Damiana

Damiana is a shrub belonging to the Passifloraceae family that bears small and aromatic flowers when it reaches upto 2 meters in height. It blossoms from early to late summer. The flowers turn into the fruits whose taste resembles figs.

Damiana leaves possess aphrodisiac properties that are helpful for enhancing sexual potency. It also treats anxiety, stress and mild depression. Let us discuss on its health benefits on detail:

1. Treat sexual problems

Not only male, it is effective for women as well. It assists men to regain sexual prowess whereas it benefits women sexuality. Damiana provides positive effect on libido due to which it enhances the flow of blood to genital regions. The research has been only made on laboratory rats which show that Damiana could effectively treat sexual dysfunction. Though number of animal studies has been carried out still human studies should be made to recommend it as an aphrodisiac.

2. Calms mind

Damiana is an aid for nervous disorders and stress. It is not confirmed to be effective for anxiety and stress but the presence of damianin helps to provide a calming effect on nervous system. It is used to enhance mood for centuries. It is useful for treating stress associated symptoms such as bed wetting, upset stomach and also calm the nerves. It helps to enhance energy and also increases stamina that helps to lethargy and fatigue.

3. Cure stomach ulcers

Damiana helps to treat gastric complaints such as gastric ulcers. The arbutin content of plant helps to treat two types of ulcer. It possesses anti-ulcer activity and antioxidant properties.

4. Supports weight loss

It acts like a mild laxative which helps to loosen stools and also cleanses system. A study shows that the combination of Damiana, guarana and yerbe mate provides thermogenic effect that helps to suppress appetite. It also makes the patients feel full faster and slows gastric emptying.

5. Treat infections

It is an effective aid for bladder problems by easing the bladder problems as well as urination.

6. Supports digestion

Damiana assist the process of breakdown of sugars an fats in digestive system that enhance the absorption of nutrients. It clears digestive tract from toxins that could interfere in digestion and makes feel sick. It is effective for treating constipation and indigestion due to the presence of laxative properties.

7. Treat breast cancer

Cancer has become the major cause for death in the world that affects over six millions of lives in a year. Its treatments are very expensive. In traditional medicine, Damiana is used as an aphrodisiac, stimulant and diuretic. The stems and leaves are used for infusion or flavoring. The studies have shown the antioxidant, antibacterial, estrogenic, prosexual and antiaromatase activity of Turnera diffusa Wild. The study was carried for evaluation of cytotoxic effects of extract as well as organic fractions on five tumor cell lines. The methanolic extract showed greater activity on breast cancer cells.

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Precautions 

• It may cause cyanide poisoning.
• Prevent excessive use due to the presence of arbutin and cyanogenetic glycosides.
• It may cause genitourinary irritation and tetanus like rigidity.
• The excessive use of Damiana causes hallucinations.
• In diabetic patients, it might interrupt with the blood sugar.
• Nursing mothers, pregnant women and people having liver issues should not use Damiana.
• It should not be used two weeks before the scheduled surgery.

How to Eat

Leaves are used to make tea and are used to add flavor to liqueurs.

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Damiana – ancient aphrodisiac
Herbs and supplements can be a great aid to improve your libido naturally, and when it comes to this topic there is no herb better known than Damiana. Damiana (Turnera diffusa) has been historically known for its use as a natural female aphrodisiac and relaxant. Originally from Central and South America, its use dates back to the time of the ancient Aztecs and Mayans. It works by increasing circulation and sensitivity to female organs. Its pro-sexual effects are due to flavonoid compounds present in the leaves. Damiana can be taken on its own or in combination with other herbs for an extra boost such as gingko (Ginkgo biloba).

Effect of damiana in post-menopausal women
A placebo-controlled study with 108 women (age 22-73 years) with low sex drive looked at the effect of a supplement on the market containing damiana, ginkgo and additional vitamins and minerals. The women taking the supplement reported, after 4 weeks, a significant increase in sexual desire (72% more) and satisfaction with overall sex life (68% more), compared with the placebo group. Interestingly, the group that seemed to benefit the most from the supplement were post-menopausal women. There is also good news for men, as animal studies have shown that damiana can reduce impotence in males.

How to take damiana
Damiana can be taken as a tea up to three times a day. Prepare approximately 1 teaspoon (6-12 g) of damiana dried leaves in a mug of boiling water, leave to brew for 10 minutes before drinking. You can also take it in capsule or liquid extract form. The appropriate dose can depend on several factors such as age, body composition and presence of any other conditions. As with most herbal remedies, it is best to work with a functional doctor or naturopath to help you determine which is best for your needs.

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In bed with Damiana