Tequila shots and clumsy kisses across barstools can happen any time. But, Valentine’s Day brings an opportunity to really impress someone with whom you want to get drunk and naked! Awaken arousal in your object of desire with ingredients thought to heighten sexual anticipation, known as aphrodisiacs, in honor of the Greek Goddess of Love, Aphrodite, and many people use these to improve their relationship, along with other accessories and toys to play from stores PlugLust online. Add music, a little ice and lubricate your love connection with these aphrodisiac cocktails. Here are a few ideas for your love potions: Chocolate: Cocoa and chocolate contain phenylethylamine, the love chemical, which releases dopamine, causing a rise in blood pressure, increased heart rate and a euphoric rush similar to feeling in love. Oysters: Beyond their creamy texture and burst of salty ocean flavor, oysters also have high levels of zinc, thought to help produce sperm, boost testosterone and stimulate the libido in men and women. Their briny aroma is also similar to female pheromones, or subliminal animal scents, women emit to attract mates. Roses: In ancient times, the petals from these offerings of love were mashed into tinctures or macerated into oils and used to restore emotional connection, cure impotence, and curb sexual frigidness. And, as any skilled courtesan knows, the smell of fresh roses enhances any enticing boudoir. Cinnamon: Considered a “heat” producing spice, cinnamon is in many exotic sweet and savory dishes. Studies show that it increases the appetite, both physical and sexual. It is even believed that a drop of cinnamon oil rubbed onto the genitals can produce powerful sexual stimulation. Ginger: Pickled, juiced, or raw, ginger is a digestive aid, which also increases circulation, heightening sensitivity in the body’s erogenous zones. It is rumored that Madame du Barry, mistress to French King Louis XV in the 1700s, used ginger to lull the monarch into a state of sexual euphoria and submissiveness. Spicy Pepper: Have you ever taken a bite of a chile that was so hot it made you sweat? That is just the beginning of how hot peppers rev up the metabolism and release endorphins. Red or green - load ‘em up! Champagne: No Valentine’s list is complete without the libation of love. As if tickling tiny bubbles weren’t enough, the carbonation helps to rapidly deliver alcohol throughout the body. And, like oysters, dry sparkling wines replicate female pheromones. Is it true? Who cares! Bring on the bubbly! Pants On FireI originally created a nonalcoholic version of this drink for the “baby making” section of my booze-free mocktail book Preggatinis: Mixology for the Mom-To-Be, for hopeful parents wanting a little boost in the bedroom. However, for the rest of us, adding spiced rum sets the mood. ¾ ounce fresh ginger juice¾ ounce Thai-chile infused simple syrup2 ounces pineapple juice1 ½ ounces spiced rum½ ounce grenadineGarnish: 1 Thai chili Shake juices, syrup and rum with ice. Strain into a martini glass. Slowly drizzle in the grenadine so it can sink to the bottom of the glass, creating a layered effect. Garnish with a red or green chili. Bouquet of RoseThis sparkling cocktail is like presenting your loved one with a bunch of flowers… only he / she can drink it! I first created this drink for Domaine Carneros’ launch of their sparkling rose brut, several years ago but have adapted it slightly for an aphrodisiac Valentine’s celebration. 1 ounce rose water (at gourmet stores)½ ounce cinnamon simple syrup4 ounces dry ChampagneGarnish: a chocolate-dipped strawberry Pour all ingredients into a champagne flute or coupe. Serve with strawberry as an edible garnish. *Cinnamon simple syrup: 1 cup sugar, ½ cup water, 2-3 cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, stirring often. Cool. Store for several weeks. Ultimate Uni Oyster SlutI’ll admit it – I’m a sushi slut. Put raw fish in front of me, and I’m like Meg Ryan in “that scene” of When Harry Met Sally. This salty, briny, juicy shot is sure to set the mood. Sip it, suck it or swallow it whole. 1 shucked, plump oyster1 uni (sea urchin)1 teaspoon lemon juice1 ounce sakedash Tabascoa dot of wasabi Place oyster and uni in a small rocks glass. Pour in all liquids and top with the wasabi.