Effect of ambrein on smooth muscle responses to various agonists

Taha, S.A.; Raza, Muhammad Asif; El-Khawad, I.E.

doi:10.1016/s0378-8741(97)00126-8

Cited by 11 publications

(14 citation statements)

References 10 publications

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“…1), a major constituent of Ambra grisea (Fig. 2), is used in Arab countries [3,4]. It is found in the gut of sperm whales, and its use in folk medicine is wide, ranging from treatment of headache and rheumatism (and indeed its anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive [5] have shown that this tricyclic triterpene alcohol increases the concentrations of several anterior pituitary hormones and serum testosterone, which in turn stimulate dopamine receptor synthesis and sexual behavior [4].…”

Section: Substances That Increase Libidomentioning

confidence: 99%

“…It is found in the gut of sperm whales, and its use in folk medicine is wide, ranging from treatment of headache and rheumatism (and indeed its anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive [5] have shown that this tricyclic triterpene alcohol increases the concentrations of several anterior pituitary hormones and serum testosterone, which in turn stimulate dopamine receptor synthesis and sexual behavior [4]. Ambrein also enhances central noradrenergic trafficking, which in turn stimulates sexual arousal, and it can antagonize the contractile action of various agents (acetylcholine, noradrenaline, prostaglandin, oxytocin) on smooth muscles [3].…”

Section: Substances That Increase Libidomentioning

confidence: 99%

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Aphrodisiacs past and present: A historical review

Sandroni

2001

Clinical Autonomic Research

123

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The drug Viagra (sildenafil) has drawn public attention to aphrodisiacs. The search for such substances dates back millennia. Aphrodisiacs can be classified by their mode of action into 3 types: those that increase (1) libido, (2) potency, or (3) sexual pleasure. Various substances of animal and plant origin have been used in folk medicines of different cultures; some have been identified pharmacologically, allowing for understanding of their mechanisms of action. For increasing libido, ambrein, a major constituent of Ambra grisea, is used in Arab countries. This tricyclic triterpene alcohol increases the concentration of several anterior pituitary hormones and serum testosterone. Bufo toad skin and glands contain bufotenine (and other bufadienolides), a putative hallucinogenic congener of serotonin. It is the active ingredient in West Indian "love stone" and the Chinese medication chan su. The aphrodisiac properties are likely of central origin, as are the other effects of the drug. For increasing potency, Panax ginseng used in traditional Chinese medicine, works as an antioxidant by enhancing nitric oxide synthesis in the endothelium of many organs, including the corpora cavernosa; ginsenosides also enhance acetylcholine-induced and transmural nerve stimulation-activated relaxation associated with increased tissue cyclic guanosine monophosphate, hence the aphrodisiac properties. For increasing sexual pleasure, cantharidin ("Spanish fly") is a chemical with vesicant properties derived from blister beetles, which have been used for millennia as a sexual stimulant. Its mode of action is by inhibition of phosphodiesterase and protein phosphatase activity and stimulation of beta-receptors, inducing vascular congestion and inflammation. Morbidity from its abuse is significant. The ingestion of live beetles (Palembus dermestoides) in Southeast Asia and triatomids in Mexico may have a basis similar to cantharidin. It is of paramount importance for the physician to be aware of the options available to help his or her patients, and to advise them in using the correct drugs while avoiding "miracle" remedies that could be potentially harmful.

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Section: Substances That Increase Libidomentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Substances That Increase Libidomentioning

confidence: 99%

Aphrodisiacs past and present: A historical review

Sandroni

2001

Clinical Autonomic Research

123

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“…The triterpene alcohol Ambrein is a major constituent of Ambergris, formed in the intestinal tract of the sperm whale (Physeter catodon) (Taha, Raza, & El-Khawad, 1998). Historically, its use ranged from perfume preparations to the treatment of health conditions.…”

Section: Ambreinmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Historically, its use ranged from perfume preparations to the treatment of health conditions. In traditional Middle Eastern medicine, Ambergris has been used to treat headaches, rheumatism, common colds, and constipation due to its alleged anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties (Sandroni, 2001;Shamloul, 2010;Taha et al, 1998). It has also been used to enhance sexual performance, with recent studies supporting its validity as a natural aphrodisiac.…”

Section: Ambreinmentioning

confidence: 99%