Throughout the ages, men have known that the way to a woman’s heart is little gentle flattery. Compliments, they knew, were the lubricants of successful encounters with the opposite sex.

Now, the latest research shows, women need to be complimented five times a day — minimum.

According to a survey carried out by Loire Valley White Wines, nine out of ten women say they love to be complimented. However, only 16 percent thought they received their five a day. Two-thirds thought they were being complimented less than they were five years ago, and believed gentle flattery was becoming a lost art.

Modern feminism seems to have a lot to answer for, because 21st-century men assume a compliment will cause offence. On the other side of the track, most women are highly likely to suspect the motives of anyone offering an admiring comment.

Relationship expert Christine Webber says, “In my experience, women do care a great deal about what people think about them. A compliment massively boosts self-esteem. And while it may seem frivolous, it is in fact a vital ingredient for well-being.”

She adds that many men are terrified of an innocent remark being wrongly interpreted. “I think political correctness and fear of saying the wrong thing is the main cause of men failing to compliment women who are not their partners.”

As many as 81 percent wanted to be complimented on their hair or clothing, while 79 percent longed to hear they are stylish, and 73 percent that they looked slimmer.

Webber added, “We have busy lives and people tend to assume a lot and forget to say things. And yet compliments can act like oil in an engine — they help everything to run smoother. Couples who give frequent compliments to one another tend to treat each other with courtesy and respect and that helps keep their relationships alive.”