Eastern aphrodisiacs for Valentine's Day

Deer penis wine

This brutal-tasting energy drink, known for its aphrodisiac qualities and ability to efficiently heal fitness injuries, is extracted in the same vein; older generations claim that to retain its properties, the penis must be severed from a live deer. Imperial Restaurant, Lobby G, #03-08 VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk (6337 0491). $30 per glass, $63.80 per bottle.

Hejie jiu (lizard wine)

Preferably poisonous, a gecko is soaked in your choice of base, and left for any length of time ranging from ten days to a year. Taken in a shot glass, proprietor Kwong Onn Tong claims that the drink develops better blood circulation – and therefore a longer and stronger erection. Kwong Onn Herbal, 14-16 Trengganu St (6222 8129). $12 for a pair of geckos.

Seahorses

Used in traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for kidney ailments and circulatory problems, the seahorse is also used to treat impotence and considered a powerful aphrodisiac. Larger-sized seahorses are better for increasing sexual prowess. Bee’s Brand Bird’s Nest & Health Products Pte Ltd, 64-66 Smith St (6224 5691). Medium seahorses: $25 per qian, large seahorses: $40 per qian.

Jamu

First discovered in Indonesia centuries ago, this herbal concoction made of spices and sometimes animal parts (the exact blend remains a mystery) is traditionally sold in sachets in Malaysia and Indonesia and served as a brew. There are more than a hundred different blends of this libido enhancer and remedy for infertility. At the Indonesia Jamu Centre, the Pria Perkasa (‘Men’s Strength’) capsules are the most popular. To be taken once a day, proponents have claimed that jamu also wards off chronic ailments and strengthen the immune system. Indonesian Jamu Centre, #01-70 Parkway Parade, 80 Marine Parade Rd (6348 2875). $55/60 capsules.

‘Concubine Gui Fei’ Plum Juice

Named after Tang Dynasty’s Emperor Xuanzong’s famous concubine, this drink claims to give men a ‘royal aura’. Made from boiled ebony and hawthorn, the result is then filtered and boiled with herbs like sweet-osmanthus and liquorice, apples and red jujube or dates. Served cold, the herbal concoction is said to alleviate stress and increase male testosterones by decreasing aromatase enzyme which affects the testosterone and estrogenic ratio giving men added strength and a more youthful and radiant glow. Yang Gui Fei, 18 Smith St (6100 0629). $3.80/jug.

Tongkat Ali

Loosely translated as ‘Ali’s walking stick’, this native Malaysian and Indonesian root has its proverbial reach in the hearts and pants of men. Tongkat Ali (binomial name: eurycoma longifolia) has been heavily researched – independent studies conducted all over the world (from Malaysia to Italy) have found that its properties have increased sperm count and sexual performance. At the medical store in Joo Chiat Complex, Tongkat Ali is sold in capsules and includes different blends of herbal properties. Al Barakah, Blk 1, #01-1039/1041 Joo Chiat Complex (6743 1804). $7-20/60 capsules.