Originally Posted by
1averagejoe
What does it do? I know it's potassium nitrate, found in some fertilizers, stump removers, and used in some foods. But what exactly does it do to someone?
It used to be given to inmates and soldiers to reduce their libido. I don't know if there is an understood mechanism of action, or if its even proven to work except anecdotally. If it does have an effect, its probably through some kind of inhibition of NAS (nitric oxide synthase)--for the biochemists in the house. You need NO for an erection (that's how viagra works).
DON'T actually try this at home. I expect it can be quite toxic; potassium can affect the heart & muscle function. Nitrate in high quantity will mess up your liver.