We all know luxury aphrodisiacs like Champagne, chocolate, and oysters. However, how about asparagus or blowfish? More utilitarian than romantic, unusual aphrodisiacs like these have been utilized since humans could procreate.
Originally sought after as cures for infertility, these items have become inexorably tied to pleasure. If you’re looking for a little assistance in the love department, here are aphrodisiacs from around the globe to try.
Ambergris
Ambergris is sometimes inaccurately referred to as “whale vomit” because it originates from the stomach of a sperm whale. This waxy substance is produced to protect the organ from indigestible squid beaks; it builds up and is expelled. When it reaches the surface, ambergris becomes one of the most expensive substances on the planet. Its musky aroma made it a fixture in historical perfumes, and it has also been ingested for its aphrodisiac properties—it’s said that Casanova liked to add it to his chocolate mousse.
Bird’s Nest Soup
First, find the nest of a cave-dwelling swiftlet, found mostly in Southeast Asia. Next, soak the nest in water overnight, ensuring to remove the feathers and other unsavory bits. Mix with ingredients like chicken broth, onions, sherry, and egg white, and voila, bird’s nest soup. With a consistency similar to egg drop soup, the dish is claimed to smooth the skin, boost the immune system, and enhance experiences in the bedroom. Oh, and did we mention the nests are made of swiftlet’s saliva? Yes, you’re drinking a bowl of spit.
Durian
The Malaysian saying, “When the durians come down, the sarongs come off,” may surprise some who have encountered the notoriously pungent South Asian superfood. However, in addition to being packed with nutrients, the silky fruit has also been scientifically proven to increase sex drive—at least in rats. In a lab, when consumed consistently over a month, the animals developed a larger sperm count and significant increases in libido.
Balut
Those familiar with Filipino cuisine have no doubt heard of balut, a fertilized duck or chicken embryo that gives pause to even the most adventurous eaters. Warm, crunchy, and eaten straight out of the shell, it’s a common sight on the streets of the Philippines. It is valued as an energy booster and a representation of virility in men. Packed with protein and nutrients, the stamina provided may contribute to its status as an aphrodisiac.
Fugu
It could be the adrenaline rush knowing that you might die if your serving of fugu, or blowfish, isn’t prepared correctly. Moreover, when consumed—after being prepared by a highly-trained, specially-certified chef—there’s just a trace of poison left in the Japanese delicacy, which causes a numbing and tingling sensation. Most likely, it’s a combination of the two, but either way, fugu promotes the right kind of blood flow, if you know what we mean.
Leafcutter Ants
You wouldn’t normally think of ants as an appropriate wedding gift, but in Colombia, you’d receive them with enthusiasm. For over 500 years, these big-bottomed leafcutter ants (hormigas culonas in Spanish) have been believed to get people in the mood. The females are harvested during the rainy months for a delicacy that is packed with protein and low in fat. When fried or toasted, they taste a little nutty.
White Asparagus
In culinary circles, white asparagus is known for its sweet and mild flavor and abundance of nutrients. In Germany, the vegetable has reached nearly cult-like status due to its aphrodisiac qualities. Beyond its distinctive shape, it is said to enhance histamine production, which may ease and strengthen orgasms. Stock up—it’s only available from late April to mid-June.
Cow Cod Soup
The reasons cow cod soup is considered libido-enhancing are straightforward—it contains “cod” or bull’s penis. This key ingredient is simmered with garlic, onion, root vegetables, green bananas, and scotch bonnet peppers in a white rum-based broth. Jamaican men swear by its passion-inducing properties. Don’t ask the ladies, though—this is strictly a men’s-only affair.
This article originally published in January 2020 and last updated in February 2021.
