Aphrodisiacs

Have you ever wondered if aphrodisiacs really work? Their effectiveness has been both disputed and greatly supported by many throughout the ages. Research into the benefits of aphrodisiacs is ongoing, although someone has yet to offer substantiated evidence that outweighs one side or the other.

It has been stated by many that aphrodisiacs provide placebo effects and that sexual arousal is an intricate matter that cannot be attributed to just one factor, such as an aphrodisiac.
The origin of the world aphrodisiac comes from the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite. Throughout history, quite a few cultures have taken their aphrodisiacs very seriously.

For example, the Chinese believe that the genitalia of male animals can improve virility in men, and therefore they purchase the genitalia of tigers and seals, much to the frustration of organizations for the protection of endangered species.

Apart from seals and tigers, other animals are hunted for their “coveted” parts. Due to its aggressive character and strength, the rhinoceros is in danger of being hunted for its horn, which is then ground into a fine powder.
Turtles are also in grave danger, as their raw eggs are both an aphrodisiac and a delicacy eaten with limejuice and salt.

Of all the aphrodisiacs, oysters are the most well-known. This is quite beneficial for the oyster industry, which milks the reputation of its product for all it’s worth, claiming that it is the ideal meal for romantic candle-lit dinners.

If it’s the oysters or the atmosphere that puts you in the mood, no one can say as yet. Often aphrodisiacs are shape like human genitalia, contributing to their ability to promote sexual arousal with imagery, e.g. oysters and rhinoceros horns.

Chocolate is another possible aphrodisiac due to the fact that it contains the chemical phenylethylamine, which can act as a mild sexual stimulant. For it to actually work as an aphrodisiac you would have to consume large quantities.

Its reputation can be attributed to the feeling of pleasure that is produced when the chemical is released in the brain. This may be why chocolate is a popular gift on Valentines Day and on anniversaries!

In recent years, scientists have made leaps and bounds in the development of drugs that help in medical conditions, such as erectile dysfunction and sexual arousal disorder. Most medications are not considered aphrodisiacs per say, as they have an effect on the sexual function and not on the mood.

So, what is it that makes us frisky? Is it the chocolate and the oysters? The mood created by a candle-lit dinner? Our brains are the most sexual organ in our bodies, with which we respond to various stimuli in our environment.

It is possible that just calling something an aphrodisiac will generate the desired sexual response. Is sexual appetite something we create on our own? Whether you believe in aphrodisiacs or not, people will continue searching for the ultimate pleasure forever!