Aphrodisiacs and pheromones: myth or reality? Armed with the latest scientific research, we find out whether it is possible to influence people with the help of smells. Reading the article will take 8 minutes.
Lyricist: Daria Rachmaninova, Tanya Belaya
They say that perfume or any other product with pheromones is a strong stimulant that will help a person bind and almost make someone else fall in love with them. A kind of love potion that anyone can use. Men (or women, as you wish) will lie in stacks at your feet as soon as they smell the treasured smell. How do pheromones actually work? Daria Rakhmaninova, a researcher at the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry named after M.M., helped us understand this issue. Shemyakin and Yu. A. Ovchinnikov RAS.
Discovery of pheromones in animals
Pheromones are chemical molecules that are released by animals to induce a specific behavioral response in another animal of their species.
These signaling molecules are found in urine, sweat, genital secretions and other secretions of the exocrine glands.
Pheromones that control sexual behavior were first discovered in silkworms in the 60s. Scientists obtained the pure substance bombycol, secreted by females, and were able to prove its effect on the sexual behavior of males. Subsequently, researchers began to look for and find similar substances in other animals.
Myths and reality: the whole truth about pheromones
Each person has their own individual smell. As you can see, we are distinguished not only by the color of our skin and eyes. The smell inherent in a certain person is not felt at all by most people. The idea is that chemical compounds released by one person are intended for another person, with an opposite set of these compounds called pheromones. The purpose of pheromones is to attract the opposite sex by influencing the neuroendocrine system of a potential mate.
Pheromones can be of natural or artificial origin. Based on the name, you most likely understand that natural ones are produced by humans and plants, artificial ones - in the laboratory.
So what is the secret of their action?
Photo: pixabay.com/ru
Types of natural pheromones:
Androstenone. A male pheromone that influences a woman, she begins to see in a man a worthy partner for procreation.
Androstenol. A pheromone common to men and women, it “rejuvenates” a potential companion in the eyes of an interested person.
Copulin. Produced by women, it helps attract men.
Artificial:
Osmopherine. Affects a man's activity.
Osmoferon. Increases attractiveness in the eyes of the opposite sex.
Currently, perfume companies offer men and women a choice of special perfumes containing pheromones. No alcohol is added to them, since the chemical compound of pheromone is very weak and is easily destroyed.
Despite the skeptical attitude of experts towards such perfumery innovations, perfumes with pheromones are very popular among both men and women. So what is the secret of their action? In fact, pheromones do not have any odor; they only give a signal to the satellite's brain. At first you might think that pheromones enter the brain through the respiratory tract, but this is not the case. A tiny organ was recently discovered in the human nasopharynx, which receives the primary signal and then sends it to the brain. The human body is able to perceive the pheromones of another person only at close range.
But there is also a danger when using this kind of perfume: instead of the attention of the person you have been seeking for a long time, you risk becoming the subject of unwanted interest of completely strangers. But this only happens if you constantly use these perfumes.
In fact, they are free to dispose of the attention that a woman or man receives as they wish. No one guarantees a successful marriage with a person who responded to your “call”. Pheromones only help to increase the number of potential partners around, and what to do with these people next depends only on you.
No one guarantees a successful marriage with a person who responded to your “call”
Photo: pixabay.com/ru
How to choose perfumes with pheromones
Since pheromones themselves are odorless, focus on the perfume scent that suits you most. As we have already said, there is no alcohol in such perfumes, so as not to destroy fragile chemical compounds. But there is still a little advice that will help both men and women: choose fragrances with musk in the composition.
How to use perfumes with pheromones
Don't forget that pheromones only work at close range. And the person you are trying to attract will not always reciprocate your feelings: he may be modest. Of course, you will attract attention, but spirits will still not be able to make a person fall in love with you.
Don't forget that pheromones only work at close range.
Photo: pixabay.com/ru
As you already understand, perfume with pheromones does not exist in its pure form, because such products using human pheromones are prohibited for sale. But you can buy perfumes with artificial pheromones. In addition, there are no uniform rules for seduction. Try using tools to attract the opposite sex on an intuitive level.
How do pheromones work?
While studying various pheromones, scientists discovered that they are detected by the vomeronasal organ (VNO) or Jacobson's organ. It is located in the nasal cavity of animals and serves as an auxiliary olfactory sense organ.
