The word Aphrodisiac has become a common word in our society today, this can be greatly linked to the continuous conversations about sex and wanting to be a better sexual partner. Although, there are so many aphrodisiac examples on the internet; from the natural ones to the aphrodisiac drugs sold to people even without proper prescription. The question is, do aphrodisiacs work? 

Aphrodisiacs are used to improve sexual drive and increase libido. Even though research has shown that for the most part, the power of aphrodisiacs is all in our heads. Mostly, women search online in different ways to find the right one for them; exploring topics like "how to increase female libido instantly” or "aphrodisiacs for women”. 

There’s a continuous argument with testimonials that they are a strong boost of sexual pleasure and can even be found in what we eat. Hence, in this article, we would discuss 5 natural aphrodisiac foods in Nigeria

5 Natural Aphrodisiacs To Boost Your Libido 

Sexual pleasure is strongly linked to your mood and hormones at a particular time. The right mood and hormones can however be ruined by stress, anger, lack of sleep, agitation, poor diet, etc. These aphrodisiac foods help trigger the right hormones and set the mood for sex. 

GORON TULA

A northern fruit known as Azanza Garckeana (Snot Apple or African Chewing Gum) has proven to be a powerful aphrodisiac for both men and women. 

Goron Tula has a chewy and slimy, sweet taste. Although there is little to no scientific or medical proof, its juice reportedly increases sexual desire in both genders. 

ALLIGATOR PEPPER 

Alligator pepper (Aframomum melegueta) is a West African spice made from the seeds and seed pods of the Aframomum danielli plant. It is very spicy and used as a common ingredient in many cuisines. Alligator pepper boosts libido and serves as a natural aphrodisiac.

According to a 2017 study, alligator pepper enhances sexual life as it reduces the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

WATERMELON

Watermelon is a very easy-to-get and enjoyable aphrodisiac fruit in Nigeria, especially for men. In recent times, a lot of people are realizing that beyond its significant hydrating benefits, it is the new Viagra because of its citrulline amino acid. The citrulline amino acid increases nitric acid which is helpful for the cardiovascular system and helps to circulate blood vessels to the male organ important for erection.

TIGER NUTS

A common Nigerian fruit from the north also known as Aya has been one of the most common aphrodisiac fruits in Nigeria. Tigernuts are rich in numerous nutrients like Vitamin E. Vitamin E increases testosterone which promotes fertility in both men and women. For men, it increases sperm count and motility as well as boosts sexual drive. For women, it increases libido and the moisture needed to increase sexual drive.

COCONUT WATER

Coconut water is mostly overlooked - either because people opt for broken coconuts or because they feel it doesn’t taste so great. The last coconut water I had was in Ghana, and to be honest, it was so sweet that I kept looking at my hand to make sure it was coconut water. Anyway, coconut water contains electrolytes that aid blood circulation. Coconut water is rich in calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which increases metabolism and, in turn, provides strength to stay longer in bed.

Another reason why you should be breaking a coconut and preparing to drink its water is that it boosts circulation which helps you climax. 

Someone is already heading to the coconut seller…. Lol

Bonus - Red wine is an aphrodisiac that is mostly neglected. A moderate amount of red wine can increase female libido. It does this by stimulating the part of the brain called the hypothalamus. This part helps regulate basic human functions, including sexual drive and hormonal balance. 

Does Aphrodisiac Work?

Some schools of thought believe strongly that Aphrodisiac in any form, even as food does not have any effect on your sexual performance. Other schools of thought continuously oppose to this with research showing how and the mechanism behind it. The effects of Aphrodisiacs can be classified into Psychological and Physiological effects. Physiological effects increase hormone levels, which in turn increases blood flow. While psychological effects can increase sexual pleasure through the release of properties like Bufotenin, which are hallucinogenic.

To increase the chances of an aphrodisiac working for you, you need to be intentional about your hormones and senses, and what works for you. Dr Jared Heathman MD believes that the less generalized aphrodisiacs are, the more efficient they are. The Dr suggests that individuals customize what works for them based on their experience and hormones. If your intake of coconut water helps you sexually, it is not 100% certain it would help the next person - theirs might just be something else or even sensual music. Hence, your mind plays a vital role in your sexual life.

It is important to know that libido can be reduced for several reasons. This doesn’t mean people with low libido have health problems. These things happen naturally from time to time. The essence of an aphrodisiac is to satisfy your partner's sexual desire while still enjoying sex at the same time. If this is reoccurring for you, you can try to change your diet and lifestyle, rest a lot, take supplements or change your mindset towards sex.