Aphrodisiacs

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nIntroduction

nAphrodisiacs refer to products that have the capability to increase or arouse sexual excitement or desire. The term originated from ancient Greek word “Aphrodite” which referred to the goddess of love. The products stimulate the sexual performance, drive and promote higher rate of sexual satisfaction (Dell, 2015). Moreover, they lead to greater rise in sexual interest and libido. In some instance, these agents are utilized in the treatment and management of impotence (Corazza, et al, 2012). Since the ancient times, many behaviours, drinks and foods have possessed a reputation for achievement of more pleasurable and attainable sex. Nonetheless, some scholars have argued that from scientific and historical perspective, the effects of aphrodisiacs occur because the people have decided to believe that they will have impacts on their sexuality (placebo effect). Scientists in medical field have not ascertained the idea that any type of food raises sexual performance or desire (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). For instance, rhinoceros horn is believed by many to have aphrodisiac characteristics but scientists have not confirmed this perception. Some of these agents seem to acquire their status from the concept of sympathetic magic. In particular, oysters are considered aphrodisiacs because of their shapes. Plant and animal products as well as artificial drugs are used as aphrodisiac in different parts of the world. Some of these plants include red pepper, nuts, asparagus, bananas, avocados, and figs (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). On the other hand, aphrodisiac derived from animals species include rhinoceros horn, tiger penis, and oysters. Throughout history, the choice of aphrodisiacs has been based on shape, and appearances (Corazza, et al, 2012). In addition, foods believed to be sexy are those that are spicy, exotic, creamy, rich and smooth. In this regard, rare, exotic and phallic foods were considered to have aphrodisiac effects. Drugs used as aphrodisiacs include imipramine, pergolide, naloxone, amantadine, bromociptine and levodopa (I-dopa). The paper will explore the pros and cons of aphrodisiacs (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013).

nBoth women and men have used aphrodisiacs experiences challenges such as sexual dysfunctions. Women suffer from low level of hormones that leads to poor sexual desire or a failure to attain orgasm. In particular, women in their menopause period tend to suffer from these effects (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). On the other hand, men experience challenges such as premature ejaculation, and impotence. Initially, these challenges were believed to be caused by psychological issues. However, recent studies have indicated that physical issues such as hormone imbalance, stress, and heart disease lead to sexual dysfunction (McMurray, et al, 2011). Therefore, aphrodisiacs play a major part in raising the level of libido, enhance sexual performance, and manage impotence and deals with physiological challenges that influence sexual activity (Melnyk & Marcone, 2011).

nArtificial drugs used as aphrodisiacs have a wide range of benefits to users. Precisely, these drugs work by promoting and reinforcing performance and sensation of the sex organs (Qureshi, Naughton & Petroczi, 2014). In addition, they enhance the flow of blood to the sex organs of males hence cultivating their libido. On the other hand, they lead to similar reactions in women were also cause a high rate of sexual stimulation (McMurray, et al, 2011). Arginine has a direct effect in the genital areas, while other kinds of supplements stimulate the brain. Prostaglandins can be applied directly to the penis through injection. A small solid can also be inserted into the urethra to enhance sexual performance. This is one of the widely used aphrodisiac because of its effectiveness and accessibility locally (Singh & Singh, 2012).

nVarious drugs have been used as stimulants of sexual desires and performance. For instance, Viagra (sildenafil citrate) has been certified and used for the impotence treatment. Medical researchers have demonstrated that sildenafil citrate fixes erectile dysfunction challenges in 60-70 per cent of males (McMurray, et al, 2011). Furthermore, the drug is commonly applied to promote a penis erection in combination with sexual stimuli. Women and men also utilize arginine to promote performance and sensation of sex organs. Arginine produces desirable effects in both men and women. Furthermore, prostaglandins have been utilized across the globe as aphrodisiac agents in the local communities. Currently, research is being conducted to determine whether oxytocin can be used an aphrodisiac among women (McMurray, et al, 2011).

nAlthough these drugs are beneficial, they provide significant negative effects. Apparently, aphrodisiac drugs have many side effects, which include tremors, mental disorders, and suicidal tendencies. Moreover, they cause anomalies of hearts rhythm. Therefore, users are advised to use the drugs under medical instructions and guidance (Dell, 2015). The Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) generates some side effects that can be exhibited after few hours or minutes following the use of the drug. In particular, they lead to blood vessels dilation in other body organs contributing to fainting and headaches (Singh & Singh, 2012). Moreover, they cause blurred vision, upset stomach, facial flushing and light sensitivity especially in cases of high dosage.

