Aphrodisiac: Difference between revisions
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*[[Pine nut]]s ([http://www.gourmetsleuth.com/aphrodis_foods.htm]) |
*[[Pine nut]]s ([http://www.gourmetsleuth.com/aphrodis_foods.htm]) |
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Some aphrodisiacs appear to gain their reputation from the principles of [[sympathetic magic]], e.g. oysters, due to their shape. This also explains the trade in the phallic-looking horn of the [[rhinoceros]], which is endangering this animal. |
Some aphrodisiacs appear to gain their reputation from the principles of [[sympathetic magic]], e.g. oysters, due to their shape. This also explains the trade in the phallic-looking horn of the [[rhinoceros]], which is endangering this animal. Other animal-based aphrodisiacs gain their reputation from the apparent virility or aggressiveness of the animal source - such as [[tiger]] penis - also endangering the species. Turtle eggs, eaten raw with salt and lime juice, are also said to be an aphrodisiac, leading to the poaching of many turtles, which are cut up to extract their eggs. However, most poachers dig up freshly laid turtle nests and very rarely cut up turtles to extract eggs. |
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== Natural Aphrodisiacs == |
== Natural Aphrodisiacs == |
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Revision as of 17:25, 11 December 2006
An aphrodisiac is an agent which acts on the mind and causes the arousal of the mood of sexual desire. The name comes from the Greek goddess of Sensuality Aphrodite. Desire can be stimulated by a variety of events or situations (see sexual arousal), but this article focuses on foods and drugs to which an aphrodisiac effect has been attributed.
Newly introduced exotic fruits or vegetables often acquire such a reputation, at least until they become more familiar.
- Eringoes (the Sea holly, Eryngium maritimum)
- Oysters
- Potatoes
- Spanish fly (Cantharidin)
- Tomatoes
- Pine nuts ([1])
Some aphrodisiacs appear to gain their reputation from the principles of sympathetic magic, e.g. oysters, due to their shape. This also explains the trade in the phallic-looking horn of the rhinoceros, which is endangering this animal. Other animal-based aphrodisiacs gain their reputation from the apparent virility or aggressiveness of the animal source - such as tiger penis - also endangering the species. Turtle eggs, eaten raw with salt and lime juice, are also said to be an aphrodisiac, leading to the poaching of many turtles, which are cut up to extract their eggs. However, most poachers dig up freshly laid turtle nests and very rarely cut up turtles to extract eggs.
Natural Aphrodisiacs
There are many aphrodisiacs found in nature. Some may have rare nutritional compounds that enhance sexuality in unknown ways, while others may fill nutritional gaps. For example, zinc is needed for libido. A human being with a low zinc status that would eat oysters (rich in zinc) may have libido levels go back to normal because of zinc levels returning to normal.
Aphrodisiac list:
Arginine, Ashwaganda, Asian Ginseng (Panax), Chocolate, Avena-Sativa/Oat Extract, Damiana, Ginkgo Biloba, Maca, oysters, Kava Kava, Yohimbe, Zinc Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia Jack)
Other drugs
There is some debate in lay circles as to whether a chemical called phenylethylamine present in chocolate is an aphrodisiac. This compound, however, is quickly degraded by the enzyme MAO such that significant concentrations do not reach the brain.
Medical science has not substantiated claims that any particular food increases sexual desire or performance. Yohimbine (the alkaloid derived from yohimbe bark) has been said to be an aphrodisiac and is prescribed in some countries as a drug to treat erectile dysfunction. As a mild MAO-inhibitor, yohimbine may increase genital bloodflow and sexual sensitivity for some people.
Another new drug called Bremelanotide (formerly PT-141) seems to be the first real aphrodisiac. It stimulates sexual desire in both men and women, and clinical trials are currently testing it for the treatment of sexual arousal disorder and erectile dysfunction.
Psychoactive substances like alcohol, cannabis and particularly 2C-B and MDMA are not aphrodisiacs in the strict sense of the definition above, but they can be used to increase sexual pleasure and to reduce inhibition.
Stimulants affecting the dopamine system such as cocaine and amphetamines are frequently associated with hyperarousal and hypersexuality, though both may impair sexual functioning, particularly in the long term.
Drugs like Viagra are not aphrodisiacs because they do not have any mood effect.
Not just drugs
Throughout history, many foods, drinks (such as Mama Juana), wines, and behaviors have had a reputation for making sex more attainable and/or pleasurable, though from a historical and scientific standpoint, many have had their desired results simply because their users have chosen to believe they will be effective (the placebo effect).
External links and references
- Gabriele Froböse, Rolf Froböse, Michael Gross (Translator): Lust and Love: Is it more than Chemistry? Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry, ISBN 0-85404-867-7, (2006).
- Aphrodisiacs recipes containing natural products
- The Roe Mantic Gems of the Ocean
- The Amorous Oddball Lobster
- Aphrodisiology A collection of articles and essays on aphrodisiacs.
- Cooking With Aphrodisiacs