The aphrodisiac history of honey

Also called the nectar of Aphrodite, honey is one of the most seductive foods in the world. Sticky, viscous, deliciously sweet, it is as much a sensual experience as it is a delicious indulgence.

What most honey lovers don’t realize is that this liquid gold’s finest property is in its variety. What do I mean? Well, you see there are styles of this viscous sweetener to suit every mood. In fact, experts say that there are as many variations of honey as there are styles of wine. In flavor and body, honeys run from bold and thick as molasses to soft and creamy as butter. Some honeys are as rich as maple syrup and perfect for pancakes. While others are as aromatic as a bouquet of spring wildflowers.

Honey’s history and lore

And there are almost as many legends about honey’s aphrodisiac powers as there are varieties of this sweet syrup. It is traditionally offered at Indian weddings to symbolize the sweetness of life. In addition, the word honeymoon stems from a wish for a sweet marriage. Furthermore, this viscous liquid gold was used by many cultures as a symbol of fertility. And it often symbolized more than fertility. In some cultures it was linked with sex. In fact, Hippocrates, the famed Greek physician, prescribed it for sexual vigor. He was also fond of recommending a drink of milk and honey to induce sexual ecstasy.

The nutritional link

Honey provides a quick shot of natural sugar. But beyond its ability to provide fast energy, it contains about 2% vitamins and minerals essential to sexual health. One of those key components is boron, a nutrient believed to regulate hormones. Most interestingly to those who believe honey is linked to sexual vigor, it just so happens that it increases nitric oxide, which is released in the blood stream during arousal.

Even in manufacturing, honey’s lore is pure romance. Culled by honeybees, it is created from the nectar of flowers, the ultimate emblem of sexual ripeness.

Photo by Zsuzsanna Kilian.

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