nPlants such as maca (Lepidium meyenii) have been utilized for a long time as an aphrodisiac. It is herbal plant in the broccoli family. Its roots bear a resemblance to a turnip. Maca is categorized into different groups based on its colour, which can be yellow, pink, black or red. Countries such as Peru have grown this plant for centuries (Corazza, et al, 2012). As an aphrodisiac, it has been utilized across the globe among persons of both genders. For over 5,000 years, the herb has been a good aphrodisiac, which also increases levels of virility and fertility. Research has confirmed that the plant has potent stimulating impacts on sexual activity for both women and men (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). It does not influence the work of hormones and does not raise oestrogen or testosterone. Men using maca as supplements have indicated a rise in production of sperm.

nOther beneficial effect of this herb includes increasing libido, and reduces frigidity as well as enhancing fertility among men and women respectively. It also helps in the endocrine glands regularization and minimizes painful failure and menopausal symptoms and problems (Oto, 2015). Moreover, maca is also considered a powerful conqueror of prostate hypertrophy, with strength close to finasteride – an artificial drug used for the enlarged prostates treatment. Studies that are more recent have noted that maca has beneficial effects concerning protection against brain damage (Dell, 2015). Similarly, they enhance bone health and even increase the cognitive capacity in healthy individuals. It is beneficial in the human nervous system because it deals with various challenges, which are affected by stress (Corazza, et al, 2012). It assists in fighting different diseases and re-establishes vitality to persons requiring energy.

nApart from sexual health, maca provides other benefits in terms of treatment of other diseases such as pains, fatigue and weakness. In addition, the herbs strengthen the immune systems, which contribute to overall good health. It has the capacity to protect against diseases such as anaemia and tuberculosis as well as control stomach cancer and osteoporosis (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). Apparently, the herb is also useful in reducing joint pains and constipation. Maca offers balancing impacts on the nervous systems. In so doing, it provides significant benefits with regard to stress. It also enhances restorative sleep, encourages concentration capacity, and supports human memory (Corazza, et al, 2012). Studies have highlighted that maca is useful in terms of provision and restoration of vitality and energy in human body. It also acts as anti-ageing, which facilitate hydration process of the skin. Furthermore, it offers courage and strength (Vejayan, Iman, Foong, & Ibrahim, 2013).

nHowever, maca has some negative effects when it is used excessively. Research suggests that maca cannot be used for more than three successive months because it can lead to side effects (Dell, 2015). The herbs are not used when a person is suffering from high blood pressure, and cardiac problems. Fortunately, many researches have been done to determine the side effects of maca, but no study has identified any potential harm (Singh & Singh, 2012).

nA study by Kotta, Ansari & Ali, (2013) examined the health effects of Chinese aphrodisiacs. Herbs such as yohimbine, tribulus terrestris, ginkgo, damiana, muira puama, cordyceps, epidedium, rehmannia, and ginseng are used as aphrodisiacs to increase arousal particularly among persons with sexual problems, increase sexual pleasures and libido. The herbs also play a role in improving sperm vitality, efficiency of erection and sexual desires (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). For instance, yohimbine is a product, which is used as aphrodisiac and can help to burn excess fats. In most cases, it has been utilized to assist people to reduce levels of fats in the body within a small period of fasting. The compound functions by raising levels of adrenaline in the body (Vejayan, Iman, Foong, & Ibrahim, 2013). More significantly, it hinders a process of regulation in fat cell, which facilitates burning of fats.

nHowever, maximum effects can be identified when an individual have partial intake of food especially during fasting. On the contrary, yohimbine has various side effects. For instance, it leads to anxiety and undesirably reacts with various pharmaceuticals (Oto, 2015). The compound may also cause suicidal episodes or manic psychosis in persons with bipolar disorders. Yohimbine can react with many of neurological products and it must not be utilized together with these medicines without the guidance of a physician (Corazza, et al, 2012). Similarly, persons with larger body weight are at risk of experiencing adverse effects in their cardiovascular system associated with use of yohimbine since the body many are unable to deal with this stimulatory agent. It raises the heart rate and blood pressure, which increases risk of cardiovascular problems (Melnyk & Marcone, 2011).

