The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has cautioned the public, particularly young people, against using bitters and other substances as sexual enhancers, emphasizing that no products, alcoholic or non-alcoholic have been approved for this purpose in Ghana.
The Authority highlighted a growing trend among youth involving the use of unprescribed medications, herbal mixtures, alcoholic drinks, and bitters in attempts to boost sexual performance and energy levels. Many engage in this practice to impress partners, often overlooking the potential health risks associated with such behaviour.
Speaking on Thursday, March 19, at a workshop for herbal manufacturers and the Traditional Healers Association in the Ashanti Region, Ashanti Regional Head of the FDA, Nathaniel Nana Kwabena Nkrumah, expressed concern over the misuse of these substances, warning of serious long-term health consequences.
“The youth should desist from thinking that these bitters and alcoholic products provide better energy. Real energy comes from a healthy mindset and proper nutrition, not from bitters. No bitters in this country have been approved for use as a sexual aphrodisiac,” he said.
He also urged herbal medicine producers and media outlets to refrain from promoting or advertising such products as sexual enhancers, describing such claims as misleading and potentially harmful.
