An aphrodisiac is a substance that stimulates sexual desire.

Centuries ago aphrodisiacs were first sought out as a remedy for various sexual anxieties including fears of inadequate performance as well as a need to increase fertility. In the past it was said that if a food resembled the genitalia then it possessed, so it was reasoned, sexual powers. It is possible, though, that certain foods, such as fish or seafood, could be considered to have aphrodisiac qualities in the long run since fish provides long-chained fatty acids which are also found in fish oils. These fish oils could improve blood flow.

Out of the various foods to which aphrodisiac powers are traditionally attributed, fish, vegetables and spices have been the most popular throughout history.

In the Kama Sutra which is an ancient text giving rules for sensual pleasure, there is a section which includes advice on aphrodisiacs and the spices which enhance one's love life. These texts date back thousands of years so Indians have been using spices as aphrodisiacs for centuries.

Many spices have been known to have aphrodisiac properties because they also possess medicinal properties. For example coriander heightens the emotions with the seeds having an especially euphoric effect on women.

The Kama Sutra uses fresh fennel juice with milk as an aphrodisiac. Hindus use fresh fennel juice, milk, honey, ghee or clarified butter and sugar to stimulate sex. A kind of Kama Sutra shake. Cloves are commonly used in cooking and herbal teas such as chai. Clove oil can be worn as an aphrodisiac, and if eaten whole the buds are said to stir up bodily lusts.

Also, because of their shape, cloves are considered an aphrodisiac for males, especially in Asia. Indonesian parents plant a clove tree when they bear a son, so both will prosper as they grow up together.

As far back as the first page of recorded history, cinnamon has been held in esteem for its powerful medicinal qualities. A spice used in Asia to guard against colds, the bark of the cinnamon tree is also used around the world as flavouring for both sweet and savoury dishes as well as in aromatherapy for relaxation.

Among the spices considered useful for producing "heat" within the body, cinnamon has been measured to increase appetite, both physical and sexual.  

Nutmeg has been used for more than 5,000 years for its medicinal properties. For the ancient Arabs, nutmeg was a primary treatment for nausea, shortness of breath and even skin disorders. The Hindus embraced the spice more for its sensual properties as a stimulant in raising body heat and sweetening the breath. But should be used in moderation. This baking spice with a bite is well known in the medical community to be a narcotic. In large doses it can be hallucinogenic. Today, we love nutmeg for its scent, which evokes all the warmth and comfort of home, of fresh baked spice cake, long winter nights by the fire, snowstorms and sleigh rides.

Nutmeg's connection with the comforts of the kitchen and of our mother perhaps explain why it's known to have more of an effect on men than on women! The heat in garlic is said to stir sexual desires. Garlic has been used for centuries to cure everything from the common cold to heart ailments. Ginger root, raw, cooked or crystallised is a stimulant to the circulatory system. Spices like any other food should be taken in moderation. Less is more in this case. My Kerala Chicken Curry taken from India with Passion includes at least five of the spices I have mentioned and is very easy to prepare. Have a spicy Valentine and have fun.