Even at 84 pages, Indian Aphrodisiacs by Dr Bhagwan Dash and Suhasini Ramaswamy is a very padded book. There is a lot of irrelevant information on arranged marriages, caste, etc. Half the space is taken up by reproductions of coy Indian miniatures. If these had been erotic they might have served some purpose. The authors tend to confuse impotency drugs with aphrodisiacs, two entirely different ball games. Aphrodisiacs are meant to increase sexual pleasure and desire in those who are already in a position to be aroused. People suffering from impotency are hardly in the same category.
The book enumerates substances and mixtures that help in arousal. The reputation of these supposed aphrodisiacs is based not upon scientific studies but upon folklore. Among the items listed are wine, camphor, sandalwood, saffron, hibiscus flower, nutmeg and methi. Methi? Some of you out there may wish to try out this recipe: "Milk boiled along with a goat's testicles, and flavoured with sesame seeds, makes an excellent aphrodisiac." Please, be my guest.