nEpimedium (Horny Goat Weed) is a Chinese aphrodisiac, which assist in treatment of erectile dysfunction. Research has also noted that this product is beneficial since it increases cognitive capacity and increases the health of the heart. It is considered a booster for testosterone (Vejayan, Iman, Foong, & Ibrahim, 2013). It achieved it name after sheep and goat were observed to become more excited after consuming Horny Goat Weed in the fields (Singh & Singh, 2012). The plant contain power ingredient referred to as Icariin, which is a flavonoid product, which possesses aphrodisiac properties. An animal study conducted in rats indicated that at high dosage, the agent increase levels of testosterone. Additionally, at moderate dosage, the product can produce beneficial effects on bone health. However, among the females, the compound does not raise the levels of testosterone (Qureshi, Naughton & Petroczi, 2014). It contains Desmethylicaritin compound, which raises the levels of oestrogen among females in the post-menopausal period. The herb is a beneficial aphrodisiac in both men and women. Researches have confirmed that the Horny Goat Weed can cause side effects especially in case of prolonged usage (Corazza, et al, 2012).

nTribulus terrestris is an aphrodisiac herb whose fruits and roots are utilized for male vitality and virility. Its roots are used as a source of sexual health and libido without influencing testosterone. On the other hand, the fruits help to protect the potency of organ function. In males, research has indicated that this compound improves on urogenital and cardiovascular health (ElAgouri, et al, 2015). It is normally used as a supplement to increase levels of libido since it possesses the testosterone enhancing characteristics. In animal studies, it has enhanced the potent libido and has ascertained its role in erectile function and sexual health (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). Although reports do not indicate how tribulus operates, it is understood that the product boosts the density of androgen receptors in the brain, which enriches the libido improving characters of androgens (Sahelian, 2004).

nEmpirical evidence also indicates that tribulus it is ineffective or weak in increasing fertility. An ingredient referred to as tribulosin tend to be strongly cardioprotective. Furthermore, in animal studies, the tribulus fruit seems to offer protection for internal organs such as kidneys and liver from oxidative damages at lower amount. Similarly, it has anti-stress impacts hence it is referred to as adaptogen (Corazza, et al, 2012). Adaptogens are agents that are capable of preventing the chemical and physical impacts of stress. However, this product has no health benefits concerning the provision of energy especially in vigour and fatigue related exercise (ElAgouri, et al, 2015). Other studies point out that use of tribulus can cause renal toxicity and neurotoxicity in ruminant although it has not been confirmed in human species.

nMuira puama is an aphrodisiac that have beneficial health effects in humans. The oral dose of the compound is 1000-1500. Since ancient period, muira puama has been utilized as a sexual and vitality stimulator particularly among the older men. It is also used as nerve tonic in the treatment of chronic nervous disease (Vejayan, Iman, Foong, & Ibrahim, 2013). The most effective terpenoid in the compound is ptychonal. Various studies have confirmed that muira puama increases sexual fantasies and thoughts as well as boost sexual satisfaction and frequency (Kotta, Ansari & Ali, 2013). Other researches have revealed that muira puama has beneficial effects on nerve regeneration because they contain Nerve-Growth Factor, which stimulate growth in nerves.

nMedical researchers also observed that the compound has acetylcholinesterase hindering features. In vitro studies have revealed out that the compound has neuroprotection properties because it produces anti-oxidative impacts in the brain (Taberner, 2012). Moreover, it helps in reduction of anxiety and stress hence it has adaptogenic effects. Similarly, it is believed the product has recognized anti-depressive and cadioprotective impacts (ElAgouri, et al, 2015).

nButea Superba is a Thai aphrodisiac, which is utilized for boosting the vitality in males. It is a rich provider of androgenic components. Studies have demonstrated that it facilitates male organs growth. However, the compound is believed to be unproductive for erectile dysfunction or erections since there are limited empirical evidence to ascertain the concept (Corazza, et al, 2012). However, in animal studies such as rats, it has boosted penile erection in both healthy rats and diabetic rats. Moreover, Butea Superba has anti-estrogenic effects based on cellular contexts. At high dosage, the compound can have negative health effects including genotoxic or mutagenic effects at higher dosage (Singh & Singh, 2012).

