Dr. Mercola July 02 2008 5,638 views
According to scientists, watermelon has ingredients that deliver Viagra-like effects to the body’s blood vessels, and may even increase libido.
Natural, beneficial ingredients in fruits and vegetables are known as phyto-nutrients. In watermelons, these include lycopene, beta carotene and citrulline. Among the benefits of citrulline is the ability to relax blood vessels, much as Viagra does.
When watermelon is consumed, citrulline is converted to arginine. Arginine is an amino acid that has beneficial effects on the heart and circulation system, and maintains a good immune system. Arginine also boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has.
Arginine also helps the urea cycle by removing ammonia and other toxic compounds from your body.