How the Brain Reacts When Falling in Love

Once released, the oxytocin molecules of romantic love and bonding love act differently. When oxytocin leaves the magnocellular neurons (romantic love oxytocin cells), it enters the bloodstream and circulates cerebrospinal fluid, which inundates the brain.

Wherever it encounters cells that have oxytocin receptors -adrenal glands, uterus, breast, and brain, love oxytocin binds to and activates those receptors.

Receptor responses vary by organ but include lactation, suppression of the stress response, and feelings of love, including attachment and euphoria.

"In contrast, your brain releases much smaller amounts of oxytocin from smaller neurons because you need to assess whether your caretaker will support you," he continued.

When oxytocin leaves parvocellular neurons (platonic oxytocin love cells), it is only delivered to specific synapses in the brain and does not wet the brain or enter the bloodstream.