Molecular condoms have just been proposed as the next method of birth control in UC Berkeley's most recently published study.
The study shows how two chemicals found in plants -- lupeol from aloe vera and pristimerin from thunder god vine -- contain non-steroid chemicals that act like steroid chemicals, preventing sperm from breaking through a 'protective wall' of cells that form around the egg.
The breakthrough research sounds nearly too good to be true, proving effective results for both sexes without any hormonal side effects. Referred to as 'universal birth control,' this plant-based remedy can be taken by any sex, as either emergency contraception -- before or after intercourse -- or as a long term method of birth control, administered through a skin patch, or a vaginal ring.
Plant-Based Contraceptives
'Molecular Condoms' are a Plant-Based Method of Birth Control
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Contraceptives - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop plant-based contraceptives as an alternative to traditional hormonal methods.
2. Non-steroid Chemicals - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the use of non-steroid chemicals found in plants for various applications in medicine and healthcare.
3. Universal Birth Control - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a universally effective method of birth control without hormonal side effects.
Industry Implications
1. Pharmaceuticals - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate plant-based compounds into pharmaceuticals to develop new contraceptive options.
2. Healthcare - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce plant-based contraception as part of comprehensive healthcare and reproductive services.
3. Biotechnology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Harness advancements in biotechnology to enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of plant-based contraceptives.