Damiana
OTHER NAME(S):
Damiana Aphrodisiaca, Damiana Herb, Damiana Leaf, Damiane, Feuille de Damiana, Feuille de Damiane, Herba de la Pastora, Houx Mexicain, Mexican Damiana, Mizibcoc, Old Woman’s Broom, Oreganillo, Rosemary, Thé Bourrique, Turnera aphrodisiaca, Turnera diffusa, Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca, Turnerae Diffusae Folium, Turnerae diffusae herba, Turnera microphyllia.
Damiana:
Damiana (Turnera diffuse) is a plant species native to Mexico, Central America, and the West Indies. It is a small, aromatic shrub that belongs to the Turneraceae family.
The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its aphrodisiac and mood-enhancing properties. It is believed to boost libido, relieve anxiety and depression, and promote relaxation.
Damiana leaves are commonly consumed as a tea, and the plant extract is also available in supplement form. The active compounds in damiana include flavonoids, essential oils, and alkaloids, which are thought to be responsible for their therapeutic effects.
While damiana is generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts, it may cause mild side effects such as headaches, nausea, and digestive upset in some people. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and may interact with certain medications, such as diabetes drugs and blood thinners. As with any herbal supplement, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before using Damiana.
Uses:
Damiana has been traditionally used for a variety of purposes, and some of the most common uses of the plant include:
Aphrodisiac: Damiana is believed to enhance libido and sexual performance in both men and women. It is often used as a natural remedy for sexual dysfunction and to improve fertility.
Anxiety and depression: The plant has been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, and may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Digestive health: Damiana is sometimes used to relieve digestive problems such as constipation, indigestion, and stomach ulcers.
Respiratory health: The plant is thought to have expectorant properties and may be used to relieve coughs and congestion.
Energy and fatigue: Some people use damiana as a natural energy booster and to combat fatigue.
Weight loss: Damiana is sometimes used as a weight loss aid, as it is believed to help suppress appetite and promote fat metabolism.
It’s important to note that while damiana has a long history of use in traditional medicine for these purposes, scientific research on the plant is limited and more studies are needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks. It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement.
Precautions:
If you are considering using Damiana, there are some precautions you should be aware of:
Speak with a healthcare provider: It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement, especially if you are taking any medications or have a medical condition.
Dosage: Damiana is generally safe when used in moderation, but taking high doses or using it for extended periods of time may increase the risk of side effects. Follow the recommended dosage on the product label or as advised by your healthcare provider.
Allergies: If you are allergic to other plants in the Turneraceae family, such as marigolds or daisies, you may be more likely to have an allergic reaction to damiana.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Damiana is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may cause uterine contractions and could be harmful to a developing fetus.
Interactions: Damiana may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and drugs that affect the liver. Speak with your healthcare provider before using Damiana if you are taking any medications.
Surgery: Damiana may affect blood sugar levels and blood pressure, so it’s important to stop using it at least two weeks before surgery to avoid potential complications.
Overall, damiana is considered safe when used in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It’s always important to be aware of any potential risks and to speak with a healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement.
Dosing:
There is no standard dosing for damiana, as the appropriate dosage may vary depending on factors such as age, health status, and the reason for use. It’s important to follow the dosing instructions on the product label, or as recommended by a healthcare provider.
In general, the recommended dosage of damiana extract is usually 200-400mg per day, taken in divided doses. Damiana is also commonly consumed as a tea, with a recommended dose of 1-2 teaspoons of dried damiana leaves per cup of boiling water, steeped for 10-15 minutes. It’s important to strain the tea before drinking.
It’s important to start with a low dose and gradually increase the dosage as needed while monitoring for any potential side effects. It’s also important not to exceed the recommended dosage, as high doses of damiana may increase the risk of side effects.
As with any herbal supplement, it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before using Damiana, especially if you are taking any medications or have a medical condition.
FAQs:
Who should not take damiana?
Taking large doses of damiana may be harmful. Children, people with diabetes, or people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid taking it. Before taking Damiana, talk with your pharmacist or health
Does damiana increase testosterone?
Results showed that Damiana really can reduce aromatase, helping prevent Testosterone conversion to estrogen. Tellingly, though, this did not lead to higher testosterone levels in actual human data.
Can I take damiana with Ashwagandha?
Can you take ashwagandha and damiana together? Yes, ashwagandha can be taken with damiana. The two work as aphrodisiacs and improve libido.
Is damiana safe for kidneys?
D-mannose supplements should be used with caution if you have diabetes. It may make it harder to control your blood sugar. High doses of D-mannose may cause kidney damage.
Can you drink damiana everyday?
People can drink three cups (750 ml) per day. To use in tincture form, take 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (2–3 ml) three times daily. Tablets or capsules (400–800 mg three times per day) may also be used. Damiana is commonly used in herbal combinations.
What is damiana good for?
Damiana increases testosterone and possibly decreases estrogen in women making it a herb suitable only for women with a hormone imbalance. One of the active constituents of this herb is thymol, and it is this compound that is responsible for Damiana’s life-enhancing and stimulating effect on the mind and body.
Is damiana good for prostate?
Damiana – Damiana is a wild shrub commonly used in traditional medicine for its diuretic, stimulant, aphrodisiac, and laxative effects. This makes it very useful in the treatment of impotence and prostatic diseases both alone and combined with other herbs.
Is damiana good for your hair?
This means more lustrous healthy hair and less nail chipping and splitting. Damiana can be taken in combination with other herbs and nutrients to support collagen and connective tissue health. Damiana is a traditional herb of the Mexican and Central American regions that still has many uses today.
What is the best way to take damiana?
Traditionally, the leaves are dried and milled, so that they look like the tea you find in your tea bags. The leaves are then steeped in hot water until their goodness seeps out. You can also take damiana in a capsule or in liquid extract form, which is how we include it in Psychedelic Water.
Does damiana make you pee?
Damiana affects the urinary system. The leaf is characterized by stimulating the work of the system, stimulates the secretion of urine and bile. In addition, it has a disinfecting effect.
Does damiana increase fertility?
Damiana leaves are a natural fertility supplement that can stimulate fertility by acting on the pituitary gland. It is believed that it may increase sperm count in men and strengthen the ovum in women. Damiana has traditionally been used to help reduce delayed menstruation and balance menstrual cycles.
Can I take damiana at night?
Some damiana before bed relaxes one for love-making and promotes pleasant dreams (quite possibly erotic within the first seven days)! Three-dimensional effects and color appreciation may also be heightened.
