Scientists Discover Being In Love Is Very Similar To Being Drunk

Want To Find Out What "Love" Feels Like? Science Says Get Drunk

Beyonce appears to be one step ahead of science, at least as far as her song 'Drunk In Love' goes.

Scientists have said that falling in love feels very similar to being really drunk. Don't say Bey didn't warn you.

Researchers from the University of Birmingham found that the "love hormone" known as oxytocin works on the brain to suppress feelings of fear, anxiety and stress, just like being tipsy.

In a paper published in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, scientists concluded that a little oxytocin, taken using a nasal spray, increases altruism, empathy, generosity and the propensity to trust someone.

So to those who've never been in love, you're just a shot away from finding out what it feels like.

The "love hormone," -- so called because it helps develop maternal bonding and influences how you would react to bae -- works on a different set of receptors in the brain to alcohol but achieves the same effect.

If you're hoping that the point of the research is to supplement your Bacardi with a pocket sized bottle of oxytocin, then you'll be disappointed.

Dr Steven Gillespie, a researcher at the University of Birmingham said: I don't think we'll see a time when oxytocin is used socially as an alternative to alcohol. But it is a fascinating neurochemical and, away from matters of the heart, has a possible use in treatment of psychological and psychiatric conditions.

Perhaps this is not such a bad thing, as there are some not-so-lovely side effects to the "love hormone" that bring out the worst in people.

According to the researchers, oxytocin could also make people more aggressive, more envious of competitors and more boastful. Think boozed up friends, or acquaintances, who turn nasty on a night out.

While you're right to feel a little disappointed by this revelation, this research does arm you with a sensible plan of action next time someone you know moans about wanting to fall in love - just throwback to a drunken night out.

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