Eating watermelon can have the same boosting effect on a man’s libido as Viagra. Researchers from Texas A&M University in the United States concluded that the secret ingredient called citrulline which is found in the flesh and rind of the fruit can help relax the body’s blood vessels; a Viagra pill produces a similar effect.

Dr. Bhimu Patel, the leading author of the study said that citrulline is converted to an amino acid called arginine which boosts nitric oxide and relaxes blood vessels, without any drug side-effects. Beneficial elements found in watermelon and other fruits and vegetable, could also improve the heart and the circulatory and the immune system and help people who suffer from obesity or type 2 diabetes.

“Watermelon may not be as organ specific as Viagra but it’s a great way to relax blood vessels without any drug side-effects,” researchers said.

“Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction and maybe even prevent it,” said Bhimu Patil, a Texas researcher.

Citrulline is highest in yellow-fleshed types.

Penelope Perkins-Veazie, a U.S. Department of Agriculture researcher, said Dr. Patil’s research is valid but people would need to eat about six cups of watermelon to get enough citrulline to boost the body’s arginine level. This may lead to another problem because you tend to go to the bathroom more due to the diuretic effect of watermelon.

Another problem is the amount of sugar in watermelon which could cause cramping. Researchers said they would like to do further studies on how to reduce the sugar in watermelon.