The Sultan's Sex Potions - Arab Aphrodisiacs in the Middle Ages

Daniel L. Newman

Summary

Arabic erotic literature has a long and rich history, which goes back as far as the ninth century. Far from being the pursuit of prurient pornographers, eroticism and sexuality received considerable attention from scholars.
Written by Nasir al-Din al-Tusi (1201 - 1274), one of the leading scientists of the age, The Sultan's Sex Potions is part of a relatively small group of works devoted to aphrodisiacs, as well as sexual stimulants, sexual practices and positions. Sober and measured in tone, the work was intended to be a manual, which would allow the patient to dispense with the services of a physician. Written at the request of the ruler, its potions, electuaries, syrups and enemas enjoyed a 'royal warrant of appointment' to arouse the lust for coitus and enhance sexual potency.
This bilingual volume includes a critical edition of three manuscripts (Berlin, Cairo and Glasgow) and is accompanied by a translation, as well as an introduction to Arabic erotic literature, a biography of the author and extensive indexes.

Available since: 12/18/2025.

Print length: 288 pages.

Other books that might interest you

Marlene Dietrich's ABC's

Marlene Dietrich

A collection of the icon’s surprising and heartfelt thoughts on topics A-to-Z, plus recipes and photos—a wonderfully addictive scrapbook for fans. From the wonderfully varied and witty mind of Marlene Dietrich comes an alphabetized collection of her most zany, honest, and heartfelt thoughts. Offering her take on a range of ideas, people, and items, Marlene Dietrich’s ABC is an unprecedented glimpse into one of history’s brightest and most enigmatic stars. Nothing is too small or grand for Dietrich’s unique eye. From her entry for hardware store—“I’d rather go to a hardware store than to the opera”—to her entry for egocentric—“If he is a creative artist, forgive him”—she transforms both the mundane and the mysterious into snapshots of her own spirit. Complete with photos from her vast career, Marlene Dietrich’s ABC is an unexpected and addicting treat.

Show book

Peter Kay’s Diary: The Monthly...

Peter Kay

Peter Kay returns with his most entertaining autobiography yet!
The Collector’s Edition: The first hardback print run will feature an exclusive foiled board design. Order now to avoid missing out!
‘Think of this autobiography as a twelve-month subscription to my memories and meanderings across the calendar year. With each month reflecting a different phase of my life, complete with dodgy decisions, bizarre plot twists and more than a few laugh-out-loud moments.’
Peter Kay is back – and funnier than ever – with his most heartfelt and hilarious autobiography yet. Take a whistlestop journey through his life, in a year. From hitting the gym in January, falling in love in February and a nostalgic trip to Ireland at Easter, to buying his first house in May. Then it’s summer holidays at Butlins, a September wedding and, before you know it, he’s packing away the Halloween decorations and sipping a glass of Bailey’s in front of the Christmas telly.
With his trademark warmth and wit, Peter offers a unique take on the calendar year – in a way only he can – cementing his place as one of Britain’s best-loved comedians and a true national treasure.
In this Sunday Times bestselling book, Peter Kay, a true national treasure, takes you on a journey through his life, filled with humour and heart. From his early days in the world of comedy and entertainment, to his rise as a popular celebrity, his memoirs are a testament to his unique form of performing arts.
For fans of Danny Baker (Going on the Turn), Billy Connolly (Rambling Man), Sarah Millican (How to be Champion), Romesh Ranganathan (As Good As It Gets), and Miriam Margolyes (Oh Miriam!).
HarperCollins 2025

Show book

The Millionaire in the Box - How...