VNO is used to detect odorous substances that carry information for individuals of the same species.
Many have demonstrated the presence of Jacobson's organ in animals and its influence on reproduction and social behavior. Unlike animals, in which the VNO is well developed, humans have only simple epithelial tubes. Could our Jacobson's organ also influence our behavior?
The latter show that our Jacobson's organ does not detect odors. In addition, vomeronasal nerve bundles could not be detected, indicating a lack of neural communication between the VNO and the brain. This suggests that the vomeronasal epithelium is not a sensory organ in adult humans, unlike other mammals.
Do “perfume with pheromones” work, and do humans even have these substances?
: 22.04.2019
All living organisms, including bacteria, release signaling molecules into the environment, to which individuals of the same and even other species can respond. An example is the transfer of information between insects and the plants they pollinate. However, the existence of “chemical mail” between people is still questionable. Moreover, scientists are arguing not only about the possibility of the existence of human “pheromones,” as it is customary to call all external secretion products that ensure intraspecific chemical communication, but also about the meaning of this term itself. In search of an answer to these questions, the researchers used a technique that is usually used to study atmospheric chemistry.
According to modern concepts, pheromones participate in interactions between individuals of the same species, including those of different sexes, changing their behavior. The first pheromone was discovered 60 years ago by the German biochemist A. Butenandt: it is a chemical compound called bombicol
, used to attract a sexual partner to the silkworm butterfly. Since then, similar substances have been found in insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles and mammals.
As for humans, the presence of pheromones has not yet been proven, although such attempts have been made several times. Thus, it was argued that thanks to chemical communication, women synchronize their menstrual cycle when living together, as is observed in rodents. However, it later turned out that in reality this was not the case.
androstadienone as sex pheromones (male and female, respectively)
and
estratetraenol
, but this also could not be proven. By the way, that did not stop “perfume with pheromones” from being actively sold and no less actively bought, since such a simple way to attract the attention of the opposite sex seems very tempting to many.
Why is there still no comprehensive answer to the question about human pheromones? One of the reasons is methodological, including a small number of subjects and questionable statistical methods for processing data. The main reason is that usually researchers dealt with the end result, and not with the process: for example, the participants in the experiment put on a T-shirt at night, and the scientists analyzed “en masse” all the compounds that got on it with sweat during this period. In this case, it is almost impossible to capture the subtle nuances of changes in chemical compounds in response to specific stimulation.
Help came from unexpected places. Among the participants in a recent discussion of the problem of chemical communication in humans at a meeting of the Royal Society was Professor J. Williams, an expert in atmospheric chemistry from the Institute of Chemistry. Max Planck (Germany). It turned out that the PTR-MS proton mass spectrometer, used in studies of the microelement composition of the atmosphere, can also be successfully used to “hunt” for pheromones and other similar molecules, since it allows real-time monitoring of human emissions of substances into the environment.
Several years ago, Williams' group conducted such research on football fans: they were supposed to determine the chemical "pattern" of fans at the moment of scoring a goal. However, the match ended 0:0, so the scientists subsequently worked in cinemas, measuring the concentrations of hundreds of molecules in the outflow of the cinema's ventilation system. They worked on 108 screenings of 16 films of various genres, which were seen by more than 9.5 thousand viewers.
It turned out that the chemical “pattern” of the atmosphere of the hall actually changed depending on the plot. Carbon dioxide levels increased in response to dramatic scenes
(probably due to rapid breathing) and
isoprene
, one of the metabolic products. It is known that the concentration of isoprene in exhaled air changes during physical activity, so the increase in its concentration could be associated with the movements of spectators, for example, clenching their fists.
But the concentrations of chemicals in the air changed most significantly when watching certain scenes in suspense films, i.e. psychological thriller and comedy. The researchers believe that here we may be dealing with an evolutionarily important mechanism: it may be beneficial for the survival of the species if the emotions accompanying such situations are well “caught” by others. As for cinema, this “chemical accompaniment” of a film, generated by the audience itself, can change the picture of the viewer’s perception.
By the way, emotionally induced emissions of certain substances (the same isoprene) can complicate attempts to diagnose diseases using volatile chemical markers, for example, diabetes, which today are carried out using special devices or trained animals.
Now scientists are continuing their research on the search for human sex pheromones, as well as signaling molecules of fear and aggression. For example, they study changes in the chemical composition of soldiers' sweat before their first parachute jump.
