Article Contents
Oxytocin is a neurotransmitter produced by the brain particularly in the hypothalamus. In an easy language to understand, oxytocin is known as the love hormone. Oxytocin occurs naturally in the body. However, oxytocin is also prescribed as a drug for women giving birth to increase contraction during labor.
But, why not naturally trigger the body to produce more oxytocin naturally? Fortunately, there are natural ways to boost oxytocin in the body. Just like the other neurotransmitter such as dopamine and serotonin, these natural ways are totally safe, as well.
Natural Ways To Boost Oxytocin
Before we explore the ten natural ways of making the brain increase oxytocin secretion, let us quickly learn more the basics of it. Oxytocin plays a significant role in women, particularly during childbirth and breastfeeding.
Touch alone can stimulate the brain to secrete more oxytocin. This neurotransmitter also essential in relationships and how we treat others, hence, its common name as the love or bonding hormone. Some people call it the cuddle chemical.
Whatever you call it, oxytocin plays an important role and contributes to one’s sense of happiness and love. Moreover, women secrete more oxytocin than men. Probably, this is one of the reasons women are more loving than men.
As a matter of fact, giving men with low social competence a dose of oxytocin in a nasal spray is helpful.
Oxytocin has also been tested in studies of autism spectrum disorder in both adults1 and children2. And, in one meta-analysis review3, oxytocin may be helpful in enhancing relationships.
So, how do we increase oxytocin in the body naturally? Well, let’s explore the 10 most common ways to achieve it.
10. 1. Physical Touch or Contact
Physical contact such as hugging4 and kissing increases oxytocin naturally. Moreover, a more intimate contact such as having sex also increases oxytocin.
In fact, this is one of the health benefits of sex, an increase in oxytocin. A loving relationship triggers the release and activates the increase of oxytocin. The same is true that happens during an orgasm.
