An aphrodisiac is a food or substance that can heighten sexual arousal or awareness. Foods such as oysters and chocolate are generally referred to as aphrodisiacs. And while they are not generally used to cure conditions, such as impotence or infertility, various substances of plant or animal origin have been used in certain cultures and folk medicine, according to Paola Sandroni of the Department of Neurology at the Mayo Clinic. Aphrodisiacs act in several ways, such as increasing libido, sexual pleasure and potency.
Herbs
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, herbal ingredients are used in products such as Viramax to act as aphrodisiacs. The herbal ingredients include catuaba, muira puama and maca. These formulas, however, are not proven safe or effective. Another concoction known as Spanish fly, which is made from dried beetles, has been used for quite some time. This remedy is a widely touted aphrodisiac but is also potentially harmful and can irritate the urinary and genital tract, causing infection and other damage such as scarring and burning in the throat and mouth.
Substances
According to Sandroni of the Mayo Clinic, ambrein is an aphrodisiac substance that is used to enhance libido in Arab countries. It increases testosterone and other hormones that can cause stimulation.
Champagne
Champagne and other alcoholic beverages have been deemed aphrodisiacs. Some people are able to unwind after consuming a drink, but the science behind this indicates that alcohol lowers inhibitions and can impair irrational thinking and judgment, causing some people to lose sexual tension. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, feelings of euphoria can result with excessive drinking and can raise the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy if those feelings translate to sexual activity.
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