Do Spanish Fly or other aphrodisiacs really work?


Spanish fly or cantharides as it is sometimes called, has been used for purposes of seduction. Its use is dangerous however, since it is extremely potent and there is only a small difference between effective and harmful doses. Too much Spanish Fly can cause painful urination, fever, sometimes bloody discharge and permanent damage to the kidneys and genitals. Spanish fly is a poison that can burn the mouth and throat, lead to urinary infections and scarring, and sometimes even cause death.

People and cultures since ancient times have attributed sexual powers to various plants, foods, animals and devices. Oysters, which contain zinc, which increases the sperm count and mobility, are one of the favorites and green M&M’s are a more recent urban myth. However there is no conclusive evidence that these or other things work.

Chicago’s Smell and Taste Research Foundation have discovered some interesting facts. One is that the smell of black licorice and the smell of doughnuts have caused increased penile blood flow by 32% and pumpkin pie and lavender increased it to 40%. Vaginal blood flow was increased when smelling a combination of candy and cucumbers. When smelling cherries, barbecue meat, and men’s colognes there was a decrease. Again the evidence is not conclusive.

The most powerful aphrodisiac is the human imagination. Anything that you believe strongly enough to be; will be an aphrodisiac for you. When something increases the sexual tension between partners will increase the likelihood of increased desire and arousal.