An aphrodisiac is a drug used to increase sexual desire. Traditionally, various foods and herbs are used for this purpose. Nowadays, corresponding drugs are also used.
What is an aphrodisiac?
An aphrodisiac is a substance that is used to increase sexual desire. An aphrodisiac is any substance that is used specifically to stimulate and increase the feeling of desire and has also been shown to have this effect. Agents that induce an erection or maintain it for a prolonged period of time are also considered aphrodisiacs.
Medical application, effect and use
Most traditional aphrodisiacs act mainly on the psychological level. Foods considered stimulating, hot spices or special plant preparations with alcohol are used to create a relaxed, pleasure-promoting atmosphere in which acting out sexuality is easier than in everyday life. Some of the remedies that have been widely used for centuries, such as asparagus, have a diuretic effect, which can affect sexual perception. Modern pharmaceutical preparations usually have a direct effect on the blood flow to the genitals. This can remedy erectile dysfunction in particular, but it is also possible to treat sexual aversion in women. Some drugs, such as cocaine, which have a general disinhibiting effect, are also used by some people as aphrodisiacs.
Herbal, natural, and pharmaceutical aphrodisiacs.
Most traditional aphrodisiacs act mainly on the psychological level. Foods considered stimulating, hot spices or special plant preparations with alcohol are used to create a relaxed, pleasure-promoting atmosphere in which acting out sexuality is easier than in everyday life. Some of the remedies that have been widely used for centuries, such as asparagus, have a diuretic effect, which can affect sexual perception. Modern pharmaceutical preparations usually have a direct effect on the blood flow to the genitals. This can remedy erectile dysfunction in particular, but it is also possible to treat sexual aversion in women. Some drugs, such as cocaine, which have a general disinhibiting effect, are also used by some people as aphrodisiacs. Those who wish to use an aphrodisiac have a wide range of options. The simplest, though most unsafe, method is to prepare foods considered to be aphrodisiacs. In addition to various vegetables, a large number of spices in particular are said to have a lust-promoting effect. Indian cuisine, in particular, offers a wide range of corresponding dishes. If you like things a little more down-to-earth, you will find them in medieval recipe books. Today, many of these herbal remedies are also available as easy-to-take preparations. Natural aphrodisiacs in the broadest sense also include alcohol and cannabis, which have a disinhibiting effect. Homeopathic remedies for increasing desire are also based on extracts from natural substances. As with traditional aphrodisiacs, however, there is no scientific proof of their effectiveness. This is largely given with pharmaceutical preparations, which are offered in large numbers today. In addition to active ingredients that stimulate blood flow in the genital area, these can also contain other substances. Buprion, for example, increases the ability to perceive sensory stimuli, such as touching the skin. The neurotransmitter dopamine, known as the happiness hormone, has a direct effect on sexual desire. The same applies to phenetylamine, which is also a hormone produced naturally in the body. In older men, as well as in post-menopausal women, the administration of testosterone can have a positive effect on sexual desire. Oxitozyn, a hormone that increases the sense of commitment between partners, can also be used as an aphrodisiac.
Risks and side effects
When taking a traditional aphrodisiac, no harmful side effects can normally occur. Rarely, mucous membrane irritation or skin rashes occur. Occasionally, allergic reactions are also possible. An exception is the so-called Spanish fly, which can cause testicular inflammation, burning mouth, vomiting, abdominal colic, pain during urination, chemical burns and bleeding because of its ingredients.For this reason, it is banned in most European countries. Pharmaceutical agents can lead to palpitations, high blood pressure, circulatory problems and in bad cases even to heart attacks if they are not used properly or if cardiovascular diseases are present. People with health problems should therefore use aphrodisiacs only after consulting their doctor.
