We’ve all heard that certain foods like oysters and chocolate have special ingredients that boost libido and fire up passion. But just how and why do these natural aphrodisiacs work? Just in time for Valentine’s Day, here’s a look into 8 aphrodisiac foods, what they do, and easy ideas on how to prepare them.

1. Avocado 

The avocado has been called an aphrodisiac since the Aztecs, who named the plant ahuacuatl, which literally means “testicle tree” based on the shape of the fruit and the fact that they grow and hang in pairs. But avocados have aphrodisiac qualities other than their shape. Avocados are rich in vitamin E, which may increase sperm count in men and boost libido in men and women alike. Vitamin b6, also prevalent in avocados, has been shown to improve mood and ward off depression. 

Avocados are easy to incorporate into a meal. Try making guacamole to enjoy with chips or fajitas. Or simply chop up an avocado to add to any salad, sandwich or wrap. 

2. Bananas 

Phallic shape aside, bananas are high in potassium and B vitamins. Both potassium and vitamin B are said to be key in the production of sex hormones. Potassium is also great for muscle health and strength. Bananas are great additions to most desserts as well as being tasty snacks on their own. Throw a banana into the blender with berries and yogurt for a smoothie or slice one up to enjoy with anything chocolate or peanut butter flavored or with granola and yogurt for breakfast. 

3. Hot Chili Peppers

Proceed with caution! These extremely spicy peppers are not for everyone. Chili peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin that increases blood flow, speeds heart rate and stimulates nerve endings. Capsaicin even works as a pain reliever. If you can handle the heat, dice up some chilies to cook with fajitas or in a marinade. Chili powder is common in many types of curries as well as many Thai dishes. 

4. Chocolate 

It wouldn’t be V-Day without obscene amounts of chocolate, but there are actually scientific reason as to why we associate this treat with romance and lust. Chocolate contains chemical compounds that release dopamine in the brain, inducing feelings of pleasure, excitement and attraction. These compounds are found in cocoa itself, so the stronger the chocolate, the stronger the effect. And let’s be honest, chocolate is just delicious. 

If you’re feeling ambitious try making a cake or brownies from scratch using pure cocoa powder. Or skip the cooking and head to the store for a bar of dark chocolate! 

5. Garlic

Yes it will give you bad breath but garlic contains a compound called allicin that increases circulation. To get the blood flowing, chop up some fresh garlic in a pasta dish or in a marinade for chicken. Just remember to keep some mints handy. 

6. Vanilla 

This tasty spice not only adds great flavor to any dessert, it also has some health benefits. The aroma and taste of vanilla are known for their relaxation and calming effects. Vanilla has been shown to stimulate nerve endings and boost hormone secretion as well. Stick to pure vanilla beans or vanilla essential oil to get these benefits, as many products that are vanilla “flavored” do not contain flavoring derived from the actual plant. Use purer forms of the spice in baking or cooking or look for products that have vanilla bean, vanilla essential oil or pure extract in the ingredients list. 

7. Honey

Used in medieval times to make the beverage mead, honey was thought to increase sexual desire. This natural sweetener contains boron, a mineral used in the production of the sex hormone estrogen. Honey is also rich in B vitamins, which promote testosterone production. To get these benefits, use honey as a sugar replacement in tea or drizzle some on fruit. Add honey to plain yogurt for sweetness and flavor. Honey can replace sugar in many recipes but when measuring, keep in mind that most honeys are actually sweeter than sugar. 

8. Almonds 

Throughout history almonds have been known as a fertility symbol that had the ability to spark arousal. But science says that the high concentration of manganese, copper and riboflavin found in almonds can boost energy. Like avocados, almonds also have a lot of vitamin E. Many nutrients found in almonds are also great for skin and hair. 

For a snack, try nibbling on raw almonds, or mixing them in trail mix. Try crushing almonds and adding them to a salad or as a garnish to any dish. When baking, use almond oil to add some extra flavor.