This is an interesting question, I had to do some research to find the answer. Several chemicals are involved.
Whether or not we are attracted to someone is determined by the hormones of stress and reward including dopamine, norepinephrine cortisol and serotonin.
Lust is determined by the hormones oestrogen and testosterone.
All what Sinead said, however, she forgot a very very important hormone called Oxytosin. It is a major hormone important in social interactions, child birth, wound healing, etc…. when someone strokes your skin and you get this nice feeling, its is because your body releases Oxytocin, which makes you feel secure and happy. Oxytocinh is often called the ‘lovers hormone or cuddle hormone’.
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Emma commented on :
Oh yes, and oxytocin. Mothers produce oxytocin when they are breast-feeding. This creates a strong bond of love between mother and baby.