Translation guide
A substance or food believed to increase sexual desire. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the loanword 媚薬 (biyaku), but there are also traditional terms and euphemisms.
Referring to any substance, drug, or food that arouses sexual desire.
The standard Japanese word for aphrodisiac. It can refer to both real and fictional love potions.
Talking about specific foods or ingredients thought to boost libido.
A common phrase meaning 'food that gives you stamina/vitality'. Often used euphemistically for aphrodisiac foods.
English often uses 'aphrodisiac' as an adjective (e.g., 'aphrodisiac properties'), but Japanese does not have a direct adjective form. Instead, use phrases like 媚薬効果 (aphrodisiac effect) or 精力がつく (gives stamina).
彼は彼女に媚薬を盛った。
He slipped her an aphrodisiac.
This herb is said to have aphrodisiac effects.
A more clinical or technical term for an aphrodisiac, literally 'sexual arousal agent'. Used in medical or formal contexts.
The use of aphrodisiacs is prohibited by law.
Literally 'love potion' or 'infatuation drug'. Often used in folklore, fantasy, or historical contexts.
The witch made a love potion.
Oysters are famous as an aphrodisiac food.
A more formal way to say 'food with tonic/strengthening effects', often used in health contexts.
This supplement contains foods with aphrodisiac properties.