'Aphrodisiacs do not exist'

Beware. From foods to tonics, the market is buzzing with false promises of stimulants that claim to rev up your latent sex life
Named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty and fertility, aphrodisiacs are substances that supposedly induce or boost sexual desire. For centuries, people have believed their potency, but science says the claims are far from truth.
No scientific study, till date, has proved the existence of a sex tonic, sex stimuli or sex drug. Confirmations are yet to be made of chemicals being able to permeate the hypothalamic region (a complex region that controls sexual desire) of the brain. The power of ‘suggestion’ is the only explanation for an aphrodisiac’s “effectiveness”. If one truly believes that a particular substance will help boost his/her sexual capabilities, then it will at least in the shortterm. However, this is more psychogenic and the substance merely works as a placebo.
On the other side
Several herbs, chemicals, plants, drugs and foodstuffs claim to enhance our sexual function. But many of them can be potentially toxic and harmful. For instance, Ayurveda quacks often prescribe swarna bhasma (chemically processed gold) for improving one’s sex life. However, the chemical has nothing to do with sexual function, and an overdose is toxic to one’s kidney and liver.
If not aphrodisiacs, then what?
» A well-rested body, adequate time, privacy, a conducive environment, a relaxed state of mind, and an attraction for the partner will have the same effect. If the couple does not feel for each other, they could consume all the oysters in the world, but in vain.
» The second most effective aphrodisiac is your health. If you are in good health, and do not suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol or other diseases, and are relaxed, you can lead a healthy sexual life. You cannot isolate sexual health from the rest of your body.
» Fear of pregnancy often dilutes the intimacy of togetherness. Hence, confidence in your contraception and a certain level of comfort level with it is crucial. Speak to your doctor and in consultation with your partner, figure out the best contraceptive method for you.
» A frequently asked question is, “Doctor, which is the best diet for sex?” And I often repeat “What is good for your heart is also good for your penis”.
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