Lucknow, Sept 28: Lipsticks are passe. Luvsticks are in. Luvsticks — the first functional lipstick formulation that can arouse sensual feelings, induce sleep or even fight fatigue — will be available in the Indian as well as the international market from January 2004.
The National Botanical Research Institute has transferred the technology developed by its ethno-pharmacology department to Ayur Herbal Collections that will introduce the Luvsticks in sleek international casings from early next year.
Dr Pushpangadan, director, NBRI, says, "We have developed 17 shades for Luvsticks but Ayur is free to develop more shades provided it does not disturb the formula. Luvstick is the name we have given to this formulation but Ayur can give it a different brand name of its choice."
"Luvstick has been developed using different herbs found in the Himalayan region and natural essential aromatic oils and was initially seen as a mood enhancer and anti-depressant. The fact that it works as a potent sexual stimulant too is something of a bonus for us," says Dr Shanta Mehrotra, deputy director of the ethno-pharmacology division. "Luvsticks will help the user fight depression and fatigue too and could emerge as a boon for those who have a stress-filled lifestyle."
Luvstick, incidentally, is being touted as an ideal lip-smacking cosmetic for men since its use has an effect that is akin to that induced by drugs like Viagra. According to scientists, the aromatic properties in the Luvstick have a definite anti-impotency effect and are sure to benefit those with arousal prob-lems.
For men, the Luvsticks will be sold in colourless packs. NBRI scientists are not wary about the acceptability of the product among the males. "Fragrance, in general, is believed to enhance sex appeal and with men in India becoming increasing beauty and health conscious, it is only a matter of time before they reach out for Luvsticks," says Dr Mehrotra.
Earlier, the NBRI had added a new colour to Holi with its eco-gulal that had none of the harmful side effects of the normal gulal sold in Indian markets. Instead, the eco-gulal was said to give a glowing effect to the skin of the user and was an instant sellout in the market this year.