Although laboratory proof is good, there is something very compelling about anecdotal input.

Since 1959, scientists have been able to isolate the chemical substances that every living organism is believed to secrete to send various signals. Research has found that this sort of hormonal secretion can form bonds between mothers and their offspring, between members of an insect community, and between mating couples in many species. There are many forms of these hormones and many signals, from sounding the alarm to finding food sources.

The involvement of male and female hormonal signals in mating is well-documented in bacteria, insects, sea creatures, and land mammals. Although it is not considered a scientific fact that these factors work in humans, most feel that it is reasonable to think that they are part of the mysterious forces that attract one person to another. The strength and frequency of the hormonal secretion is believed to explain why some people have lots of what is called 'sex appeal'.

Those who believe that a topical application of essential or carrier oils that contain actual human hormones will attract others make up the market for commercial products sold as sexual stimulants. There are many products that you can see online, with customer testimonials that report success with the use of them in social situations.

One of the problems is that the effect of many of the hormones is fleeting, requiring reapplication to keep the effect alive. However, since making a first impression is the start of any social connection, the lasting effect may be irrelevant. There are also species in which the substance does not dissipate rapidly, such as butterflies and sea urchins.

In short, there is reason to believe that human hormones can be applied topically to attract the opposite sex but no firm proof. It comes down to personal choice. If you feel like trying one of the perfumes or colognes on the market, you may be able to judge for yourself if you suddenly seem to be attracting more notice from those around you.

In the dating game, nothing ventured - nothing gained. Do pheromones work? Do they work for you? Many people would like to know what you learn by your personal experience.