Strawberries Aphrodisiac & Sexual Benefits

Are strawberries an aphrodisiac?

A perfect little red heart, the aphrodisiac strawberry is an edible valentine. Not surprisingly, strawberries have a long history as an aphrodisiac food. In ancient Rome, the strawberry was a symbol of Venus. And in the French countryside, there was once a tradition of serving newlyweds cold strawberry soup to help promote honeymoon romance.

TO TRY: Strawberry Rhubarb Deep Dish Tart

Is strawberry the sexiest fruit?

Based on the amount of lore I could find linking strawberries and sex, you would think this is the most aphrodisiac fruit of them all. And who can dispute the sensuality of this member of the rose family? (In case you were wondering, raspberries and blackberries are also related to roses.)

In medieval Europe, strawberries were considered a symbol of good living. At the time, it was thought that the fruit had to be cooked to reap the benefits. And so it was boiled with spices to make a sort of jam.

At one point, it was decided that strawberries were surely aphrodisiacs because the crimson fruit wears its seeds on the outside. This might be my favorite reason for considering strawberries as aphrodisiac fruits.

But if you like that one, here’s another great tale of strawberry lore for you:

I don’t know how much truth there is in the matter but I recently heard a charming story about the use of wild strawberries. Apparently, there is a Bavarian practice of tying baskets of wild strawberries to the horns of cattle as an offering to elves. The elves, in return, ensure that the cows would soon bear healthy calves.

It’s a bit of a ménage a trois from an aphrodisiac perspective, but then, who doesn’t get turned on in the presence of wild strawberries?

But folklore is not the only reason we associate strawberries and sex. Among the many gifts of this pretty and lightly sweet fruit are nutritional benefits that may help keep the body in prime form for sex.

Strawberry nutrition for sex

From a nutritional standpoint, there’s plenty to love about strawberries. And there are many nutritional benefits to help define them as aphrodisiacs.

A source of vitamin C

For starters, the hefty dose of vitamin C strawberries serve up may increase blood flow. (A one-cup serving of strawberries offers more than 100% of the daily value of this important vitamin.) Good blood flow not only helps to make for a healthy heart. Without good blood flow, sexual arousal and climax aren’t possible.

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By the way, vitamin C is also thought to promote the production of estrogen. And this isn’t the only benefit strawberries provide for women’s health. In fact, strawberries make our list of the 10 Best Foods for Women.

Nutrition for libido and fertility

In addition, strawberries contain several minerals known to support a healthy sex drive, including magnesium and potassium. The fruit is also a source of folate. Although folate won’t increase sexual desire, it is noted as one of the most important nutrients for couples trying to conceive.

Strawberries also contain several antioxidants beyond vitamin C that are linked to heart health. And without a strong heart, sexual arousal and performance become difficult.

How to serve this aphrodisiac fruit

As far as I’m concerned, one of the most aphrodisiac qualities of strawberries is that these fruits are perfect shape and size for dipping in chocolate. This makes them ideal as a simple tool of seduction. To make aphrodisiac chocolate-covered strawberries, warm milk or cream to a simmer. Remove it from heat and gently fold in premium, dark chocolate. Serve it warm as a chocolate fondue.

One of my favorite ways to use strawberries is tossing them in balsamic vinegar, as they are used in this strawberry-topped almond cake recipe.

Strawberry shortcake is one of my favorite desserts featuring aphrodisiac strawberries. Serve with ample whipped cream behind a locked bedroom door.

More recipes

Warm Strawberry Crumb Cake

Greek Yogurt, Lemon and Chia Seed Biscuits with Strawberries

Strawberry Rhubarb Deep Dish Tart

No-Bake Cheesecake with Strawberry and Basil

North & South Bourbon Cocktail

Discover more of the world’s greatest aphrodisiac foods

Strawberry photo by Artur Rutkowski

This article was written in 2010 and most recently updated in January 2022.

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Amy Reiley

An award-winning author of five aphrodisiac cookbooks with an MA in Gastronomy, Amy Reiley has spent the past 18 years studying the history and science behind aphrodisiac foods. She speaks on aphrodisiacs globally and has brought her knowledge of aphrodisiac foods to national television shows including The Today Show and CBS Early Show. Amy is also a freelance food, wine and health writer and wine competition judge. Her work has appeared in publications ranging from Variety to The Daily Meal. She is a former wine editor for Gayot.com and wine & spirits editor of Las Vegas magazine. Most importantly, Amy is a mother to 2 human children and 1 standard poodle.

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