Over the centuries, certain fare and beverages have been linked to hail aphrodisiac qualities, in which they contribute to increasing sexual desire and improving sexual performance. Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of sexual love and beauty, supposedly came from the sea, thus the explanation as to why some seafood (oysters) is an aphrodisiac. At one point the Food and Drug Administration offered a statement claiming there was no ‘scientific data’ to support aphrodisiacs affecting one’s sex drive. Whether or not aphrodisiac food or drink improves your love life is unknown unless you try, so, take a chance and indulge on sinful delights this Valentine's Day.

A list of edibles to motivate your senses along with some non-edibles—a little lingerie never hurt anyone.

Begins with C

• Cayenne pepper chilies are a potent aphrodisiac.
• Celery seeds are what make celery a celebrated aphrodisiac.
• Chickpeas for men serve to be an almighty aphrodisiac.
• Chili, which contains a considerable amount of vitamin C, releases plenty of endorphins and stimulates circulation.
• Chocolate is 'sexy' eating as it releases endorphins, the 'feel good' chemicals into the brain. Satisfy taste buds with Godiva All Hearts G Collection ($45, godiva.com ); chocolate-filled gourmet treats containing hints of habanero pepper, Tasmanian honey and Thai coconut milk. If you’re not a fan of candy, spice up a glass of brandy with a pinch of Chocolate Love Aphrodisiac Love Tincture ($16.95, isabellacatalog.com ).
• Cloves are very sturdy in the world of natural aphrodisiacs.

Begins with G

• Garlic is superb for energy and gives strength to men.
• Ginger in cocktails awakens the senses.
• Ginseng as a plant is robust hormonal stimulant and gives people plenty of sexual energy to last quite a while.
• Grapes along with wine ignite playful senses, and when combined with chocolate, in wine filled truffles by Red Envelope ($25, redenvelope.com ), they offer twice the impact.

Oysters and caviar are two classic aphrodisiacs. Oysters are rich in phosphorus, iodine and zinc, elements that increase the sexual health for both males and females. Sturgeon eggs contain a hefty mix of phosphorous and vitamins.

Vanilla's scent by its lonesome is a sexual stimulant. A few drops of vanilla essence (extracted from real vanilla beans) make for a pleasurable soak. If you prefer an edible, try Vanilla Custard or Dannon’s Light & Fit Vanilla Yogurt ($0.79).

Lingerie

• Enrapture by Wonderbra Convertible Halter ($30) & G-String ($10, hanes.com )
• OnGossamer Everyday Pretty Lace Bump-It-Up Bra ($55) & Bikini ($24, Bloomingdales.com )
• OnGossamer Shimmer Mesh & Lace Bralette ($40) & Hip Thong ($20, also at bloomingdales.com)
• Victoria’s Secret Pink Bra ($28.50) & Panty ($9.50, vspink.com )