But the question is: will human pheromones be found or not? – so far it remains unanswered. A negative answer seems to be supported by the fact that we practically lack the so-called vomeronasal organ
(
Jacobson's organ
), the receptors of which are precisely “tuned” to perceive vital odors associated with the search for a sexual partner, food or danger. However, scientists have not yet reached a common opinion regarding its presence and functioning in humans.
In addition, such signals can be encoded not by one specific substance, but by a complex complex of several compounds, the concentrations of which in the body begin to change under certain conditions. After all, people are much more complex than butterflies, and it’s unlikely that anyone will force you to rush into their arms by scenting them with a “love potion.”
Photo:
Prepared by Maria Perepechaeva
: 22.04.2019
Do humans have pheromones?
A nonfunctional VNO does not mean that there are no pheromones in the human body. Therefore, scientists and commercial structures began to actively search for them. Dozens of articles have been written about the effects of androgenic steroid hormones, which are claimed to be “human pheromones.”
For example, androstenone is an androgenic steroid, which is classified as a pheromone. It was found in particular in the urine and saliva of wild boar. In hogweed, females arch their backs, thereby indicating that they are ready to mate. The same reaction is observed when pure androstenone is sprayed.
After androstenone was found in human sweat, many researchers concluded that it plays the same role as a pheromone in pigs.
Experiments were also carried out with other hormones, namely with the molecules of androstadienone and estratetraenol. This study was sponsored by the EROX Corporation, which has commercial interests in human pheromone research.
The authors of the experiment argued that these molecules affect the mood of men and women and have the greatest effect on the opposite sex.
Another sensation was the discovery of copulins in rhesus monkeys. This is the vaginal secretion of females, which leads males into excitement, impulses of masturbation and other active sexual behavior.
Since the beginning of 2000, more than 40 works have been published that prove the effect of steroid hormones. Unfortunately, due to small sample sizes and effect overestimation, these experiments were found to be statistically underpowered.
Sexy Life Wild Musk No. 6
This scent was a real hit! The reason for this is the double concentration of wonderful pheromones. This means that this is not just a perfume, but a product that significantly enhances female attractiveness. The main weapon of this fragrance is musk, which is famous as an effective aphrozodiac. This component is responsible for increased attraction to the opposite sex and improving the mood of the lady herself. In addition, enthusiastic customer reviews indicate that the scent has a positive effect on self-confidence.
But these perfumes can boast of more than just effective action. The good news is that they have a pleasant smell. The composition is based on beautiful vanilla. Men almost unanimously agree that sweet vanilla scents are the most pleasant and delicate. The unusual composition of this perfume is provided by a combination of vanilla with spicy and woody notes.
Perfume with pheromones: what to choose?
Despite the fact that to date the effect of pheromones on humans has not been proven, manufacturers of perfumes and cosmetics could not ignore it. Many brands are ready to offer customers perfumes with pheromones or a pure concentrate from a mixture of pheromones.
People who regularly use such perfumes claim that the “miracle molecules” really work: they increase self-confidence, inspire the trust of the interlocutor and attract the opposite sex.
Warehouse manager for sex toy suppliers Anastasia, for example, uses Pheromax pheromone concentrate to increase sales in the store, at trainings and business negotiations. It is odorless and can be used together with your favorite perfume or in its pure form. Anastasia notes that it is much easier for her to establish contact with the buyer if she first applies a couple of drops of pheromones.
Sexy life perfumes, which replicate the scents of your favorite brands, but with the addition of pheromones, are very popular among lovers of “secret” products.
We still tend to think that we are talking about the placebo effect: you believe in the action of pheromones, you become more self-confident and, as a result, more successful in communication.
If perfumes with pheromones help someone overcome fear and constraint, then why not?
Pheromones: the secret of attraction
In fact, there are many positive reviews after using perfumes with pheromones.
For some, problematic situations in the family were resolved, for others, relationships with a loved one changed for the better, and others attracted the attention of an indifferent person.
Perfume with pheromones lasts from 6 to 8 hours. But in order for them to be as effective as possible, they need to be applied in a special way - to places where blood vessels are located closer to the skin.
The body temperature is higher there, which means that pheromones will evaporate and dissipate around the person.
