Is Chocolate Really an Aphrodisiac?

Chocolate is a great gift to give the person you love—and for more than just the taste. Chocolate has been considered to be an aphrodisiac for almost as long as there has been chocolate. But how much truth is there to this idea? It turns out that chocolate contains two main chemical compounds that may contribute to its aphrodisiac reputation.

The first compound is tryptophan, an amino acid. Tryptophan’s main benefit in contributing to an aphrodisiac effect is that it is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Excess tryptophan in the body is often converted into serotonin.

Serotonin has a large number of effects on the human body and brain, being linked to everything from digestion to bone and cardiovascular health, and even sleep patterns.

However, it is most well known for being a “happy” chemical, as it is one of several neurotransmitters that are related to happiness, joy, and increased feelings of general wellbeing. This means that consumption of tryptophan-rich foods, such as high-quality chocolate, can indeed help produce a feeling of joy and contentment. This can definitely help set the mood for a romantic evening.

The second compound is phenylethylamine, a biochemical that acts as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator. It functions as a mild stimulant, being chemically related to the amphetamine family. As it is a mild stimulant, it can help increase transmission of some neurotransmitters and generally provides a mild energy boost.

This is part of what makes chocolate a good ingredient in some types of trail mix when paired with dried fruits and nuts, along with its high energy content.

Together, these two biochemicals can contribute to increased feelings of contentment and happiness, and boost energy. It’s easy to see how those two effects could combine to make an aphrodisiac.

However, studies have shown that the combined effect of the two is insufficient to cause a significant aphrodisiac effect. Phenylethylamine in particular is not easily absorbed through digestion. Does that mean chocolate is not an aphrodisiac? Chemically speaking, it would appear not. But the biochemical effects of chocolate are only part of its contribution to love, and not its biggest. After all, no one eats chocolate for its chemical composition.

Cocoa butter is the base for all good quality chocolate and it is responsible for chocolate’s smooth texture. This texture is caused by the fact the cocoa butter has six different crystal stages and a melting point very close to human body temperature. This is the reason chocolate melts in your mouth, providing a sensual experience along with a culinary one. The soft smoothness of chocolate is a part of its appeal and also part of its historic connection to romance.

There is also the fact that chocolate is loved in its own right for its taste. Receiving a high-quality gift is always something people appreciate, and you can’t help but feel a little warmer to someone who puts in the time and effort to make you happy.

Finally, there is the fact that romance and appeal are psychological in nature. With its powerful reputation as an aphrodisiac, merely receiving a box of elegant, rich chocolates can send a strong message. Whether it is caused biochemical or simply psychologically, a gift of chocolates can definitely improve someone’s mood.

So, it appears that there may be little scientific basis for the aphrodisiac reputation of chocolate. However, its many other qualities add up to produce an ideal gift for that special someone regardless. The long association of chocolate and romance can do the work for you, provided you select the best chocolates you can.