Thursday, July 26, 2007 Do aphrodisiacs really work? By Fritz Espedilla, M.D. MediTalk
THERE are of a lot of manufacturers claiming their products in the market today really work in improving one's sexual performance. But, which one really performs best? And which ones should be avoided?
The release of inhibitions or being afraid caused by illicit drugs can facilitate sex for many people, but the cost is high in terms of the risk it brings to their general health and the risk of drug addiction. Some drugs are potentially dangerous and you should avoid them or else, you'll suffer a lot.
For instance, the long-term use of opiates like morphine and heroin is associated with reduced levels of testosterone in males and with infertility. The withdrawal of opiate drugs often times results to restoration of normal functions.
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant, but it causes a very powerful and dangerous drug addiction.
Marijuana (cannabis sativa) smokers often claim that they have heightened sexual performances after taking MJ. But, take note guys, MJ reduces the ability of the male testicle to produce sperm and exerts a feminizing effect because it reduces testosterone level in the blood.
Spanish fly is one popular type of sexual stimulant. This has already been banned in several countries, but is still available for sale in sex shops in many other countries. As a matter of fact, I've seen this sold over the counter in San Francisco, CA, USA. Spanish fly is available most often as a powder derived from an insect (beetle). When the powder is taken orally or topically, it causes intense irritation to the stomach and the urinary tract. The active ingredient is cantharidin, and it can be deadly in even small dosage. As little as 10 mg can kill you.
Poisoning from Spanish fly represents a serious medical emergency! An intense allergic reaction can occur with profuse dribbling of saliva, blistering of the mouth and throat, and severe abdominal upset. The irritation in the urinary tract can result in blood in the urine or severe bleeding. One particularly unpleasant side effect which you wish you would not get is priapism or painful erection of the male organ lasting for hours. This can result in death in cases of overdose.
There are many other aphrodisiacs or natural agents that are still promoted, but they must be considered outdated, useless and potentially dangerous. So, take more notes on these names!
* White water lilies
* Nymphaea alba
* Wood sorrel (oxalis corniculata)
* Pedalium murex
(Next: Aphrodisiacs: Some helpful herbs)
