Top Edible Aphrodisiacs

Here are foods that are linked with love. 

Avocado

It could be the sensuous pear shape or the rich flavor of the fruit that gives avocado its aphrodisiac reputation. Whether added to salad, pureed in soups or chopped into the perfect bowl of fresh guacamole, the sea-green treat is perfect on your Valentine's table. 

Bananas

Rich in potassium and vitamin B, bananas are a feel-good food. For a sweet overindulgence, try a banana milkshake made with ripe bananas, milk and honey. According to banana.com, the combination will calm your stomach and re-regulate your blood sugar.

Chili Peppers This invigorating spice has an exotic reputation and stimulates endorphins. No wonder it is considered a symbol of love. Arriba!

Honey Birds and bees ring a bell? Honey is made through pollination and is a symbol of procreation. The word "honeymoon" got its name from mead, an alcoholic beverage made from honey, which was given to the happy couple.

Pine Nuts 

High in energizing zinc, pine nuts are also considered aphrodisiacs because of the effort required to procure these oily gems from pinecones.

Figs

Used by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the fig paradoxically symbolizes both sexuality and modesty. 

Arugula 

According to gourmetsleuth.com, this peppery plant has been documented as an aphrodisiac since the first century A.D. Toss it in a vibrant salad to give it a try. 

Oysters 

One of the most notorious aphrodisiacs, oysters are high in zinc and have a reputation for being great for love and fertility. 

Coffee  

The caffeine in coffee is a stimulant that ups the heart rate and makes the blood flow. Additionally, it is the top source of antioxidants in the American diet, according to a 2005 University of Scranton study.

 Chocolate 

The mysterious powers of chocolate are well loved. Whatever is in the sweet substance that sends us running back for more, it's definitely indispensable to Valentine's Day.

 Watermelon

According to sciencedaily.com, this "lycopene king" may have a Viagra-like effect on the body. It relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. It's also extremely low in calories and delicious.

Olives

Packed with antioxidants, olives and their oil have been used for centuries for health. The Greeks believed they made men more virile as well. Plus, olives make for a perfect low-carb appetizer.

Strawberries

Whether coated in a chocolate shell, dipped in whipped cream or nibbled on their own, strawberries are delicious. Feed them to each other for a healthy, vitamin C-packed dessert.

Cherries

Ice cream sundaes are lost without them. Drop a bright Maraschino cherry in a classic Manhattan for a grown-up romantic treat.

 Artichokes

Steam a few artichokes in white wine. Pull off the leaves and when you get to the center, share the delicious choke with the one you love.

Tea

Or you can skip the coffee after dinner and reach for a cup of chai tea. The typical spices in this brew—ginger, cloves and cinnamon—will get the blood flowing but the caffeine effect is less so you'll still be able to drift off to sleep after your meal.

Pomegranates

These bright gems enclosed in a thick rose husk are filled with antioxidants and make a sweet-tart addition to salads, dips and desserts.

 Whipped Cream

Decadent yet light as air, it just isn't dessert without this rich topping.

Steak

Carnal and decadent, steak makes for a rich and satisfying meal to share with your mate.