Why Chocolate Is A Food Of Love And Sex
Revealing the science behind the world’s tastiest aphrodisiac
Dark and decadent. Sensual and indulgent. A divine texture that melts in the mouth... It’s easy to see why chocolate is a popular gift for Valentine’s Day. The Aztecs considered chocolate a royal aphrodisiac. The Mayans associated it with their gods of love and fertility . Casanova reportedly drank cups of chocolate as a prelude to seduction.
But there’s a biological basis for chocolate’s amorous effects. Dark chocolate contains substances that affect our mood, energy and sexual function – not to mention the amazing health benefits it has on the heart. In this blog, we dig into the science to explore exactly why chocolate has long been considered the ultimate food of love and sex.
Aphrodisiac
Dark chocolate contains L-arginine, an amino acid that can be an effective natural aphrodisiac for people of all genders. It works by increasing nitric oxide, which essentially dilates blood vessels and promotes blood flow to your sexual organs, enhancing sensation, satisfaction and desire.
Stimulating
Dark chocolate contains theobromine, a stimulating alkaloid similar to caffeine which works on the central nervous system – boosting energy and causing you to feel more excited and stimulated.
Heart-opening
Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols – powerful antioxidant agents that support cardiovascular health – and nitrates, which dilate blood vessels and enhance blood flow to the heart, resulting in that loved-up, open-hearted feeling.
Stress reducing
The polyphenols found in chocolate have been shown to reduce stress in both healthy and highly-stressed individuals: a 2014 clinical study concluded that daily consumption of 40g of chocolate during a 2-week period is an effective way to reduce perceived stress in females. And when we feel safe, secure and unstressed, we are more able to give and receive love and enjoy our sexuality.
Bliss inducing
Dark chocolate’s valeric acid content triggers the release of dopamine, anandamide and the endorphin phenylethylamine, known as the ‘bliss molecules,’ which give us the same euphoric feeling as when we fall in love or are deep in the throes of passion. It also contains the essential amino acid tryptophan, which increases the production of serotonin, a brain chemical that induces feelings of joy, well-being and pleasure.
Simple and delicious
Just melt some Cacao, dip your strawberries and allow to cool down. When you’re ready, sit back and ENJOY!
A word to the wise:
If you want to use chocolate to enhance your love and sex life, avoid products with added extras such as dairy, caramel and sugar – which may inadvertently produce anti-aphrodisiac effects such as sugar crashes and tiredness.
Dark chocolate is always best – as pure and unsweetened as possible – or try our ceremonial-grade raw cacao: it’s organic, ethical and full of the benefits described in this blog.
Looking for an indulgent and sensual Valentine’s Day present? We have some gorgeous cacao gifts in our shop, including a cacao starter pack, taster pack – or show yourself some love with our self-care pack. And did you know Ritual Cacao now comes in individual portions? Perfect for popping in the post to your Valentine’s Day sweetheart.