DOPAMINE
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Our brains consist of about 1011 interconnected nerve cells, called neurons. They are all able to process signals. These signals are transferred via neurotransmiters: small chemicals like dopamine. Dopamine "(neuro)transmits" joy, happiness and excitment. Together with the very similar norepinepherine and in presence of hormone Phenylethylamine (PEA) is responsible for a temporary, curable brain illness generally known (and decribed in the literature) as "being in love". |
TESTOSTERONE | Stereoid, principal human hormone.
My view: Makes men look different from women. Men's high testosterone makes them grow beards and develop deeper voices. Testosterone is the hormone related to sexual desire in men and -- surprisingly, in women, though in much smaller amounts. It appears to have its effect in the desire or arousal phase of the sexual cycle, but not any further. Even if it flows by you in rivers, testosterone revs sexy fantasies, but not the equipment. Get some dopamine first.
Conclusion: A nice chemical to have.
Another view: (quoted with not a single change ! )
"Ban Testosterone! If there were ever a substance that needed to be controlled and condemned, it is testosterone. Forget about marijuana and heroin. Testosterone is the true root of evil. Studies have shown that testosterone is the leading cause of violent behavior in humans. Testosterone is not just a male problem, either. Violent women in prison have been proven to exhibit higher levels of testosterone than their non-violent counterparts. Testosterone causes the growth of body hair, and male pattern baldness as well. It also causes an increase in sexual tenacity. It's hard to find any benefits of testosterone in our modern society. Many of the "male traits" that are produced by testosterone are now obsolete. Hairiness is out of style. Violence is unnecessary and unsophisticated. Sexual compulsion causes overpopulation and the spread of disease. Imagine world peace. Imagine the eradication of testosterone!"
Conclusion: A nice chemical to ban. |
Phenylethylamine (PEA)
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Phenylethylamine (commonly dubbed the `love molecule') is a natural chemical suspected of causing the `high' experienced by lovers.
Phenylethylamine is a trace amine in the brain that releases mesolimbic dopamine into the pleasure centers.
It has a distinct binding site yet no specific neurons.
When taken in unusually high dosages, phenylethylamine can cause the same effects as amphetamine produce in the brain during times of pleasure.
Some behavioral effects include increased confidence, exhilaration, lowered fatigue, and general sense of well-being.
The theory is that production of phenylethylamine in the brain can be triggered by something as simple as the meeting of eyes or the touching of hands.
The heady emotions linked to racing pulses, sweaty palms and heavy breathing can be clinically explained as the result of an overdose.
The discovery of this chemical in chocolate led to the belief that chocolate makes a person feel as if he/she is in love.
Nevertheless, the euphoric response can be antagonized by AMPT or by DA receptor-blocking neuroleptic drugs.
Both amphetamine and phenylethylamine can cause a delay in sleep onset and reduction in sleep time.
Sounds familiar? Are you in love?
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