It seems as though our culture has forgotten the importance ofpre-sex. We have fallen into the habit of just jumping in the sackto satisfy our needs as quickly as possible.

But where’s the build up? The intensity, the teasing andthe foreplay make sex so much more exciting and eruptive.

There once was a time when people searched for ways to enhancesexual desire, sexual health and sexual techniques through acomplete sensory experience.

One way is through the aphrodisiac. The term aphrodisiac isderived from the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, who was theepitome of sexual desire. Aphrodisiacs are usually foods or drugsthat are used to enhance sexual arousal and desire. Foods, plants,drugs, animal parts; it has all been tried.

Asparagus is thought to be one of the most erotic members of thevegetable family. It has a reputation of bearing arousingpowers. Celery contains androsterone, a powerful male hormonethat attracts females and researchers believe it is releasedthrough sweat. Women also become aroused by the scent of cucumbers.So guys, maybe eating your greens isn’t as awful as when youwere eight.

Onions have been used as an aphrodisiac for thousands of years.Aside from the bad breath one may get, it restores sexual vigor anddesire.

Even spices can serve as an aphrodisiac. Saffron is expensive,but it is reputed to work like a sex hormone and make erogenouszones even more sensitive. Nutmeg is used to prolong sex anddesire.

One common misunderstanding is that chocolate serves as anaphrodisiac.Chocolate has a sensual and very pleasurabletaste. This I have no argument over. However, chocolate is soenjoyable that if used erotically, it takes away from the sexualpleasure. Try using another form of sweet such as caramel orwhipped cream.Or try a sensuous fruit that serves as anaphrodisiac; strawberries, mango and grapes will do the trick.

Go the more sensual route and use touch as a sexualarouser.Giving and receiving a massage can do wonders. Setthe pace and the mood with some rubbing action; soft and delicateor firm and passionate. Use your hands as a sexual organ. Latherscented oils into the skin to make the experience more gratifying.Some aphrodisiac oils to consider would be cedar wood, cinnamon,cloves, neroli, patchouli, rose, sandalwood, ylang-ylang andvanilla. If you are intending to massage the genitals as well, besure to use a water-based oil or lubricant.

Even smells can give rise to your sex drive. Pun intended. Useperfume or cologne as an expression of your emotions.Musk,oriental and floral perfumes are common turn-ons. When applying,the golden rule is to put it on your pulse points or sensual areaswhere you want to be kissed.

Although sight and sound are not usually considered to beaphrodisiacs, they can certainly be used as a means ofsensuality. Appearing well-groomed and sexy will get younoticed. Some may have tunnel vision and interpret this as meencouraging superficiality, but the truth is that being attractiveand taking care of your appearance is important to the oppositesex.

Seduce your partner with sexy clothes, a strip tease or a lapdance to entertain his or her eyes (and other vital organs). Put onsome erotic music in the background.Some sounds have asuggestive rhythm such as a heartbeat.Others may have acrescendo to assist in the rise and climax of sex.

So why settle for the same old boring routine time and timeagain? Instead of always trying to find a quick fix, as weAmericans have become so accustomed to, slow it down and enjoy themany smells, tastes, sounds, sights and touches of sex.

Does asparagus fail to arouse you? Share your sensualexperiences at

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