Perhaps one of the most important aspects of life for humans is sex and sexual relations; after all it is essential to the propagation of our species. This was of such importance to the ancient Ayurvedic system that a whole branch of medicine is devoted to its study. Referred to as ‘Vajikaran’ in Sanskrit, today we roughly translate it as ‘aphrodisiac’.
The term aphrodisiac comes from the Greek word ‘aphrodisios’ meaning ‘pertaining to Aphrodite’, the Greek goddess of sexuality and love. Throughout history many foods and drinks have gained reputation for making sex more attainable or pleasurable.
However, the Indian definition is actually slightly different from the western use of the word. In the West aphrodisiac means “to arouse sexual desire”. In Ayurveda, the same word means “that which strengthens the body by reinvigorating the sexual organs.” From the Ayurvedic point of view, increasing the strength of the sexual organs, using special plants and foods, also promotes the overall health of the body and emotional balance. The effects of this holistic approach lead to increased fertility for both sexes, increased enjoyment of lovemaking and healthy children.
For those not so interested in enhancing their love life, they should know that Vajikaran herbs and foods will have a positive effect on overall health too, reportedly leading to feeling radiant with a youthful glow. ‘Shukra dhatu’, meaning the reproductive organs, have dual functions, not only producing the sperm and ovum but also the ‘Ojas’, the finest product of digestion.
Ojas create vigour, bliss, lightness, stamina, immunity, luster in the skin, sparkle in the eyes and clarity of mind. They are vital to the health and happiness of every being. So if you are searching for mental clarity, immunity and spiritual wellbeing you will find the value in enhancing your Shukra dhatu and thus your Ojas.
Some aphrodisiac foods function through analogy because they remind us of something erotic, like the vulva-shaped oyster or the phallic like asparagus. In Sanskrit Ayurvedic herbs are named after their alleged properties. Take two of the Vajikaran herbs – Ashwagandha translates as ‘Scent of a horse (implying ‘horse power/virility’)’ and Shatavari, which means ‘She who possesses a hundred husbands – (meaning a rejuvenative tonic for the female reproductive system).
Top Foods for Vitality and Sensuality
- Asparagus – Nicholas Culpepper, an English Herbalist wrote that asparagus “stirs up lust in man and woman.” In 19th Century France, grooms were served 3 courses of asparagus at their pre-nuptial dinner and Ayurveda states it has the ability to lower Pitta (excess heat) thus calming the man and increasing his potency.
- Almonds – Long regarded as a symbol of fertility, almonds are high in vitamin E, magnesium and fibre. The sensual aroma of almonds is said to arouse passion and desire in a woman.
- Arugula (Rocket) – This spicy green leaf, regularly used in pasta and salads, has been touted as a potent aphrodisiac since the first century AD.
- Avocado – The Aztecs called the avocado “Ahuacuatl” or “Testicle tree” due to the resemblance of the hanging pairs of fruit on the tree but Catholic priests of Old World Spain found the womanly appearance of the fruit obscene and forbade parishioners to eat them.
- Bananas – It isn’t just the phallic shape of this potassium-rich fruit which makes it acknowledged the world over as an aphrodisiac. Bananas also contain the enzyme bromelain which triggers testosterone production.
- Basil – Ancient Greeks praised its stimulating and arousal powers, and it is regularly added in the cuisine of famously romantic Italians. Perhaps it’s Basil’s ability to promote circulation and the nutrient flow around the body that places it on this list.
- Beetroot – Mentioned in Roman folklore, its high boron content is related to the production of sex hormones. Betaine and tryptophan in beetroot also helps relax the mind and help a sense of wellbeing.
- Chocolate – The king of natural aphrodisiacs, the feel-good chemical compounds in chocolate induce feelings of pleasure, excitement, attraction and euphoria.
- Figs – Said to have been Cleopatra’s favourite fruit, an open fig is believed to emulate female sex organs. Ancient Greeks held them as sacred and associated them with love and fertility.
- Garlic – Though some may view this pungent seasoning as more of a passion killer, it’s been reported through the ages for aphrodisiacal properties. As well as a potent immune booster, it’s full of allicin, an ingredient that increases blood flow.
- Honey – A great source of boron, honey is thought to help metabolise estrogen and enhance testosterone promoting sex drive and orgasm in both men and women.
- Oysters – Brimming with zinc which helps to raise testosterone and sperm production and increase libido, it is just the sensual appearance of this crustacean. Its high omega 3 content helps ward off depression and promote wellbeing.