The French say that it is better to apply the scent to pulse points - on the wrists, dimples on the neck, the inside of the elbow, the earlobe, the upper part of the cheekbone.
A woman “recognizes” the specific smell of pheromones of the person she likes even through the aroma of perfume.
Perfumers advise that in order to maximize the influence of your own pheromones, you need to wear clothes made of natural fabric (unlike synthetic ones, they allow pheromone molecules to pass through) and kiss more.
Kissing is the best way to get closer to your lover's vomeronasal organ. Even a friendly kiss will increase the exchange of pheromones several hundred times.
Also, if you really want to find your true love, then ditch the antiperspirants and embrace the smell of your sweat.
In animals, the mating process occurs thanks to pheromones. A lioness senses a male tens of kilometers away, and in order to mate with the healthiest lion, she overcomes this distance.
In 2007, Russian academician Nikolai Myasoedov conducted an experiment. The rat's vomeronasal organ was removed - the results stunned scientists; the animal was unable to give birth at all.
Scientists prove that compared to animals, people do not react as openly to pheromones of the opposite sex. The sexual attraction that we feel under the influence of pheromones is completely controllable.
If you doubt your man's fidelity , smell him. It is thanks to pheromones that a woman can intuitively guess about her lover’s infidelity.
Because the pheromones of his mistress can stay on the body, especially on the hair, for up to 24 hours. Although he won't even realize it. A woman intuitively senses other people's pheromones because she feels disgust for this smell.
But psychologists say that in matters of marital fidelity you should not trust only your nose!
Photo: shutterstock.com
Do natural aphrodisiacs work?
Although the effect of pheromones has not yet been proven, non-pheromone scents, such as the smells of certain plants, have quite measurable effects on our physiology and mood.
Therefore, smells affect us in two ways. They can awaken long-standing memories and associations (for example, the smell of cut grass and strawberries - about summer), or they can act directly, without control and analysis - raise or lower blood pressure, cause a feeling of aggression or relaxation, enhance sexual feelings or calm.
General information
Men's eau de toilette with pheromones makes a man more attractive to the fairer sex. This effect is achieved due to the presence of special substances in their composition, which affect the smallest receptors in the female nose.
These receptors send a special signal to the brain. As a result, the source of pheromones becomes more attractive.
It should be noted that natural ingredients are odorless and highly volatile. Synthetic analogues are made with the same composition as natural ingredients.
Organic pheromones can also be added to perfumes. They are obtained from the extract of certain plants and gonads of cattle. In most cases, pork excretions are used to produce such products because they have a similar composition to human excretions. Experts have not yet been able to synthesize natural human pheromones because they have a very complex formula.
Perfume containing male pheromones has the following effect on the female sex:
- Increases a man's attractiveness in the eyes of women, increases his sexuality and sexual desire.
- Stabilizes the menstrual cycle in the fairer sex, which is required for full reproduction of offspring.
- Makes it possible to select excellent genetic material necessary for procreation.
As a result, a man becomes not just a pleasant companion and friend for a woman, but also a very suitable male. She begins to feel protected, as a result of which she develops a romantic mood and increases her sex drive. Pheromones were actively used in Ancient Egypt and Greece, but at that time they were available exclusively to wealthy and influential people.
It is noteworthy that men's eau de toilette with pheromones appeared in pharmacies relatively recently, but quickly gained wide popularity. These compounds can be added both to perfumes and to shampoos, colognes, lotions, gels and other hygiene products. Therefore, if necessary, you can purchase a whole set of formulations that contain pheromones.
The active ingredients of such products may be:
- androstenol;
- androstenone (the most popular pheromone);
- androsterone;
- androstadienone.
Sometimes musk and ginger are added to the composition in order to increase efficiency. When choosing eau de toilette, you need to pay attention to its aroma. Pheromones do not smell; the smell comes exclusively from perfumed additives.
Result:
— The main pheromones are derivatives of the hormones testosterone in men and estradiol in women.
They certainly play a role in changing other people's behavior. This is a proven fact. However, don't overestimate! Yes, a girl is more attractive to a man’s eye during ovulation, yes, men are more attractive when they have normal appearance and testosterone. But this is only true under other equal conditions. Sometimes it's easier to change some of your habits and the way you look at the world, which will make you a better person. Becoming better is success. And it automatically increases the necessary hormones.
I hope the issue was useful and interesting! Good luck and see you soon!)
