The Culprit of Love

Even wonder what causes the feeling of love, in terms of Chemistry?

Its Phenylethylamine (PEA).

It has a formula of C₈H₁₁N

 

IUPAC Name: Phenylethan-2-amine

Phenylalanine is a α-amino acid, which is the precursor to the release of phenylethylamine (PEA). When you stare into one's eyes, or get in contact with one's skin, it may trigger the release of PEA, if the one is your love. This is the forces of attraction between a boy and a girl.

PEA is a neurotransmitter in the limbic system of the brain, which travels along the neurons, into the bloodstream and causes the heart to beat faster, blood pressure rises, the face and skin flushes, the eyes flutter, and the pupils dilate. This natural amino acid causes the on-top-of-the-world, or "high" feeling in us.

 When the level of PEA is high, lovers would feel that "love is blind", perceiving his/her loved ones' good sides and discarding the bad sides. On the other hand, when the level of PEA is low, one may feel depressed.

Chocolate and strawberries contain PEA. Small amount of chocolate can make us happy, but large amount of chocolate will only lead to headache. This is because the PEA is quickly broken down by our body system so that it cannot reach our bloodstream.

When the relationship between a boy and a girl is stable, the level of PEA will then reduce back to normal, allowing endorphins to take over.