Arugula has been known for many things. First and foremost, it’s prized for its delightful peppery taste.
This flavor has made it a beloved addition in salads around the world. It’s also appeared sprinkled atop piping hot pizzas and in nutritious smoothies.
But one particularly interesting fact about arugula is that it has been reputed to be an aphrodisiac for centuries. When you start to get into why arugula is an aphrodisiac, it gets interesting.
Read on, and we’ll share what we found with you.
Quick Answer: Why is Arugula an Aphrodisiac?
Arugula has been considered an aphrodisiac for a long time. You can trace this image all the way back to Ancient Rome, where poets and authors wrote about its stimulating properties.
Read Also: What Does Arugula Taste Like?
Where Arugula’s Reputation Came From
As you know already, arugula’s saucy reputation comes from Ancient Roman times. In the first century, a legendary poet by the name of Virgil wrote about arugula as a stimulant, writing that it “revives drowsy Venus.” (Venus was a delicate and poetic way of referring to desire.)
Romans believed that the stimulating properties of arugula were so potent, the plant was actually banned in monastery gardens. It wouldn’t be until the ninth century that Charlemagne wrote of it in a more neutral manner, stating it was a great choice for gardens.
Related Article: Does Arugula Need to be Thinned?
Is Arugula Actually an Aphrodisiac?
Truthfully, the jury is still out on this one. Many believe even today that it is, although there isn’t truly a decisive study showing one way or the other.
Also Read: Does Arugula Regrow After Cutting?
Some people think that arugula has mentally clarifying properties that contribute to a better mood. Obviously, you’ll be much more inclined to romance if you’re just feeling better all-around.
There’s also a study which indicated that a diet of arugula boosted testosterone levels in mice. Mice are not people, however, and we weren’t able to find a study showing the same thing occurring in humans.
Related Article: Why Does Arugula Turn Yellow?
Health Benefits of Arugula
While it’s not definitive whether arugula is an aphrodisiac or not, it is definitive that it has plenty of other health benefits to offer to you.
To start with, it has a decent amount of calcium in it, which is wonderful for your bones. Potassium is another thing arugula has in spades, a nutrient well known for contributing to muscle health.
Also Read: Does Arugula Need to be Refrigerated?
You can also find a trio of essential vitamins in arugula: C, K, and A. Vitamin C, as you probably know, is an antioxidant that boosts your immune system. Vitamin A is another vitamin that supports your immune system.
There is even a study showing that arugula has cancer-fighting qualities. The study found that erucin, which is found in arugula, can help combat the growth of tumor cells.
Related Article: Does Arugula Need Fertilizer?
Wrap Up
Arugula may or may not be an aphrodisiac. However, there are a plethora of other healthy advantages that give you ample reason to incorporate this green into your diet. These advantages include necessary vitamins and nutrients that your body will thank you for.
Even if arugula had nothing to offer other than its taste, though, we feel like it would be enough. Its piquant and peppery flavor can make any lackluster recipe into an experience.
You Might Also Like: Does Arugula Need Light to Germinate?
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
