Tuber Tale
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Both potatoes and truffles have been reported as having aphrodisiac qualities.
Details
Potatoes were initially thought to have aphrodisiac qualities. Truffles are still believed to be aphrodisiacs.
In Europe in the 16th Century, potatoes were considered aphrodisiacs as their consumption led to a general feeling of well-being and increased energy. This, in turn, could lead to an increase in libido. It is also reported that foods considered rare or exotic, such as potatoes in Europe in the 16th Century, were often hailed as having aphrodisiac qualities. Once these foods were readily available, they lost their special attributes.
Truffles are still considered to be an aphrodisiac due to their aroma. Truffles contain a pheromone androstanol that is attractive to men in particular. It is also highly attractive to pigs, so pigs were initially used to hunt for truffles. Truffles are also considered rare and exotic, so like the 16th-century potato in Europe, this enhances their aphrodisiac qualities.
Some scientific evidence supports the truffle's claim to aphrodisiac properties, but not the potatoes.
