Eating mango to enhance male virility, popularized by an episode of Seinfeld several years back, has become somewhat of a myth in the Western world. It turns out, however, that the use of mango for this purpose dates back hundreds of years in parts of Southeast Asia, and there may be some truth to the legend.
Mangoes have been around for thousands of years, and are thought to have originated in Burma and Eastern India. These brightly-colored tropical treasures are widely known as the “king of fruits.” Throughout Southeast Asia, it was historically considered a status symbol to have mango groves on one’s property.
Aside from symbolizing high society, mangoes are also synonymous with male sexual vitality across Southeast Asia and India. In fact, they are often prescribed in these countries to men who complain of impotence and other sexual issues. One myth describes the mango flower as cupid’s arrow, and the fruit nectar as having the qualities of a potent aphrodisiac.
From a scientific standpoint, there is evidence to support the notion that mangoes can have an aphrodisiac and virility-enhancing effect. These fruits are high in vitamin E, which is sometimes referred to as the “sex vitamin.”
Besides its well-known role in skin health, vitamin E has been linked to balancing sex hormones, which can result in a higher sex drive for both men and women. For men, vitamin E may also help to increase sperm count and enhance the sperm’s ability to swim.
Another way in which mangoes may help in the bedroom is the presence of vitamins A and C, both powerful antioxidants that have been linked to slowing the effects of aging. As mango can make you look and feel more youthful and vibrant, it can naturally make men and women alike feel more confident and sexy. The sweet flavor and succulent texture may also summon erotic tendencies in some people.
Whether you enjoy them for their aphrodisiac qualities or not, mangoes are remarkably healthy. Besides vitamins A and C, they also contain a range of B-vitamins, fiber, copper, potassium, magnesium and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, they contain the antioxidants quercetin and astragalin, which can help to prevent a range of chronic illnesses.
All in all, this is one fruit that definitely deserves a place on your plate, and maybe even served on your bedside nightstand.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.bodyenlightenment.me/blog/2008/03/raw-aphrodisiacs-foods-that-put-you-in-the-mood
http://eatsomethingsexy.com/wordpress/aphrodisiac-foods/mango
http://www.livestrong.com/article/294570-what-are-the-benefits-of-vitamin-e-regarding-sexual-activity-for-men
http://preventdisease.com/news/13/051713_17-Reasons-Why-You-Need-a-Mango-Every-Day.shtml
http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/mango.html
http://www.philstar.com/health-and-family/2012-06-26/821274/mangoes-boost-sex-drive