Throughout history, certain foods have gained quite a reputation for being purveyors of lust. Oysters, chocolates, and strawberries—these are but some of the dietary basics every worthy lothario supposedly has in his kitchen. However, there is more to these aphrodisiacs than just their libido-raising properties.

Surprised? So were we until we found out that some aphrodisiacs became known not just because of their suggestive shape or texture, but because of their nutritional properties!

From what we could gather, some of these edible delights have the power to lower blood pressure while others are said to be the secret ingredient for happiness! Is your curiosity aroused? Then scroll through the gallery to learn more:

(Photo of oyster by John Bostock via Flickr Creative Commons; photo of chocolates by WoofBC via Flickr Creative Commons; photo of asparagus by Jason Jacobs via Flickr Creative Commons)