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Top 10 Aphrodisiacs

By Meaghan Cameron | January 11 2011
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#10 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.

Try this recipe: Citrus Avocado Salad

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#9 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.

Try this recipe: Chocolate Banana Bread Puddings

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

Try this recipe: Avocado-Mango Salad with Fresh Cheese and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

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#7 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.

Try this recipe: Puffs With Honey Butter

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

Try this recipe: Pine Nut-Crusted Tilapia

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

Try this recipe: Gorgonzola Figs With Balsamic Glaze

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#4 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.

Try this recipe: Nectarine Arugula Salad

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

Try this recipe: Crispy Oven-Fried Oysters

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#2 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.

Try this recipe: Cinnamon Mocha Coffee

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#1 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. Try these: Unique Chocolate Gift Ideas for Valentines Day

Try this recipe: Chocolate Cakes With Liquid Centers

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