If there is any truth to the claim that the smell of burning wood stimulates our libidos and appetites, then Southern Californians must have been fending off some powerful desires all week.

Though no scientific proof exists that certain foods and scents actually induce sexual drive or increase fertility, the lure of aphrodisiacs and herbal love potions remains an irresistible notion to many.

From the earthy aromas of wood-fired ovens and grated ginger to the lush flavors of raw oysters and pure chocolate, both ancient and modern “love doctors” swear by their ability to “arouse erections” and turn women into sexual predators.

Testimonies and tales vary wildly. An Islamic myth, for example, relays that after Adam and Eve succumbed to the apple, they started covering their genitals with banana leaves, which may have led to the popularity of the banana as an aphrodisiac food, hence its superb phallic shape. But nutritionists cite a more practical explanation, saying that bananas are rich in potassium and B vitamins, which aid in the production of sex hormones.

And there’s more good news for herbivores. The Vegetarian Society claims that asparagus delivers the most powerful sexual punch on humans when eaten for three days in a row. And the next time you reach for that supple avocado, keep in mind that you’re eating from what the Aztecs called “testicle trees.” The ancients believed that because the fruit hung in pairs, young boys who consumed them would develop into strong and virile men. Pass the guacamole, please!

The arguments that demystify cultural views about consumable aphrodisiacs are all too obvious when you consider that many of these foods resemble sexual body parts — or are the actual sex organs of animals. Eating the penises of goats, rabbits and other livestock in certain Eastern cultures has been associated with the procreation of male offspring.

Conversely, some skeptics have been heard validating the so-called magic of chilies and curries, which raise the heart rate slightly and cause sweating — two reactions we hope our partners will achieve during sex. Chocolate isn’t easily dismissed either, as a veritable aphrodisiac. Recent studies have shown it contains chemicals that affect the neurotransmitters in the brain, which may quite possibly lead to the release of a few extra endorphins in our bodies.

Below is a list of foods that may result in an “all-nighter” after a romantic dinner — or else do nothing more except put you back into the hands of fate for finding that ultimate sexual experience.

Figs: Throughout southern Europe, a man breaking open a fig in front of a woman increased his chances of seducing her. It’s yet to be seen, however, if the tactic works among lesbians.

Carrots: They were used for centuries as a stimulant for males among Middle Eastern royalty — when eaten, that is.

Garlic: Despite the way it drives people away when it sits on your breath, the “heat” from raw garlic is said to get the juices flowing in either sex.

Ginger root: Nutritionists claim that when eaten raw it stimulates the circulatory system and turns a typical roll in the hay into something rather special.

Nutmeg: It was a highly prized spice among Chinese women of the 15th century, who used it expressly as an aphrodisiac.

Truffles: The Greeks and Romans reportedly sniffed the musty scent of these fungi to stimulate and sensitize the skin to touch.

Vanilla: Pump it through your home’s ventilation system and turn your visitors into lusty houseguests.

Pineapple: South Pacific folklore shows it was used to treat impotence. Modern-day love seekers say it works much better in rum drinks.

Red wine: Provided you and your love interest drink it moderately, studies are showing that popular reds such as pinot noir, merlot and cabernet can lead you on a straight-line walk to the bedroom after dinner.