The world is currently going through a sex recession, with members of the Millenial and younger generations having less sex than the Generation Xers and Boomers had at the same age, according to General Social Survey data. There are many reasons why this is the case, but low libido is among the top ones. In the past, low libido was commonly thought to be a problem that only affected older people, but studies have revealed that even people in their 20s or younger are facing the same problem. To combat this, many people are using aphrodisiacs as a way to naturally boost their sex drive. Aphrodisiacs are foods that, when correctly introduced into your diet, can increase sensations of arousal, making you or your partner feel more like having sex. Whether you are looking to boost your chances of a hook-up at your next festival or you want to strengthen your relationship with your partner, here are some powerful aphrodisiacs you can include in your diet to spice things up in the bedroom, some of which could already be readily available in your kitchen.

Chocolate: the darker the better 

Chocolate has always been universally accepted as the food of love. People gift their loved ones chocolate to show them their love and appreciation on special days like Valentine’s day, birthdays and anniversaries. But, beyond its amazing taste and aroma, chocolate has also been shown to have certain chemicals like phenylethylamine, which may elicit a feeling of excitement and general well-being. Dark chocolate, in particular, has been proven to cause increased dopamine levels, which induces feelings of pleasure. 

Spanish fly products 

Found predominantly throughout Central Asia and Europe, the Spanish fly is one of the most interesting and unique creatures, both in its appearance and in its longstanding effects. As a defense mechanism, Spanish flies secrete a substance known as cantharidin, which not only wards off predators, but also attracts females. Over the years, scientists have discovered that cantharidin can also work for humans, serving as a powerful libido booster for men that induces sexual urges, limits erectile dysfunction, and promotes fertility. Spanish fly drugs are available in pills, drops, or powder that can be ingested directly in small doses, mixed into a drink, or even used in special culinary dishes. However, caution must be observed when taking any Spanish fly products. For one, raw cantharidin from Spanish flies is not safe to use as it can lead to skin irritation, swelling, and throbbing sensations that feel like stinging bites. If you want to enjoy the libido-boosting benefits of cantharidin without these negative effects, look for Spanish fly aphrodisiacs that incorporate helpful ingredients from cantharidin without any toxic elements. 

Turn up the heat 

Chilies can be found in almost every kitchen, serving as a key ingredient in many meals. If you already love the heat that chilies add to your meals, you’ll love what they can do for your libido. Chilies contain capsaicin, which is not only responsible for the heat you feel, but also stimulates the nerve endings of the tongue to release adrenaline. This, in turn, increases your heart rate and stimulates the release of endorphins, leading to higher sex drive. 

Fresh and raw oysters 

Oysters have been used as an aphrodisiac for many centuries; legend has it that Giacomo Casanova, the famed lover from the 18th century, ate raw oysters every morning to boost his stamina. Oysters contain a high amount of zinc, a key mineral in the production of testosterone and sperm. They also contain the amino acid tyrosine, which boosts the production of dopamine, further increasing libido. 

With the help of these aphrodisiacs, you can boost your libido naturally and get your sex life back on track without having to use harmful pharmaceutical products. However, before using them, keep in mind that what works for others may not work for you. It’s also a good idea to consult a doctor or nutritionist to get advice on the best aphrodisiacs for you, especially if you are on medications.