There are countless websites that claim to know the aphrodisiac properties of foods, perfumes and substances, capable of significantly improving our sexual activity. But do they really work? To answer this question in a serious and profound way we need to approach it from different angles. Let's start at the beginning.
Much has been said and written throughout history about the influence that certain foods have on sexual performance. At first this was simply because the shape of certain plants and fruits resembled the sexual organs of men and women. Thus, bananas or cucumbers, on the one hand, or oysters and pears on the other, generated in those who consumed them the illusion of sexual vigor. In some cases it was considered that just by touching an object or being near it, these powers were automatically transferred. Such is the case of rhinoceros horn or the semen of certain animals.
Eventually, legends were updated, incorporated into art and literature and became part of the collective imagination. Perfumes, actions and even words that were supposed to contribute to a better performance in sexual intercourse were also incorporated. As with religion, astrology and medical pseudo-sciences, reality and myth end up being related in such a way that it becomes very difficult to differentiate between them. Finally, modernity makes ancient beliefs its own, but revisits them and gives them new life.
Just as with migraines, stomach pain or any other health condition, "natural" remedies and potions do not pass through the sieve of scientific experiment. It is not until they are processed and potentiated by chemicals and pharmacological processes that they begin to give observable results. There are in fact 3 types of substances that act either by disinhibiting natural behavioral brakes or by directly stimulating sexual desire: drugs that increase dopamine, testosterone and melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Such is the case of sildenafil (used in Viagra) which increases blood flow to the penis during erection. Of course, the use of drugs comes with a price, both in terms of risks and contraindications.
Leaving aside their supposed magical qualities, there is a real sexual stimulus that many of them can have on us. Such is the case of sytophilia or food play. From simple games of sharing a strawberry with cream, to other more elaborate games with anointings and tastings on the bodies. This kind of practices appeal to the double excitement of morbidity and sensuality in its broadest sense. The senses of taste and aroma have a strong impact on the nervous system, extending the threshold of sensations.
Having said all this, it is worth remembering that one of the most important factors in sexual activity is self-esteem and disinhibition. That is why alcohol is perhaps one of the most powerful "natural" aphrodisiacs. By removing the social barriers and brakes, the way is free for desire and enjoyment to be the main protagonists. Something similar happens with the so-called aphrodisiac foods. If the person who consumes them is convinced of their properties, it may happen that he/she feels more confident during the sexual act and that allows a better performance. In short, that is what it is all about, enjoying one of the most motivating expressions known to human beings.
Do you agree with these concepts? Have you ever experimented with an aphrodisiac? Leave us your comment.
