For centuries, people have used certain foods to boost libido. Some of these foods influence sex hormone levels, while others spike heart rate or mood so as to make you feel a bit more sexually feisty.
Oysters
The 18th century lover Casanova was rumored to have eaten 50 oysters every day for breakfast because they were aphrodisiacs. Oysters contain zinc, which may indeed boost libido. A 2009 study published in the "Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences" by D.M. Dissanayake and colleagues found that zinc consumption boosts sexual activity in male rats. In addition, in 2005 George Fisher, a professor of chemistry at Barry University in Australia, chemically analyzed raw oysters and found that they contained two rare amino acids, D-aspartic acid and N-methyl-D-aspartate. When he injected these compounds into male rats it boosted the production of testosterone, and when he injected them into female rats, it spiked the production of the sex hormone progesterone. Both testosterone and progesterone boost sexual desire.
Chilis
Chili peppers are hot because they contain the compound capsaicin, which stimulates nerves and boosts heart rate. Capsaicin may also induce the release of endorphins, which leave you with a natural "high" that might boost sex drive, according to Discovery Health.
Chocolate
Chocolate has long been thought to be an aphrodisiac because it contains phenylethylamine, a chemical that creates a sense of well-being and excitement. But its effects may be very mild. According to an article published in the "New York Times," a 130-pound woman would have to eat 25 pounds of chocolate in one sitting in order to boost her libido.
