One of the oldest known foods, the artichoke is delicately meaty and filled with antioxidants. “Pull back the leaves of this incredible food, and you find that prickly choke playing hard to get,” says Hopkins. “Once inside, the delectable heart reveals itself.”

Avocado:

Sodium and cholesterol-free, avocados are nutritious, creamy and mild. “Filled with good fats and possessing a wonderful buttery texture, the curves of the avocado perfectly mimic the curves of a woman’s body,” says Hopkins.

Bananas:

With its rich, smooth taste (and obviously phallic shape), it’s no wonder that the banana has long been considered an aphrodisiac food. More scientifically, bananas are rich in potassium and B vitamins – two necessary components for sex-hormone production.

Chocolate:

The connection between Valentine’s Day and chocolate is more than just a marketing gimmick. Chocolate is a flavorful source of quick energy and has been known to elevate people’s moods. Why? Chocolate contains two related alkaloid stimulants – theobromine and caffeine. It is also rich in phenylethylamine, a compound that has effects similar to amphetamine.

Garlic:

Used for centuries in ancient Europe as an aphrodisiac remedy, garlic stimulates the secretion of gastric juices, aids in digestion and increases blood flow. It is said that the “heat” in garlic stirs sexual desires.

Ginger:

Before modern medicine, ginger was used to help relieve menstrual cramping. Ginger root is still used today to soothe the stomach. It also acts as a stimulant. As an aphrodisiac, ginger is thought to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus and intestines. “And ginger is great for digestion,” says Hopkins.

Honey:

Golden, sticky and sweet, honey’s look, taste and texture make it alluring and mysterious. “This substance is glorious,” says Hopkins.

Oysters:

The classic aphrodisiac, oysters get a lot of attention for their mouth feel, especially when swallowed raw (and whole). They also get attention for their resemblance to the female genitals. Very high in protein, oysters are also rich in zinc and iron – nutrients that help in the transport of oxygen and stimulate metabolism.

Pine Nuts:

Chock full of zinc, a key mineral in maintaining male potency, pine nuts have been used to stimulate libido since Medieval times. “Pine nuts have good fats and an extremely velvety texture,” says Hopkins. “They fit well as an addition to pasta dishes and lighter dishes, like salads.”

Vanilla:

Aromatic and seductive, the smell and flavor of vanilla is believed to increase feelings of lust. Some studies have shown that vanilla can raise levels of catecholamines, or adrenaline, in the blood.

And here are a couple of Martha’s favorite recipes that she shared with us to make sure we have a sensational Valentine’s experience!

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Curried Oysters with Chardonnay

What food gets you in the mood? Tell us below.