Waleed Saleh

This audiobook is narrated by an AI Voice.   
The Millionaire in the Box: How Nissan's Carlos Ghosn Escaped Japan to Lebanon 
When success becomes a curse and achievement transforms into deadly enmity, witness the extraordinary tale of Carlos Ghosn—the Lebanese-born business legend who rescued two automotive giants from bankruptcy only to find himself trapped in an international conspiracy. 
From humble immigrant beginnings to becoming the celebrated CEO of both Renault and Nissan simultaneously, Ghosn was hailed as "The Savior" and "The Man with the Golden Touch." His revolutionary management style transformed failing corporations into global powerhouses, earning him manga fame and standing ovations in Japanese restaurants. 
But behind the boardroom triumphs lay a web of cultural tensions, political intrigue, and corporate betrayal. When Japanese authorities arrested the 68-year-old millionaire on fabricated financial charges, subjecting him to months of solitary confinement and psychological torture, Ghosn faced an impossible choice: surrender to a rigged judicial system with a 99.4% conviction rate, or risk everything in the most audacious escape of the modern era. 
This gripping audiobook reveals the shocking truth behind Ghosn's legendary escape—hidden inside a musical instrument box, crossing international borders while authorities hunted him. More than a business biography, this is a modern epic exposing the dark underbelly of corporate power, international politics, and the price of challenging established systems. 
Discover how cultural arrogance led to spectacular downfall, why the French government abandoned their citizen, and the ingenious planning behind history's most talked-about corporate escape. A tale that combines boardroom drama with airport thriller suspense, revealing how one man's refusal to accept injustice sparked a global diplomatic crisis.

Show book

3 Stories About - Mothers - A...

Guy de Maupassant, Fyodor...

There is something about the number 3.    
 
The Ancient Greeks believed 3 was the perfect number, and in China 3 has always been a lucky number, and they know a thing or two.   
 
Most religions also have 3 this and 3 that and, of course, in these more modern times, three’s a crowd may be too many, except when it’s a ménage à trois.  It seems good things usually come in threes. 
 
Whatever history and culture says WE think 3, a hat-trick of stories, is a great number to explore themes and literary avenues that classic authors were so adept at creating. 
 
From their pens to your your ears. 
 
01 - 3 Stories - Mothers 
02 - Mother Sauvage (La Mere Sauvage) by Guy de Maupassant 
03 - Hide and Seek or Pliatki by Fyodor Sologub 
04 - A Dreamer by Barbara Baynton

Show book

Cocomania - How Coco Gauff Won...

Dan Wolken

At the lowest point of her tennis career, Coco Gauff learned she didn’t need to be perfect to become a US Open champion. 
 
From the moment she picked up a tennis racquet, Coco Gauff was destined for greatness. Her parents believed so strongly in her future, they turned their lives upside down to make sure she had every opportunity to play the game she loved.  
 
One of the world’s most prominent coaches thought so highly of Coco’s talent, he brought her to train in France before she was even old enough for high school.  
 
And when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon as a fifteen-year-old, she beat her idol Venus Williams in the first round, becoming an international sensation in the blink of an eye. 
 
But the road from teenage tennis prodigy to Grand Slam champion isn’t easy. As Coco started her journey on the Women’s Tennis Association Tour she found it difficult to deal with the expectations of becoming America’s next superstar. She also struggled to beat the top players in the game—number one ranked Iga Swiatek most of all. 
 
To break through and become a Grand Slam champion, Coco had to overcome disappointments, criticisms, and a loss of confidence in her game. This is the story of how perseverance, self-belief, and a willingness to try new things led to a historic run of success in the summer of 2023 that culminated with a US Open title.

Show book

The Shining Gateway -...

James Allen, Tim Zengerink

What if you could illuminate a personal gateway that leads to inner strength, virtuous living, and enduring peace? 
James Allen’s uplifting text explores the quest for self-mastery by emphasizing positive thought, ethical conduct, and spiritual harmony. Adapted for modern readers, The Shining Gateway underscores that each of us carries the capacity for profound transformation—a radiant journey that begins with how we choose to think, feel, and act. 
What You’ll Discover in This Modern Translation: 
- Key virtues that propel you toward higher living 
- Techniques for sustaining a positive, resilient mindset 
- The link between inner discipline and outer harmony 
- Encouragement to see challenges as catalysts for self-growth 
Imagine walking a bright, purposeful path every day—one in which your highest ideals guide each choice, cultivating a sense of deep fulfillment and tranquility. James Allen’s timeless guidance helps you unlock the shining gateway within. 
Enter the radiant path. Get your copy now and kindle the inner light that leads to self-mastery and peace.

Show book