The eating of an oyster is a sensual affair, a tale of seduction. Crack open its rocklike shell point and it reveals the delicate tissue at its heart. It is soft, slippery, and slightly briny, tasting of the soul of the ocean that made it.
Slurping directly from the shell can be playful and intimate, adding to their erotic reputation. Often a special treat, couples may reserve them for romantic occasions or celebratory moments, making them a perfect addition to a romantic meal and enhancing their sensual appeal. For many, the experience of eating oysters act is akin to food pornography, an aphrodisiac.
Aphrodisiac oysters are legendary
In Greek mythology, when Aphrodite the goddess of love arose from the sea, she emerged on an oyster shell. Derived from her name, scientists define an aphrodisiac as any food, medicine or edible substance that arouses the sexual desire or increases pleasure and performance.
Roman Emperor Aulus Vitellius allegedly gorged on a thousand oysters in one sitting at a dinner feast in the year 69 AD. That slurp fest sealed the bivalve’s fate as an aphrodisiac for the ages. Casanova also played a part. The famed Venetian womaniser would slurp his way through dozens of oysters at breakfast, specifically for their effect as an aphrodisiac.
What does the science say?
Scientific proof of oysters’ aphrodisiac powers, however, is tenuous. But the good news is, oysters are scientifically proven to be good for what drives your sex drive. Oysters contain compounds that have been directly or indirectly linked to aspects of sexual health and well-being.
Oysters are rich in two amino acids associated with increased levels of sex hormones. In addition, oysters are an excellent source of zinc and contain a higher amount per serving than any other food. Slurping down three raw oysters gives you approximately three times your recommended daily intake.
Zinc is essential for male sexual function and fertility. Low levels of this mineral may negatively affect testosterone levels. Zinc is also necessary for maintaining levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that controls feelings of motivation and reward. Some research suggests that dopamine may be involved with feelings of motivation regarding sex and male sexual health. Along with several other neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, dopamine may also play a key role in promoting women’s sexual function and desire.
Oysters are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s have been shown to boost blood flow, which is always helpful, especially for blokes.
The power of suggestion
Oysters have been referred to as one of nature’s great aphrodisiacs for centuries. However, aphrodisiacs aren’t well-defined from a scientific perspective; they’re more urban legend than hard science. There is little evidence to suggest they make sex more appealing or enjoyable.
But maybe it is our beliefs about certain foods that contribute more to any sexual effects than the specific goodies they contain. Oysters are an aphrodisiac because we’re told they are, and an idea is a powerful stimulant. So, if you believe raw oysters are an aphrodisiac, then that thought, accompanied by a few juicy raw oysters, may very well stimulate the occasion.
So, go ahead, and make your day. Order a couple of dozen and call them an aphrodisiac.
Are oysters actually an aphrodisiac?
The answer for us is a resounding probably. While they may not necessarily contain some magic power that’ll enhance your sex drive, they do have some real benefits for your well-being and contain essential nutrients necessary for a thriving libido. And that’s got to be good for you.
The oyster of choice
Thanks to our careful husbandry and intelligent market selection, our plump Pacific oysters have become the oyster of choice in the Auckland restaurant scene and are exported in large numbers to Pacific Rim countries.
Feel free to contact us directly should you want more information. As a family business, we are very proud of what we produce and sell – and we only sell the best.
