Damiana

Turnera diffusa

Main active constituents

The main constituents of damiana include: Albuminoids, alpha-copaene, alpha-pinene, arbutin, barterin, beta-pinene, beta-sitosterol, calamenene, caoutchouc, chlorophyll, 1,8-cineole, cymene, cymol, damianin, essential oil, gamma-cadinene, gonzalitosin-i, hexacosanol-1, luteolin, quinovopyranosides, tannins, tetraphyllin b, thymol, triacontane, and trimethoxyflavones

Physiological Effects

Parts Used: Leaves

Damiana has an ancient, erotic reputation, particularly amongst Mexican Indians - Damiana leaves were not only prescribed as an aphrodisiac, but also as a tonic for overall health. There are records of it being used by the Mayans as an aphrodisiac as well as to treat “giddiness and loss of balance”. It was also used by the Aztecs as a tonic that was believed to improve general health and wellbeing.

Damiana Benefits

Male Sexual Health Especially indicated for alleviating problems of achieving and maintaining erections, Damiana also works to relieve stress and anxiety related to fears of inadequate sexual performance. Studies have shown that consuming the plant works to slow down the digestive tract and instead rushes oxygen to genital areas. This helps men to achieve erection much more easily and maintain it for longer periods of time. Yet another study claims that use of Damiana leads to greater sensitivity in the erogenous zones, especially the genitals, which in turn may help men to experience greater sexual pleasure.

Female Sexual Health Damiana had long been thought of as an exclusively male aphrodisiac, until family and integrated medical practitioner Cynthia Watson published her book, “Love Potions, a Guide to Aphrodisiacs and Sexual Pleasures”. In it, she presented evidence indicating that androgens such as testosterone might be effective for stimulating so-called “frigid” women, a characteristic some researchers suspect may be caused by an androgen deficiency. Watson also said she saw a renewed interest in sex among women who used Damiana. In addition she wrote, “It is also reported to induce erotic dreams when drunk at bedtime. I can also tell you that Damiana makes my dreams at least a little unusual, with qualities worthy of an abstract Walt Disney production”.

Antidepressant 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. Many herbalists prescribe Damiana for mild to moderate depression, anxiety and nervous exhaustion. Its stimulating and restorative properties make it a valuable herb for anxiety and depression occurring together – as can often happen as a result of long term stress.

Digestive Health This versatile herb will promote digestive health by facilitating the breakdown of fats and sugars in the digestive system. This mechanism is beneficial as it increases the body’s nutrient absorption rate, thus ensuring the body receives the most nutrients found in the food we eat.

Damiana also encourages the cleansing of the gastrointestinal tract, forcing the body to eliminate harmful chemicals and toxins that would normally hinder the digestion process. This natural herb can also be used to treat dyspepsia or impaired digestion as it actively slows down the digestive process.

Contraindications/Precautions

The leaves have a minor laxative effect and may cause loosening of the stools at higher amounts. Until more is known about damiana's effects on the female hormonal system, it should be avoided during pregnancy.

Disclaimer

This information is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.