Spoil yourself (and your partner) by nourishing your body, mind, and love life with tantalizing foods and titillating cannabis strains paired together in sensual harmony.
We’ve taken 12 common foods that are considered aphrodisiacs, or “love boosters,” and recommended a strain of cannabis to pair with each one. Try a few of these strain pairings for flavor, but don’t be afraid to couple these foods and recipes with other strains known for their own aphrodisiac qualities.
1. Fresh Chili Peppers
These spicy peppers contain capsaicin, which has shown to increase circulation and blood flow and stimulate nerve endings.
Pair with: OG Kush. This classic hybrid, known for its earthy flavor and euphoric effects, is the perfect mate to the spicy goodness of the chili pepper.
2. Pomegranate
Pomegranates are full of antioxidants that keep the blood pumping and blood flow strong.
Pair with: Green Crack. The energetic and invigorating buzz from this fruity, tangy sativa makes it a superb match for the stimulating effects of pomegranate and is sure to help keep you going all day (or all night) long.
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3. Bananas
Adding to their suggestive appearance, this fruit is bursting with potassium, an essential mineral for muscle strength and contractions.
Pair with: Blue Dream. Another classic hybrid, Blue Dream’s calming yet euphoric effects blend naturally with the potent nutrients found in bananas.
4. Avocado
Avocados are loaded with vitamin E, which is needed to make the hormones that stimulate sexual responses.
Pair with: Tangerine. The fruity flavor and aroma of this sativa-dominant hybrid, along with its uplifting and energetic effects, are sure to synchronize nicely with the stimulating effects of the avocado
5. Chocolate
This Valentine’s Day all-star contains phenyethylamine, a chemical that stimulates feelings of excitement and well-being.
Pair with: Chocolope. The sweet, yet earthy, coffee-like flavors and relaxing yet euphoric effects of this sativa make it the ideal companion to any dessert dish, especially chocolate.
6. Oysters
A little cliché, but these seductive bivalve mollusks have lots of zinc, a mineral that’s essential for testosterone production which can boost sex drive in men (not to mention their naturally provocative shape).
Pair with: Lemon Haze. Nothing goes better with fresh oysters then a little squeeze of lemon juice. No lemons? No problem! Try this uplifting sativa with its fresh-peeled-lemon scent, citrus flavor, and relaxing high.
7. Red Wine
Red wine is packed full of resveratrol, an antioxidant that increases blood flow and improves circulation. Moderation is key — too much alcohol can depress your system and lead to decreased sensitivity and lower blood flow.
Pair with: Raspberry Kush. The distinct raspberries and cream aroma, along with the palate-pleasing fruity flavor, makes this indica a wonderful counterpart to a glass of your favorite red wine.
8. Salmon
Salmon contains a plethora of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep sex hormone production at peak.
Pair with: Dutch Treat. The robust citrus bouquet of this potent and floral hybrid is sure to lift your mood while enticing the appetite.
9. Vanilla
This delicious bean is known to stimulate nerve endings and increase your body’s response to sensation — plus it smells good, too!
Pair with: Lavender. This savory and spicy indica creates a bold and beautiful balance when paired with the warming sweetness of vanilla.
10. Watermelon
This plump and juicy fruit is full of citrulline, a phytonutrient that relaxes blood vessels, allowing for increased circulation. In addition, watermelon is incredibly hydrating, making it the perfect pre- or post-exertion snack.
Pair with: Banana Kush. This legendary hybrid, with its alluring fragrance, distinctly fruity flavor, and blissful effects, will keep you in high spirits while enhancing your creativity and relieving stress.
11. Garlic
Don’t let the smell deter you — the compound allicin, found in garlic, is known to stimulate blood flow. Just make sure you and your partner are indulging together.
Pair with: Sour Diesel. The pungent and sharply sour essence of this world-renowned sativa helps creates a sense of equilibrium with the characteristic zest that garlic is known for.
12. Almonds
Historically, the aroma of almonds is said to “arouse passion.” However, it’s the vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber that really get the blood circulating and keep your muscles contracting.
Pair with: Mr. Nice. End your evening right with the heavy-hitting, high-flavor, mellow buzz of this indica marvel. Known for its mouthwatering sweetness, Mr. Nice will leave you feeling hungry, happy, and with high spirits.
Do aphrodisiac foods really work? Guess you’ll just have to eat up and find out for yourself! Be sure to check out the simple and easy recipes below for the perfect romantic dinner.
“Sensual Salmon”
Ingredients:
- 2 pieces wild-caught salmon
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 red or green chili pepper, chopped
- cannabis-infused cooking oil
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Spray a baking pan or lightly coat with olive oil.
- Mix chopped garlic and chilis with 1 Tbsp. olive oil in a small bowl.
- Place the salmon in the baking pan and top with the oil mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, until fish is tender and flaky.
- Bonus: Serve with your favorite red wine.
And for dessert…
Fresh Watermelon, Cannabis & Basil Martini
Directions:
- In a mixing glass, mash 1 C. of fresh watermelon with a spoon or fork until juicy.
- Mix in 2 oz. of your favorite vodka.
- Add 2 drops of your preferred cannabis-infused tincture.
- Pour into two chilled martini glasses and top with club soda.
- Garnish with fresh basil and/or cannabis leaves and serve cold.
