What substances makes intimacy better

Intimacy and sexual experience are complex and influenced by a mix of psychological, emotional, and physiological factors. While certain substances have been reported by users to enhance aspects of intimacy and sexual pleasure, many lack robust scientific evidence and some carry significant health risks. 
Natural Hormones & Neurotransmitters
The body naturally produces a variety of chemicals that play a key role in sexual desire, arousal, and bonding: 
  • Oxytocin: Known as the “love” or “cuddle” hormone, it is released during touch, intimacy, and orgasm, promoting feelings of trust, empathy, and emotional bonding between partners.
  • Dopamine: This neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure and reward-seeking behavior. High levels increase attraction and sexual desire and contribute to feelings of euphoria.
  • Testosterone and Estrogen: These sex hormones are crucial for maintaining libido in both men and women. Higher levels often correlate with increased sexual desire.
  • Serotonin: This chemical helps regulate mood. While it contributes to overall well-being, high levels can actually suppress sexual motivation. 
Foods and Herbal Supplements (Aphrodisiacs) 
Many foods and herbs are considered aphrodisiacs in traditional medicine, though scientific evidence varies: 
  • Oysters: Rich in zinc, which helps the body produce testosterone and may improve sperm count.
  • Chocolate: Contains phenylethylamine, a brain chemical linked to love and lust, and also boosts serotonin, improving mood.
  • Ginseng (especially Red Ginseng): May enhance erectile function and sexual arousal by improving blood circulation and nitric oxide production.
  • Maca: This root vegetable has been used to enhance fertility and sex drive, with some studies showing an increase in desire in both men and women.
  • Horny Goat Weed: Contains compounds that may increase blood flow to the genitals, often used in traditional Chinese medicine for erectile dysfunction.
  • L-arginine and L-citrulline: These amino acids help produce nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow to the genitals, potentially aiding with erectile dysfunction. 
Medications
Prescription medications are available for diagnosed conditions like Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in women or erectile dysfunction (ED) in men: 
  • FDA-approved medications for HSDD: Include flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi).
  • Erectile Dysfunction medications: Sildenafil (Viagra) and similar drugs work by increasing blood flow to the penis.
  • Hormone therapy: Estrogen or testosterone therapy may be prescribed (testosterone off-label for women) to address hormonal imbalances contributing to low libido, particularly after menopause. 
For professional and safe advice on improving intimacy, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified sex therapist.