Alove potion (poculum amatorium)[1] is amagical liquid which supposedly causes the drinker to develop feelings oflove towards the person who served it. Another common term to describe the potion,philtre, is thought to have originated from the ancientGreek termphiltron ('love charm'), via the French wordphiltre.[2]
The love potion motif occurs in literature, mainly in fairy tales, and in paintings, drama, music and mythology.
In theMiddle Ages, extracts fromnightshades were used ashallucinogens, and to make supposed love potions andflying ointments. Such plants may have includedbelladonna,angel's trumpets,jimsonweed,black henbane,European scopolia orautumn mandrake, which contain alkaloids (atropine andscopolamine, which are hallucinogenic in higher doses) characterized by a narrowtherapeutic index.[3]
Some attempts to create love potions have led to overdose or death[4][5] where the preparations were not standardized for the content of potent compounds.[3]
Other allegedaphrodisiacs includeSpanish fly, lizard necks, flowers, mashed worms, sacramental bread, and "sweaty cakes" (made from human hair, glandular excretions, skin and blood).[6]
The use of love potions dates back to ancient times, where they were believed to possess the power to inspire romantic desire or bind two individuals together. In Ancient Greece, potions often contained plants likemandragora (mandrake), which were thought to have mystical properties due to theiranthropomorphic roots. Medieval Europe saw a rise in love potion use among commoners and nobles alike, with witches and herbalists crafting them using herbs likebelladonna andhenbane, despite the associated risks of toxicity.[7]
In folklore, love potions often served as plot devices, symbolizing the dangers of tampering with free will. In theArthurian legends, the story ofTristan and Isolde revolves around a love potions that inadvertently binds the two into a tragic romance.[8]
In Renaissance Europe, Spanish fly (derived from the blister beetleLytta vesicatoria) were widely used despite their toxic effects, which could cause severe inflammation and kidney damage.[9]
Modern research has explored parallels between ancient love potions and the role of hormones in human attraction.Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," plays a critical role in bonding and social behaviors. Studies suggest that oxytocin release during physical touch or eye contact can strengthen emotional connections, mimicking the perceived effects of love potions in creating intimacy and desire.[10]
Some ingredients historically believed to have magical properties, like chocolate and certain herbs, also have mild mood-altering effects due to their chemical composition. For example,phenylethylamine in chocolate is known to trigger the release ofendorphins, contributing to feelings of happiness and euphoria.[11]