SULTAN’S COFFEE
‘In ancient Arabia there was a recipe that the sultan used to ensure he   could please his harem of wives,’ explains herbalist Phillip Weeks. ‘It   was a mixture of strong black coffee, cardamom, raw honey and saffron.’   Coffee has long been known to increase alertness, but it only works as a potent   stimulant if you don’t drink it regularly. Cardamom extract has been shown   to boost circulation and raw honey contains many nutrients including boron which   may balance hormones. ‘Saffron is rich in phytonutrients and research has   shown that men suffering with erectile dysfunction benefited.'

FRUITS OF THE SEA
  Casanova was said to breakfast on 50 oysters, which contain high levels of libido-boosting   zinc. ‘Zinc is important in maintaining hormonal balance and adequate intake   has been associated with a healthy sex drive, particularly in men,’ says   nutritional therapist Dr Elisabeth Philipps. A 2005 Italian study also found   that uncooked shellfish contained high levels of the amino acids D Aspartic   acid and N-methyl-D-aspartate which increase testosterone production in males   and progestone in females. Increased levels are associated with a high sex drive.  

A SPRINKLE OF CHILLI
  Adding a bit of spice to your meal really will leave you hot under the collar   because of the active compound capsaicin. ‘It improves blood circulation,   heightens nerve endings, increases heart rate and body temperature which mimics   the sensations we experience before and during intercourse,’ explains Dr   Philipps.

AVOCADO
‘Avocados are rich in folic acid, which has been shown to boost circulation   and promote heart health,’ says Dr Philipps. ‘They are also very rich   in good fats which help keep hormones in balance.’ The fruit is also rich   in Vitamin E, an antioxidant linked to enhanced sexual pleasure in women and   longer-lasting erections in men.

L-ARGININE
  This substance is crucial for the production of nitrous oxide, which stimulates   blood flow to intimate areas. You can find the chemical in nuts such as walnuts   and peanuts, seaweed, turkey and chicken, but you can also get it as a supplement.   ‘It is a natural form of Viagra, but the quantity each man needs varies   dramatically,’ explains Weeks. ‘Most men start with 1,000mg and it   takes about four hours to metabolise. Research has shown it can increase the   length of an orgasm.’ If you suffer with a heart condition, speak to a   doctor before trying this supplement.

BOX OF CHOCOLATES
‘Chocolate is a sensual food – it is sweet and smooth so automatically   evokes feelings of comfort,’ says Dr Philipps. ‘It also contains phenylethylamine,   which triggers the release of dopamine which can make you feel euphoric and   very awake.’ The high sugar content is a great energy boost if you’re   planning a very physical evening.

AZTEC TEA
  Damiana is a herb known to boost sexual desire since Aztec times. ‘I often   prescribe this herb to patients who want to boost their libido,’ says Weeks.   ‘It contains caffeine-like substances and essential oils that help balance   hormones, boost circulation to the genitals and increase body temperature.’   Weeks suggests drinking several cups of tea throughout the day. Try Rio Amazon   Damiana Tea (40 bags, £7.99; stressnomore.co.uk).

HAVE A BANANA
  Bananas have long been regarded as an aphrodisiac and there is science behind   their reputation. ‘They are rich in potassium and B vitamins, both important   for maintaining a healthy sex drive,’ says Dr Philipps. ‘Potassium   maintains healthy muscle function and blood flow and the B vitamins help maintain   hormone levels for a healthy libido.’ There is also evidence that the enzyme   bromelain found in bananas and pineapples helps boost libido.