Damiana
Research studies on the herb have been conducted in rats with positive results. There are no human studies on the herb by itself, however studies on one supplement ArginMax (containing ginseng, ginkgo, damiana, L-arginine, multivitamins and minerals) showed positive results. Marketed as an aphrodisiac and for treating erectile dysfunction, many products contain multiple ingredients such as yohimbe (yohimbine), catuaba, horny goat weed (epimedium), maca, ginkgo, L-arginine, ginseng, muira puama, tribulus terrestris, DHEA and vitamins and minerals.Historically, people have smoked damiana to get a "high" similar to smoking marijuana and this practice is continued up to today. 
Table
of Contents Facts
about this Herb
Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings Common Drug & Health Condition Interactions Dosage & How to Take It Evidence of Benefits (Leaf rating system)This is a quick summary. For full details see the article entitled Benefits of Damiana.
Facts on DamianaWhat is this herb?
It is an aromatic shrub that can be found growing in
Mexico, Texas and Central America.
Phytochemically, the plant contains more than 35 compounds including alkaloids, cyanogenic glycosides, steroids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and proteins. Some of the chemicals it contain are known to be psychoactive (affects the mind) and can create a sense of well-being and a euphoric state. What are some other names for this?
Damiana
Aphrodisiaca, Mexican Damiana, Turnera diffusa, Old Woman's Broom,
Herba de la Pastora, Turnerae diffusae folium
Suggested Benefits and Traditional UsesOrally
Topically (on the skin)
Inhalational (smoking)
Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings
Research
studies done on humans using products containing the herb (plus other
natural remedies) revealed minor side effects such as insomnia and
headaches. Higher doses may cause mild diarrhea.
In one study a single dose of 200 grams caused seizures. Studies done on human subjects in multi-ingredient supplements showed no significant side effects. Safety - In the US, FDA has given the herb a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status. No safety concerns were reported on research studies done on humans using this herb. Pregnancy & Lactation - There's no study to show whether this supplement is harmful or safe to use during pregnancy.
Common Drug & Health Condition InteractionsDiabetes / Anti-diabetic Medications - theoretical There
are mixed results in how the herb might affect blood sugar levels in
animals. One studies showed that it decreased blood sugar levels and
another showed no effect or an increase in blood sugar levels.
As there are no studies done on humans with diabetes, monitor blood sugar levels closely when starting or stopping this herb.
Dosage & How to Take It
The
herb comes as a tincture, capsules (tablets), powder or tea.
Suggested dosage by experts includes 2.5 mL (1/2 teaspoon) taken up to three times daily. As a powdered herb tea leaves use 18 grams in 500 mL of water taken up to three times daily. As a capsule, take 400 to 800 mg capsules up to three times daily. Related Articles and Resources Natural remedies to treat and cure erectile dysfunctionDiscover ways to boost sex drive using herbal remedies Return to Natural Remedies List |
