In The Alchemy of Love and Lust, Dr. Theresa Crenshaw, renowned sex therapist and researcher, unmasks the hidden agendas of our hormones as we progress though different sexual stages from adolescence through old age. A culmination of three decades of research, and incorporating the most up-to-date information, this book serves as a guide to our sexual peaks and cycles, the desires that drive and frustrate us, the bonds we make, the love we give and take, and the mystery of attraction - aspects all related to the ever changing "sex soup" of chemicals in our bodies.In addition to well-known hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone, Dr. Crenshaw introduces us to lesser-known potent influences such as PEA, DHEA, LHRH, oxyocin, and vasopressin. Their individual characteristics, as well as their interactions with one another, resolve some compelling questions: Is there truly "love at first sight"? Do people become addicted to each other through scent and touch? Can we avoid menopause entirely and increase our sexual pleasure? Which age groups are best-suited to form relationships? Can we determine our romantic destinies by altering our hormonal profiles? Do sex hormones increase our longevity and the quality of life?It's unsettling to think that molecules can manipulate our minds, and even our mates. But it's also liberating. These molecular agents can operate with abandon only to the extent they are not understood. Dr. Crenshaw provides us with the strategic information to identify their effects and gives us specific practical suggestions on how to modulate them. Read Less