Aphrodisiacs In Nigeria: A Shortcut To Pleasure Or Death?
From discreet exchanges in market stalls to overt advertisements online, the conversation around aphrodisiacs, often referred to as sex enhancers, is gaining visibility in Nigeria. Once a taboo subject, their usage has become more popular, driven by economic challenges, societal evolution, and the pursuit of pleasure. Alarming studies reveal that over 40% of these products’ users in Nigeria are young adults aged 21 to 30.
A Booming Demand and Its Dangers
The demand for aphrodisiacs in Nigeria is surging. While some see these substances as a remedy to revive strained relationships, others view them as confidence boosters. Regardless of the motive, the market for these “love enhancers” is thriving, often at great personal risk. Many users overlook the potential dangers associated with unregulated products flooding the market. The lack of oversight by regulatory bodies like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) exacerbates this problem. Vendors without any pharmaceutical expertise openly sell these substances, with products such as “Bruntashi” (Hausa Viagra), “Coco Samba,” “Jekonmo,” and “Monkey Tail” available at street corners.
These enhancers come in various forms, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, animal-based concoctions, and even peculiar mixtures like garri and paracetamol. Their accessibility contributes to their misuse, with some users experiencing severe health consequences, including death, after their use.
The Real-Life Stories Behind the Statistics
The personal stories of those who use these stimulants illustrate the severity of the issue. John Egbe, a journalist, relies on herbal supplements to sustain his marital obligations. Exhausted from long workweeks, John uses products like “Coco Samba” to satisfy his wife, despite experiencing side effects like migraines and dependency. He confesses that without these enhancers, he feels incapable of fulfilling his marital duties.
Dele Ologbo’s experience is different yet equally concerning. Struggling with erectile dysfunction after the birth of his first child, he turned to aphrodisiacs to address his condition. The use of these substances became a crutch, masking the underlying health issues that required professional medical intervention.
For some young people, the allure of aphrodisiacs stems from a desire to showcase sexual prowess. Isaac Ibe, a 23-year-old, consumed an excessive dose of a stimulant called “Colorado” to impress three women, an act that nearly cost him his life. His prolonged erection led to a public altercation at a hotel and highlighted the physical dangers of overuse.
Public Health Concerns
Healthcare professionals are increasingly alarmed by the prevalence of unregulated aphrodisiac use. Dr. Saliu Abdulmalid Niran, a consultant urologist, highlights a significant rise in cases of priapism—a painful, prolonged erection that can result in permanent damage if untreated. According to Dr. Niran, many users are unaware of the ingredients or side effects of these products, which often contain harmful substances.
“Most young people using aphrodisiacs don’t need them,” says Dr. Niran. “They’re influenced by exaggerated social narratives about sexual performance, leading to unnecessary and harmful experimentation.” He warns that misuse of these substances can result in severe health issues, including liver and kidney damage, low blood pressure, and, paradoxically, long-term erectile dysfunction.
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NAFDAC has been actively working to combat the proliferation of illegal aphrodisiacs. In Sokoto, the agency recently confiscated products worth ₦12 million. These unregistered substances, often adorned with explicit imagery, pose significant public health risks. According to NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Christianah Adeyeye, many herbal medicines, while potentially beneficial, are not entirely harmless. She cautions that some of these products are effectively “shortcuts to death.”
Beyond physical health risks, the use of aphrodisiacs can have profound psychological and social consequences. Dependency on these substances often leads to strained relationships, financial burdens, and diminished self-esteem. Studies have shown that curiosity and peer pressure play significant roles in the initial experimentation with aphrodisiacs, especially among young adults. Over time, this can escalate into addiction and risky behaviours, including substance abuse and multiple sexual partners.
Expert Recommendations
Dr. Niran emphasises the importance of seeking professional medical advice for sexual health concerns. “When patients present with erectile dysfunction, we conduct a thorough history and recommend tailored treatments,” he explains. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management are often effective first steps. For more severe cases, prescribed medications or surgical interventions may be necessary.
He stresses the distinction between regulated treatments and unregulated substances. “Medically prescribed drugs come with documented dosages and management plans, reducing risks. Unregulated aphrodisiacs, on the other hand, expose users to unknown dangers.”
Addressing the Root Causes
The widespread use of aphrodisiacs in Nigeria underscores deeper societal issues, including stress, economic hardship, and unrealistic expectations about sexual performance. Tackling these root causes requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the risks of unregulated aphrodisiacs and the importance of seeking professional medical advice.
- Strengthening Regulation: Enhancing the capacity of agencies like NAFDAC to monitor and control the distribution of these substances.
- Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Encouraging regular exercise, balanced diets, and stress management as natural ways to improve overall well-being and sexual health.
- Open Dialogue: Addressing societal pressures and myths around sexuality through community discussions and counselling services.
The rising use of aphrodisiacs in Nigeria is a complex issue rooted in economic, social, and psychological factors. While these substances promise temporary solutions, they often come with severe health risks and long-term consequences. It is imperative for individuals to prioritise their health and seek professional guidance rather than resorting to unsafe shortcuts. By fostering awareness, strengthening regulations, and addressing societal pressures, Nigeria can begin to tackle this hidden scourge and safeguard the well-being of its citizens.
This article was originally posted by https://www.vanguardngr.com/
Content Credit| Ajibola Emmanuel Adebayo
Picture Credit | https://pmnewsnigeria.com/
