5 Must-Try Ingredients to Ignite Passion and Sexual Intimacy

Humans have been hunting for aphrodisiacs for as long as we've been falling in love. But the truth is, modern scientific studies have found "no evidence" that any single food or ingredient increases our arousal or desire.

Truthfully, oysters, strawberries, and other so-called aphrodisiacs are more marketing hype than evidence-based. But that doesn't mean there aren't natural ingredients for sex with relaxing, calming, and mood-boosting qualities— elements that are arguably just as important for an intimate evening as an enhanced libido.

So, this Valentine's Day, skip the quote-on-quote aphrodisiacs and try curating a real connection with a menu designed around mood, deeper connection, and relaxation.  

Terpenes, the deliciously aromatic compounds produced by fruits, herbs, cannabis, and other botanicals, can also help create a more romantic mood. But, with more than 20,000 known terpenes (including 200 discovered in cannabis alone), where do you even start?

You could try linalool, a terpene found in lavender, which studies have determined has truly relaxing properties. Or why not limonene (a common terpene found in citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruit)? Research suggests it can increase dopamine levels and reduce stress. 

The beauty of terpenes lies in their versatility and ease of use. You could set the mood by adding a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser or choosing foods and herbs rich in these specific aromatic properties before V-day. 

All the way from the South Pacific comes another passionate option: kava. Kava is a gentle, mildly euphoric ingredient that can come with a few other pleasurable side effects. For starters, researchers have discovered that kava "significantly" helps increase sex drive for females (with no adverse effects for males). There is also evidence that kava improves sexual function and performance. 

Like many of the other ingredients on our list, kava's sexy side effects may actually stem from its relaxing and stress-relieving qualities rather than any direct impact on our libido. Kava's ability to encourage social connection and chattiness may also have lingering benefits. 

Whatever the scientific mechanism for kava's effects, you'll want to have our Kava and THC Dark Chocolate Bar ready to share with your lover this Valentine's Day.

As many cannabis lovers will tell you, this plant can have a profound impact on intimacy and connection. Typically, cannabis has relaxing effects, which can help set the mood, but it also seems to enhance the big moment as well.

According to recent scientific investigations, cannabis increases "the chances and duration of foreplay." It may also increase the duration and satisfaction of orgasms. Researchers have found cannabis boosts sensuality, which in turn improves sexual satisfaction.

Perhaps most profoundly, "Cannabis use before sex has been associated with more tender, slower, and compassionate sexual acts." 

The key to cannabis' sexual prowess lies in the amount consumed, especially when it comes to THC. A little THC goes a long way in the bedroom — but too much could have the opposite effect. Consider a smaller serving to avoid getting too relaxed and ending the night early. 

Valentine's Day is intimately associated with foods touted for their romance powers, and inevitably, these supposed natural aphrodisiacs pop up everywhere this time of year. Yet, the real power of these natural ingredients lies not in their mythical aphrodisiac qualities but in their ability to create a relaxing, intimate atmosphere that fosters powerfully deep connections.

For a truly memorable Valentine's Day this year, try creating a genuine connection with a menu centered on mood, intimacy, and relaxation rather than strictly just libido. 

Until next time, happy romancing, and mind your mind.