Top 10: Aphrodisiacs to rev up your sex drive!

Garlic may not be great for your breath but is a great sexual stimulant as are ginger and saffron.

Nutmeg aids in blood circulation while basil helps you de-stress.

Here are ten aphrodisiacs that you will easily find in your kitchen, well most of them at least.

Nutritionist Shonali Sabherwal is the author of two books -- The Beauty Diet (can be purchased here) and the recently launched The Love Diet.

In the pages to follow we bring you an excerpt from Sabherwal's second book, The Love Diet.

Aphrodisiacs: The word comes from the name of the Greek goddess of sexuality and love -- Aphrodite.

Aphrodisiacs stimulate sexual desire through nutrition rather than casting some magic spell on you.

In the Ayurvedic text, the Caraka Samhita Vol III, three whole chapters have been dedicated to the study of Vajikarna therapy ie how aphrodisiacs work.

They have been classified in the foods that help in the prevention of diseases and rejuvenation and maintenance of positive health.

1. Spices

Spices stimulate sexual arousal but must be used in moderation as too much of it will cause a very yin effect, dispersing sexual energy.

For eg chillies have capsaicin which is known to stimulate sexual desire as it improves blood circulation.

2. Ginger

Ginger is known to stimulate erectile function and prolongs it. It is an aphrodisiac and also thins blood; it has trace mineral iron, zinc, and magnesium. It contains vitamin C, beta carotene, calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Excerpted from The Love Diet by Shonali Sabherwal (Rs 299) with kind permission of Random House India

3. Garlic

Garlic increases circulation and keeps the blood vessels clean. It is also high on calcium. It’s rich in calcium and vitamin C.

4. Saffron (Kesar)

Saffron is known to be sexually stimulating; a particular Asian variety increases male libido. Men have used it to prevent premature ejaculation. It improves blood circulation and helps the kidneys. A pinch before bedtime will also aid in overcoming sleeping disorders.

5. Nutmeg (Jayphal)

It is known to stimulate nerve cells and aid blood circulation.

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6. Basil (Tulsi)

Also called holy basil by Hindus and now hailed in the West, basil is regarded as an 'anti-stress' agent. It is known to purify blood and help with respiratory disorders. Basil stimulates sex drive and boost fertility.

7. Turmeric

Turmeric has antioxidants, is known to be an anti-bacterial agent, and also ‘revs up’ sex drive.

High quality unrefined vegetable oils are good to prepare food in, not the extra refined variety. Coffee, tea, alcohol, drugs, medication should be minimized. Herbal teas and decaffeinated teas are recommended.

8. Chia seeds (takmarya or subja)

Known for their excellent source of omega 3 and phytonutrients. They are also highly antioxidant (kaempferol, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and querecetin) in nature. It contains a host of trace minerals which are lacking in the Indian diet. It also contains all the necessary amino acids, making it a seed which is high on protein.

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9. Goji berries

Goji berries are native to Tibet and China and are very high on amino acid profile, therefore considered the most nutritious among all fruits.

They impact your sexual drive positively as they are high on arginine, affecting the production of NO.

They are also high on antioxidants like selenium and beta carotene and prevent damage by free radicals. Recommended daily allowance is 10–30 gms. A word of caution -- do not take them if you are on blood thinners.

10. Maca

Maca is a Peruvian plant (not available in India) which is used for strength and fertility in traditional medicine.

Also considered to be an aphrodisiac amongst the Incas.

It has a particular chemical called p-methoxybenzyl isothiocyanate which is known to enhance sexual drive.

It is known to reduce enlarged prostate glands and improve erectile function. It has phytochemicals in large numbers and is known to also control high estrogen levels.