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Biologically-inspired intimacy products: exploring cultural significance and sensory innovation
Lorenzo Martini
1,2, Igor Feszak3, Piotr Brzeziński3
1University of Siena, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnologies, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy, 2C.R.I.S.M.A. Inter University Centre for Researched Advanced Medical Systems, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy, 3Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Slupsk, Slupsk, Poland
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Sir,
The formulation and usage of products designed to simulate certain physical attributes associated with intimate experiences have historical and cultural underpinnings extending back to the Victorian era. These products, traditionally employed to mimic characteristics linked to perceived purity, have evolved from rudimentary solutions such as douches and bulbs, widely available in England and France up to the early 20th century. It is reported that their usage was originally prevalent among sex workers, who used these products to create the illusion of chastity, appealing to societal norms that often prized such attributes [1].
Modern iterations of these products take the form of aqueous gels or jellies containing alum and citrus-based fragrances. These products, compactly packaged for discretion, cater to diverse communities, including women in regions such as Senegal, Mauritania, Ghana, Gambia, Mali, and Burkina Faso. They are marketed as non-toxic and safe for use, with an emphasis on their utility in enhancing intimate experiences.
One such product obtained from a market in Ouagadougou was identified as an ovule containing the following components:
Citric or tartaric acid: Contributing to astringency. Alum: Serving as the active agent to create tightening effects. Butyrospermum parkii butter (shea butter): A solid fat at room temperature that becomes creamy at body temperature, enhancing lubrication and comfort.
The active ingredients, alum combined with citric or tartaric acid, interact chemically to replicate sensations and effects linked to specific physiological conditions. Additionally, the olfactory dimension of these products enhances their appeal, drawing on studies about the neurochemical impacts of scents on human bonding and attraction [1].
Challenges in Formulating Products for Diverse Scenarios
Formulating products for scenarios involving multiple partners or individuals with diverse preferences introduces complexities. The role of pheromones, such as androstenone (a derivative of testosterone with variable olfactory perception), highlights the nuanced interaction of biological and synthetic compounds in these products. Research shows that androstenone activates neural fields related to social cognition, reinforcing its significance in formulating products designed to enhance intimacy [2].
Similarly, certain pheromones associated with female characteristics are noted for their musky quality, resembling the scent of worn clothing. This olfactory signature is associated with the influence of pheromones on human arousal and emotional responses, particularly in individuals experiencing depressive symptoms or influenced by specific psychological patterns [3].
Specific Formulations for Diverse Intimate Preferences
The authors explored the use of vinegar-based solutions as primary components, selecting different types based on intended use:
Rice vinegar: Recommended for individuals engaging in intimate relationships with men. Its constituents, such as cis-aconitic acid and maleic acid, react with vaginal urea to produce aspartic acid, which generates musk-like odors.
Cider vinegar: Suggested for individuals engaging in intimate relationships with women, as its high malic acid content interacts with urea to produce barbituric acid, emitting a fragrance reminiscent of unripe apple flowers.
Calvados vinegar: Proposed for individuals in same-gender intimate relationships with men, given its high malic acid content, which reacts with citric acid and urea to create a copolymer with a sour, citrus bouquet.
This olfactory signature reflects the influence of pheromones on human arousal and emotional responses, particularly in individuals with diverse orientations and unique preferences, accommodating variations across personal and social contexts.
Cultural and Subjective Implications
The societal reception of these products varies across cultural contexts. For instance, users report enhanced sensations during intimacy, including increased comfort and appealing olfactory effects. Some individuals in same-gender relationships describe these products as offering a unique and refreshing experience, accompanied by positive sensory feedback.
These products may also enhance emotional connections, particularly in contexts where cultural or personal significance is ascribed to traditional notions of purity or key milestones in intimate relationships [1].
Conclusion and Future Directions
This investigation has highlighted the cultural and biological dimensions of intimacy-related products. While current formulations show promise in addressing specific user preferences, further research is needed to refine these products, particularly for more complex scenarios involving diverse interactions. The interplay between organic acids, pheromones, and user experience remains a valuable area for interdisciplinary exploration, integrating chemistry, biology, and cultural studies. Insights into neurochemical reactions to olfactory stimuli, such as those linked to androstenone and related compounds, could inform the development of more effective and culturally respectful formulations [2–4].
Consent
The examination of the patient was conducted according to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.
REFERENCES
1. Berglund H, Lindström P, Savic I. Brain response to putative pheromones in lesbian women. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2006;21:8269–74.
2. Feldman R, Gordon I, Sharon O. Maternal and paternal plasma, salivary, and urinary oxytocin and parent-infant synchrony:considering stress and affiliation components of human bonding. Dev Sci. 2011;14:752–61.
3. Gulyás B, Kéri S, O’Sullivan BT, Decety J, Roland PE. The putative pheromone androstadienone activates cortical fields in the human brain related to social cognition. Neurochem Int. 2004;44:595–600.
4. Kuffel SW, Heiman JR. Effects of depressive symptoms and experimentally adopted schemas on sexual arousal and affect in sexually healthy women. Arch Sex Behav. 2006;35:163–77.
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