The ultimate foreplay: 13 aphrodisiacs you can find in the garden

Have you ever wondered what home remedies you could use to spice up your love life? Well Condoms.uk reveal thirteen aphrodisiacs that can be grown in your very own garden. 

Vegetables

1. Maca

We're starting off with probably the least well-known of the vegetables, meet maca! The root veggie, originating from the Andes packs a punch in the passion department. It loves cool, high-altitude spots, which makes it well-suited to being grown in a UK garden. 

There are multiple health benefits to maca, but the one that stands out is the ability to increase semen production in men. As a result, it can also improve a man's sexual desires. The root vegetable has been used for centuries to boost fertility. It contains compounds called macamides and macaenes, which may affect dopamine and serotonin levels, playing a role in regulating mood and sexual desire.

Maca is also known for supporting production of sex hormones like testosterone, which is crucial for libido and sexual performance in both men and women. Additionally, maca is rich in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which are essential for overall sexual health, including arousal and performance.

2. Asparagus

Is the phallic shape of this vegetable a coincidence? This sexy stalk loves soaking up the sun in well-drained soil, so a shaded spot in the garden is preferably. 

Asparagus is often described as an aphrodisiac due to its nutritional composition. It contains high levels of vitamin E, which is known to promote blood circulation and oxygen flow to the genital area, potentially enhancing arousal and sexual response. Additionally, asparagus is rich in potassium, a mineral that supports the production of sex hormones essential for libido and overall sexual health. Consuming asparagus regularly, ideally over consecutive days, may maximise its aphrodisiac effects by providing a consistent supply of these beneficial nutrients to the genitals. 

3. Carrots

Crunchy and juicy, carrots thrive in sunny spots and thrive between the months of April to July in UK gardens. Plus, when pulled fresh out of the ground and eaten raw, they are said to increase fertility. 

Carrots are rich in vitamin E, which is known to ramp up progesterone, as well as vitamin A which is really important for sexual wellness. Vitamin A plays a crucial part in the production of sex hormones, both in men and women. For men, this nutrient is particularly essential as it contributes significantly to the process of sperm production. Optimal levels of testosterone are vital for maintaining libido, sexual function, and overall reproductive health in men.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a powerhouse for boosting blood flow and, in turn, other things. Plant it in fertile soil and watch your love life flourish! Garlic is usually planted in late autumn so it has a period of cold for a better crop.

Garlic is a member of the onion family and has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac, this is down to the compound in it called allicin. Allicin relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow throughout the body, including the genital area. This increased blood flow may enhance arousal and sexual responsiveness, leading to improved sexual experiences.

A consideration for this potent vegetable however, is its strong odour. Garlic breath isn't the most attractive thing, so if you're using garlic as your aphrodisiac of choice, maybe have some strong mints handy.

Fruits

5. Fig

These sweet treats are like nature's little love bombs, that will have you feeling fruity! Figs need a warm, sunny and sheltered area to thrive, so planting a fig tree in spring in a south-facing garden would be perfect. 

Figs as an aphrodisiac hit different as many people are drawn to them due to their luscious texture, sweet taste, and visually suggestive appearance. The voluptuous shape of figs, with their soft, fleshy interior and tiny seeds, has led to associations with fertility and sexuality, with some people interpreting their appearance as resembling female sex organs.

On top of this, figs are rich in nutrients that are essential for sexual health and vitality, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A and K. These nutrients contribute to energy and metabolism, which is an important factor in sexual arousal and performance.

6. Strawberries

Strawberries love basking in the sunlight, and their juicy goodness is sure to sweeten any romantic rendezvous. Best planted in the UK during late spring to early summer, strawberries thrive in well-drained soil and ample sunlight. 

Known for their succulent sweetness and vibrant red colour, strawberries are considered an aphrodisiac due to their sensual appearance and high vitamin C content, which promotes blood flow and energy levels. Enjoyed fresh or as part of a romantic dessert, strawberries can also add a touch of sweetness to intimate moments.

7. Peach

Not a suggestive emoji for no reason, peaches thrive in warm, sandy soil. Ideally planted in the UK during late spring to early summer, peaches flourish in sheltered locations with fertile, well-drained soil. 

With their juicy flesh and delicate aroma, peaches have long been associated with sensuality and fertility. Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, peaches stimulate the senses and promote overall well-being and energy, making them a delightful addition to romantic meals. Vitamin C is also known to increase sperm count improving male fertility. 

8. Pomegranate

These ruby-red beauties are bursting with antioxidants, perfect for keeping your love life in full bloom. Best planted in the UK during late spring to early summer, pomegranates thrive in sunny, well-drained locations with protection from harsh winds. 

Pomegranates are revered as symbols of love and fertility in various cultures, with their jewel-like seeds and tangy-sweet flavour evoking passion and vitality. Packed with antioxidants and nutrients, including vitamin C and potassium, pomegranates are believed to enhance libido and promote cardiovascular health, making them a popular choice for sexual activity. 

9. Apples

An apple a day keeps the doctor away—and maybe brings a little extra excitement to the bedroom! Ideally planted in the UK during autumn or winter, apples grow best in fertile, well-drained soil and require full sun to thrive. 

With their crisp texture and refreshing taste, apples have been associated with love and desire since ancient times. Rich in dietary fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, apples support overall health and vitality. Antioxidants can help stimulate blood flow to the genitals, which helps with turning someone on and arousal. 

Herbs

10. Chillies

Feeling hot, hot, hot. Plant them in fertile soil and get ready to spice things up with a partner. Best grown in the UK from late spring to early summer, chillies thrive in warm, sunny conditions. 

Known for their fiery heat and pungent aroma, chillies are believed to stimulate the release of endorphins and boost circulation, creating a sense of excitement and arousal. Whether used fresh, dried, or in spicy dishes, chillies add a touch of heat to the body and the bedroom.

11. Basil

Basil is a great secret weapon for revving up your libido. Plant it in sunny spots and watch your love life blossom! Ideally grown from late spring to early summer, basil prefers warm conditions and well-drained soil. 

With its fragrant leaves and distinctive flavour, basil has been known for its aphrodisiac properties for years. Rich in essential oils and compounds like eugenol and linalool, basil stimulates the senses and promotes relaxation, setting the mood for intimacy and passion. This sensual aphrodisiac can increase heart rates with its fragrant scent. 

12. Ginger

Ginger isn't just a kitchen staple; it's a love potion in disguise! Plant it in moist, shady areas during spring or early summer. 

Known for its spicy-sweet flavour and warming properties, ginger has long been prized for its aphrodisiac effects. Rich in gingerol and other bioactive compounds, ginger stimulates circulation and enhances sensitivity, making it a popular choice for romantic dishes and herbal remedies. Ginger is something that can benefit both men and women due to helping increase blood flow, which may help sexual arousal and libido. 

Flowers

13. Lavender

Take a deep breath and relax with lavender. This calming flower is perfect for setting the mood and getting you in the mood for a steamy night in. Ideally grown in early summer, lavender prefers well-drained soil and full sun. 

With its soothing fragrance and calming properties, lavender has been associated with love and romance for centuries. Rich in aromatic oils like linalool and linalyl acetate, lavender promotes relaxation and reduces stress, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to intimacy and connection. Used in culinary creations, lavender can add a touch of romance to any occasion.

So there you have it, thirteen aphrodisiacs straight from your garden to help in your bedroom. Whether you're spicing things up with chillies or getting fruity with figs, there's no shortage of natural wonders to ignite your passion. So grab your gardening tools and get ready for a blooming love affair.