Concept in Definition ABC

A pheromone is a chemical substance that a living being emits to the environment in which it lives and that is perceived by another living being of the same species. In this way, a bitch releases pheromones from her body that are captured by a dog, in such a way that this perception sensory alters their behavior, for example their conduct sexual oriented reproduction. Pheromones provoke a physiological response, but it must be taken into account that not all species have the same chemical substances, since they are unique signals of each species.

In the case of mammals, pheromones are detected by the vomeronasal organ, which is located in the respiratory system. This organ sends signals to the animal's brain to react in a certain way. This means that the release of pheromones is the element that triggers some instinctual behaviors.

The role of pheromones in human sexual attraction

We are animals and consequently we share some behavior guidelines with others organisms

. When we feel a attraction sex by someone it is very likely that pheromones are acting on us. We perceive them unconsciously, but they undoubtedly play a leading role in our sexual inclination for other people. The secretions of our body include pheromones, which are painless but are detected by our vomeronasal organ.

By releasing our pheromones what we are doing is activating the communication with others, as they act as a warning mechanism. Obviously, it is difficult to determine the role of these chemicals in the processes of infatuation and of sexual attraction, since we humans are animals with cultural and rational aspects that intermingle with instinctual triggers.

In the field of cosmetics and perfumery, products with pheromones are made with the aim of enhancing sexual attractiveness. Those who market these products claim that they should be used after showering, as the water removes natural pheromones. However, from a strictly scientific point of view, no pheromone releasers have been precisely identified.

Other uses of pheromones

The question of sexual attractiveness is not the only one app of these chemicals. In fact, they are frequently used in the elimination of pests. In this sense, there are biologists who chemically alter the pheromones of those insects that cause pests in some plant species.

Photos: iStock - CoffeeAndMilk / hulyakarakas

Topics in Pheromones