Page 8 - Seniorstoday May 2024 Issue
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not advisable to try anything without and history. In 19th century France,
scrupulously researching it first, although bridegrooms were served three courses of
it may be difficult to find authentic and asparagus at their prenuptial dinner. The
accurate information because of a lack Aztecs referred to the avocado tree as the
of scientific evidence on the efficacy and “testicle tree” and in Spain, Catholic priests
safety of certain substances in human forbade its consumption. Cleopatra, known
beings. for her beauty and amorous exploits,
is believed to have used aphrodisiacs
like cardamom, figs, aromatherapy and
pearls to enhance her sexual prowess.
Most of the aphrodisiac claims are based
predominantly on cultural myths than
fact. Their fascination continues to this
day, as people still experiment with them
to boost their sex lives. Most of the existing
evidence is very subjective and anecdotal.
In India, musk has long been held as a
stimulating agent. In Ayurveda, shilajit,
the sap of minerals derived from the
Non-prescription drugs, vitamins, asphalt rock formations in the Himalayas
plants, herbs and supplements that claim is claimed to work like an aphrodisiac.
to enhance sexual function or alleviate Milk with a hint of saffron is given even
erectile problems are mostly found to be today on the wedding night to supposedly
ineffective. Some of the popular foods that set the libido on fire.
people have consumed as aphrodisiacs There are other more prized and
are oysters, bananas, asparagus, carrots, deadly aphrodisiacs. For instance,
avocados, etc. People have traditionally APHRODISIACS 197 the rhinoceros
endowed them with aphrodisiacal horns that bears a phallic symbol, is
properties probably because of their used in many cultures to perk up sexual
resemblance to sexual organs. Garlic is performance. Zebra tongue and tiger penis
another widely accepted stimulant. So are is believed to boost your machismo.
nutmeg and almond. According to stories, The most famous and potent aphrodisiac
application of almond paste awakens of all is considered to be the Spanish Fly, a
passion in a female, just as the scent and powder made of ground-up beetle. When
flavour of vanilla is said to increase lust. consumed, the Spanish Fly is supposed
Chocolate is universally appreciated as an to create an inimitable state of euphoria.
aphrodisiac. The two chemicals present in This beetle is found in some parts of
chocolate which are being closely studied Europe. Spanish Fly makes the blood
are serotonin and phenylethylamine. They vessels around a woman’s genitals dilate
are believed to create feelings of ecstasy and throb, giving her the false sensation
and unbridled bliss. of sexual arousal. If a woman takes it
Plenty of references have been made internally, it causes inflammation and
to aphrodisiacs in ancient literature irritation of the urinary tract, which could
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