Is asparagus aphrodisiac? Some say its long, fibrous shaft makes the answer obvious. Maybe we should stop calling it just asparagus and start calling it aphrodisiac asparagus.
All jokes aside (or maybe not), The Vegetarian Society claims that eating asparagus for three consecutive days delivers the strongest aphrodisiac effect. They even suggest hand-feeding it to your lover, calling it the “aphrodisiac vegetable of passion.”
Of course, if you follow this plan, you might end up with some oddly scented pee. That’s the main reason I hear people hesitate to indulge. But let’s be real—unless you make a habit of announcing your bathroom habits, who’s going to know?
Why is asparagus an aphrodisiac?
Asparagus’s aphrodisiac reputation goes beyond its shape—though its suggestive form likely started the rumors. This low-calorie, high-nutrient vegetable supports hormone production, making it a worthy addition to your diet.
Its sensual reputation dates back centuries. The French, in particular, have long regarded asparagus as a powerful aphrodisiac. During the Renaissance, it was even forbidden in convents, according to Temptations by Ellen and Michael Albertson. By the 1800s, French bridegrooms were instructed to eat course after course of asparagus the night before their wedding, as it was believed to guarantee arousal on the honeymoon.
Did you know that asparagus contains protein? A one-cup serving of cooked asparagus has over 4 grams. While that’s not enough to fuel a full day, it contributes to the energy you need for a night of passion.
Protein is essential for both men and women, but men require more. And that’s not the only reason asparagus benefits men—more on that soon!
One of asparagus’s top nutrients is vitamin E, known for boosting hormone production and supporting skin health. Did you know that vitamin E is also called “the sex vitamin?”
Another benefit? Fiber. A one-cup serving delivers 14% of your daily fiber intake, and fiber plays a role in a healthy, sexy body. It even makes our 10 Steps to Sexy Diet.
Asparagus nutrition facts
A one-cup serving of cooked fresh asparagus provides:
- Calories: 38
- Protein: 4.25g
- Fiber: 4.14g
- Vitamin K: 80 mcg
- Folate: 84.6 mcg
- Vitamin A: 70.2 mcg
- Vitamin C: 9.18 mg
- Vitamin E: 2.18 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.158 mg
- Potassium: 391 mg
- Iron: 4.12 mg
- Zinc: 1.04 mg
- Selenium: 4.5 mcg
Benefits for women
Asparagus is a great source of folate, essential for women trying to conceive. (A one-cup serving of fresh asparagus will provide over 20% of the daily value for this vital nutrient.) Folate also supports a healthy pregnancy, though expecting mothers should consult their doctor before relying on asparagus as a primary source.
Additionally, a serving of asparagus is a source of vitamin B6, which helps balance hormones and may ease PMS symptoms.
Benefits for men
Men also benefit from asparagus’s folate content, but its impact on heart health and sexual performance is even more impressive.
Asparagus is rich in potassium, which relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation—important for heart health and maintaining an erection.
One Japanese study found that a compound in asparagus reduced hypertension in rats by acting as an ACE inhibitor. More research is needed, but this could mean better blood flow to sexual organs.
Asparagus is also a source of selenium, manganese, and zinc—key nutrients for men’s sexual health.
Recipes
Now that you know the benefits of asparagus, it’s time to start cooking. Here are a couple of favorite recipes:
Asparagus & Ricotta Toast
Fennel, Asparagus & Artichoke Empanadas
Discover more of the world’s greatest aphrodisiacs
This article was written in 2010 and most recently updated in March 2025.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It should not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here are not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional. More information
Amy is considered a leading authority on aphrodisiacs. Her work in aphrodisiacs is quoted in publications including National Geographic, The New York Times, Epicurious, Wine Enthusiast, Health and Playboy magazines. She speaks internationally on aphrodisiac foods and has brought her knowledge of aphrodisiac history and science to national television shows including The Today Show and CBS Early Show. She is a frequent guest on relationship and lifestyle radio and podcast shows and has been interviewed by BBC and NPR radio, Cosmopolitan radio and popular podcasts including My Dad Wrote a Porno.
Amy is also a freelance food, wine and health researcher and writer as well as a wine competition judge. Her work has appeared in publications ranging from Variety to The Daily Meal. She is an MSN content provider. And she is also a former wine editor for Gayot.com and wine & spirits editor of Las Vegas magazine.
Fun fact: Amy was the creator of the first ever comprehensive food and wine apps, Amy Reiley's Pocket Gourmet and Amy Reiley's Pocket Vineyard for Palm.
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