5 Local Aphrodisiacs
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, love is in the air. To help spread the love we’ve rounded up a list of five foods famously known for being aphrodisiacs. Good news for Nova Scotian’s this Valentine’s Day: there are lots available in our province!
Oysters
Oysters are a well-known aphrodisiac and have a reputation for being great for love and fertility. This is in part because they are high in the mineral zinc. Find local oysters at Eel Lake Oyster Farm, Sober Island Oysters and Bay Enterprises. If you aren’t up for shucking your own, there are an array of local oyster bars that provide delicious oyster and beverage pairings.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a sensual treat, from its taste to its smooth texture to its aroma. Even better, dark chocolate has been shown to cause a spike in dopamine, which is the hormone that produces feelings of pleasure in the brain. Make sure to pick up some chocolates this Valentine’s Day from Sugah!, Just Us! or Gourmandises Avenue Chocolaterie.
Honey
Honey itself is a symbol of procreation as it is made through pollination. It also contains the mineral boron, which helps regulate hormones and provides a natural energy boost. We suggest buying local honey from Cornect Family Farm. If your honey is sick this Valentine’s Day, try this recipe for Lemon-Spiced Hot Toddy.
Coffee
Coffee can elevate your mood because, like chocolate, it can increase dopamine levels. Additionally, the caffeine in coffee is a stimulant that increases heart rate and blood flow. Pick up some beans for your brew at Just Us! Coffee, Full Steam Coffee Co., Laughing Whale or Nova Coffee. For a fun Valentine’s Day activity, take a trip to the Just Us Coffee Roastery & Museum in Grand Pre. While enjoying your coffee, you can take a peek at the Roastery, Fair Trade museum and Chocolate Workshop!
Red Wine
A beautiful, deep shade of red, this wine is evocative of romance and love all on its own. Red wine contains resveratrol, which is an antioxidant that can boost blood flow and improve circulation. Pick up a bottle for your night in or find many local red wines featured on the menus of Taste of Nova Scotia restaurants.
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