nAnimal products have also been used as aphrodisiacs in different parts of the world. Some of these animals used as aphrodisiacs are rare hence endangered species (Sahelian, 2004). They include deer musk rhinoceros horn, tiger penis and giant pandas, golden monkeys, and black bears. Reports indicate that musk deer and rhino horn are one of the expensive animal products in China (Taberner, 2012). These products are believed to treat respiratory, circulatory and cardiac problems. Significantly, it is understood that these animal products are used as aphrodisiacs since they help to raise the sexual performance and health since they are rich sources of potassium, Vitamin E, C and A (Oto, 2015).

nHowever, these animal aphrodisiacs provide negative effects especially among the endangered species. For instance, some misconceptions about aphrodisiacs have played a part in rise of rhinoceros horn business because of it phallic appearance, which contributed to put in danger this animal (Melnyk & Marcone, 2011). Similarly, other aphrodisiacs derived from animals acquire their status from the apparent aggressiveness or virility of the animal species (Taberner, 2012). For instance, the tiger penis has been considered an aphrodisiac, which increases the risk of endangering the animal.

nConclusion

nAphrodisiacs are kinds of compounds used to enhance sexual health and performance in humans. Researches indicate that artificial drugs, plants and animal products have been used as aphrodisiacs (Dell, 2015). Drugs prescribed as aphrodisiacs include sildenafil citrates (Viagra), imipramine, pergolide, naloxone, amantadine and levodopa. Health benefits of these compounds include raising the sensation of sex organs (Taberner, 2012). However, they can lead to various side effects such as tremors, mental disorders, suicidal tendencies and heart rhythm irregularities. Herbs that are used as aphrodisiacs include yohimbine, tribulus terrestris, muira puama, maca, Epimedium and ginseng. They have different health effects such improvement of sexual health, cognitive growth, anti-stress and anti-anxiety. However, they are source of negative effects because high dosage of some of them can result to toxicity of kidney and lungs (Qureshi, Naughton & Petroczi, 2014). Animal aphrodisiacs offer health benefits since they are source of Vitamin E, C and A. Nonetheless, they lead to reduction in the number of endangered species.

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nReferences

nCorazza, O., Martinotti, G., Santacroce, R., Chillemi, E., Di Giannantonio, M., Schifano, F., & Cellek, S. (2012). Raising Awareness of the Psychoactive Effects of Yohimbine, Maca, Horny Goat Weed, andGinkgo biloba.

nDell, L. (2015). Aphrodisiacs: An AZ. Skyhorse Publishing, Inc..

nElAgouri, G., ElAmrawy, F., ElYazbi, A., Eshra, A., & Nounou, M. I. (2015). Male enhancement Nutraceuticals in the Middle East market: Claim, pharmaceutical quality and safety assessments. International journal of pharmaceutics, 492(1), 109-119.

nKotta, S., Ansari, S. H., & Ali, J. (2013). Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs. Pharmacognosy reviews, 7(13), 1.

nMcMurray, J. G., Feldman, R. A., Auerbach, S. M., DeRiesthal, H., Wilson, N., & Multicenter Study Group. (2011). Long-term safety and effectiveness of sildenafil citrate in men with erectile dysfunction. Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 3(6), 975.

nMelnyk, J. P., & Marcone, M. F. (2011). Aphrodisiacs from plant and animal sources—A review of current scientific literature. Food Research International, 44(4), 840-850.

nOto, E. O. (2015). An Evaluation Of The Aphrodisiac And Fertility Enhancing Effect Of The Methanolic Root Extract Of Cissus Populnea Guill. And Perr.(Vitaceae) (Doctoral dissertation).

nQureshi, A., Naughton, D. P., & Petroczi, A. (2014). A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect. Journal of dietary supplements, 11(1), 64-79.

nSahelian, R. (2004). Natural Sex Boosters: Supplements That Enhance Stamina, Sensation, and Sexuality for Men and Women. Square One Publishers, Inc..

nSingh, A. P., & Singh, R. (2012). Potent natural aphrodisiacs for the management of erectile dysfunction and male sexual debilities. Frontiers in Bioscience, 1(4), 167-180.

nTaberner, P. V. (2012). Aphrodisiacs: The science and the myth. Springer Science & Business Media.

nVejayan, J., Iman, V., Foong, S. L., & Ibrahim, H. (2013). Protein markers useful in authenticating Eurycoma longifolia contained herbal aphrodisiac products. Malaysian Journal of Science, 32(1), 15-23.