Fly killer The aphrodisiac with a toxic reputation

The makers of ‘Spanish Gold Fly’ say that it is “100 per cent safe, natural and herbal”. However, for centuries its namesake the Spanish Fly, an emerald-green beetle, has had a reputation as an aphrodisiac. It secretes cantharidin, commonly used to treat warts. If consumed, the toxin can cause swelling in the urinary tract, mimicking arousal. However, the chemical is highly noxious and ingesting small amounts can be lethal.

In 1954, Arthur Ford, a manager at a chemical company in London, fell in love with a co-worker, Betty Grant. Having heard of the aphrodisiac effects of cantharidin, he added it to coconut ice sweets and gave one to Miss Grant. She died, as did another colleague who ate the sweets.