Testosterone is a proven aphrodisiac. It is not The Perfect Aphrodisiac that solves all sexual problems, but it generally increases libido, and can have dramatic effects in some people.

Although testosterone is thought of as a male hormone, both men and women produce it - women have lower amounts, but it definitely affects their sexual metabolism.

Most doctors will prescribe testosterone gel or patches, but only if blood tests indicate low levels. Why not hand out testosterone like candy? Excess T causes side effects, like acne, irritability, and liver problems. Too much of this hormone also increases the risk of several types of cancer, especially the prostate. Taking large doses of exogenous (externally produced) testosterone usually causes the testes to shrink and shuts off the body's own source of Testosterone.

Natural testosterone boosters include:

• Exercise
• Zinc
• Boron

The most commonly prescribed forms of Testosterone for men are applied to the skin - this is obviously more convienent (and less painfull) than injecting testosterone. But recent research suggests that when men apply testosterone to the skin, much of it is converted to estrogen by aromatase enzymes in the skin. Some doctors prefer either weekly injections, or testosterone implants - small strips implanted under the skin that deliver a time-released dose of the hormone. Testosterone implants typically are put in for one month at a time.