men and women, including low libido and sexual function. While another study by Dr Kyung-Jin Oh, Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Sexual Medicine Research Center, Korea, found that red ginseng may improve sexual arousal in menopausal women.

Commonly known as Methi, fenugreek has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac. According to a study by Dr S Sreeja, Cancer Endocrinology Laboratory, Rajiv Gandhi Center for Biotechnology, India, fenugreek appears to contain compounds that the body can use to make sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone. It is also known to boost sex drive in men experiencing low libido.

On Valentines Day, chocolates reign supreme—seriously, they are practically everywhere. But chocolate’s popularity extends way beyond the Hallmark aisle. According to research by Dr Astrid Nehlig, Faculty of Medicine, INSERM, Strasbourg, France, dark chocolate contains large amounts of antioxidant molecules, mainly flavonoids, most abundantly found in the form of a substance named epicatechin. These substances display several beneficial actions on the brain. And also help release dopamine—the feel-good chemical. Since low sex drive is often attributed to stress, consuming dark chocolate can significantly boost that by reducing stress level.

Rumored to be Cleopatra’s favorite fruit, the erotically shaped fig has been associated with sexuality in almost every culture. When it comes to their nutrition content, these fruits are filled with antioxidants, flavonoids, fibre and potassium, making them an ideal mood stabiliser. In her book, Healthy Sex Drive, Healthy You: What Your Libido Reveals About Your Life, Dr Diana Hoppe, MD, says that figs are also thought to be a sexual stimulant, as they’re high in amino acids, which boost sexual stamina and increase libido.