Hormones. We all have them and sometimes they drive us crazy, especially those that control our feelings and actions.
Guys, you know that girl from last weekend who you have the urge to call? Girls, you know that guy who you just can't seem to get off your mind? The same one that you told your best friend didn't mean anything because you weren't looking for a serious relationship? You drive yourself insane trying to figure out why you can't possibly stand to be away. Both men and women have felt that undeniable instant attraction. The good news: Instant attraction doesn't equal crazy. The bad news: You may be hooked. The worse news: Oxytocin made the decision for you.
Oxytocin is a hormone and a neurotransmitter located in the brain of male and female mammals released during pleasurable contact including, hugging, kissing, holding hands and orgasms during sexual intercourse. This hormonal cupid is produced in the hypothalamus, released into the blood by our pituitary glands and secreted by neurosecretory nerve endings. Oxytocin can ignite feelings of intimacy and motivate intense orgasms. It is also responsible for stimulating lactation in nursing mothers and driving maternal instincts. Some tests have shown that oxytocin levels are higher in women in committed relationships and sometimes in men in committed relationships, as well. Though men do produce oxytocin, some research has shown that their levels tend to be lower than those of women, perhaps leaving them less vulnerable to uncontrollable attachment. Other research, however, has found that men may have equal levels of the hormone thanks to other hormones that boosts the effects of oxytocin. So while this pesky little hormone may be to blame for many unexpected broken hearts, it may also be linked to your parents' happy marriage.
Researchers are currently testing oxytocin's ability to be marketed commercially. Though the hormone has been shown to have positive effects, such as increasing trust in relationships and strengthening bonds, there is a fear that these feelings can be abused. Some scientists, for instance, fear that the hormone could be used as a date rape drug by inducing false feelings of security.
One commercial product that hit the shelves recently is Oxytocin Accelerator. Released by HBC protocols, a homeopathic supplement producer, this product is said to boost oxytocin production. Not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Oxytocin Accelerator is a spray that combines 13 homeopathic (natural) ingredients that increase natural oxytocin production to induce relaxing and euphoric sensations in men and women. This product can be sprayed under the tongue during interpersonal contact, on clothing, bedding and even in the air - potentially bringing you closer to someone and boosting levels of intimacy for both parties.
Or, you could choose just to let the oxytocin flow without such assistance. Close your eyes and send up a plea for good luck.
Jade Hall is a fourth-year College student. She can be reached at j.hall@cavalierdaily.com.
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