HEALTH SITE

Is Viagra an aphrodisiac? Find out now

Contrary to its reputation, Viagra is not a miracle drug for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, nor does it work as an aphrodisiac. Containing the active ingredient sildenafil, Viagra is one of the earliest and most popular treatments for erectile dysfunction in men. It is a PDE5 inhibitor that blocks the action of PDE5-the chemical that restricts the flow of blood to the penis and prevents you from achieving or retaining an erection. Once the levels of PDE5 in your body have been lowered, you will be able to achieve an erection that is satisfactory for completing sexual intercourse. Viagra helps you maintain an erection only when you are sexually aroused or in a frame of mind for sexual activity. Unlike traditional aphrodisiacs, this medication does not work in the absence of external sexual stimulation. Viagra sildenafil does not claim to boost sexual desire, nor does it promote sexual pleasure.

What are aphrodisiacs?

In general terms, an aphrodisiac is a substance that produces and heightens sexual desire or boosts the libido. An aphrodisiac can also prolong orgasms or enhance intimacy between couples. Herbs such as belladonna and henbane were traditionally reputed to enhance sexual experience. At present some of the popular aphrodisiacs include foods such as ginseng, vitamin E, oysters, Yohimbe, mandrake roots, champagne and bitter chocolate. There are a number of medications and drugs that also produce aphrodisiacal effects. These include Pergolide Mesylate and L-Dopa that are used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and others. But no drug as yet has been actually approved for use as an aphrodisiac. Extensive research is still required to determine the efficiency and effectiveness of aphrodisiacal products on the body. Some of the well known aphrodisiacs have been known to cause serious side effects that outweigh the health benefits.