Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Parts used and where grown: The leaves of damiana were originally used as medicine by the indigenous cultures of Central America, particularly Mexico. Today the plant is found in hot, humid, climates including parts of Texas.
In what conditions might damiana be supportive?
depression impotence (male infertility) sexual hormonal problems
energy tonic stimulates muscular contractions the intestinal tract bring oxygen to the genital area.
Historical or traditional use: Damiana has been hailed as an aphrodisiac since ancient times, particularly by the native peoples of Mexico.1 Other folk uses have included asthma, bronchitis, neurosis, and various sexual disorders.2 It has also been promoted as a euphoria-inducing substance at various times.
Scientific Support
It is important to note that only one scientific study exists in the literature that directly examines any physiological functions or effects of damiana. The essential oil from damiana leaves contains small fragrant substances known as terpenes. A small body of research exists which associates terpenes with several other substances comprising the sexual communication chemicals known as pheromones. Out of four studies mentioning terpenes in relation to sexual behavior, three involve insect mating behavior, while one study found that male white-tailed deer produce terpene-containing pheromones in greater amounts during the breeding season (not exactly compelling “love potion” evidence unless you’re a deer or a bug). Furthermore, damiana leaves also contain alkaloids that have been associated with insect pheromones in a variety of studies. Despite this possible link, scientific studies have not been conducted to associate any causative effect of damiana with regards to pheromone production in humans
Perhaps the most viable scientific evidence for the age-old use of damiana as an aphrodisiac involves a single recent study demonstrating that damiana extract binds to the progesterone receptor in human breast cancer cells. Despite the fact that oregano extract was found to bind tightly as well, the ability of damiana extract to affect progesterone detection may explain claims that damiana supplementation can increase libido (importantly, many progesterone-binding extracts can have either a neutral or antagonistic effect instead of an agonistic effect). A variety of scientific studies associate progesterone deficiency, particularly in post-menopausal women, to decreased libido. Thus, if the binding of damiana extract to progesterone receptors indeed mimics the action of progesterone, damiana could theoretically lead to increased libido in women with a progesterone deficiency. Furthermore, because progesterone is one of the major hormones involved in the female reproductive cycle, by the above rationale, one may infer that by possibly affecting progesterone detection, damiana extract could ease the cyclical depression and anxiety often associated with the menstrual cycle.
Because of the changes in hormone levels throughout a women's lifetime, women may experience a variety of symptoms such as: P.M.S, menstrual irregularities, weight gain or loss, anxiety, menopause, and/or the lack of desire or energy for sex. Herbal remedies for treating various problems associated with the female reproductive organs have been used for centuries. Yohimbe bark, Licorice root, Damiana, Saw palmetto, Siberian ginseng, Histidine, Vitamin B-6, and Niacin have worked for years in treating female hormonal needs.
Additional Information: Damiana's reputation as an aphrodisiac is mainly due to its compounded effect in the listed systems: astringing in the urinary tract, acting on the nervous system, and clearing toxins through the genito-urinary system. Damiana is an excellent assisting herb in formulas designed as aphrodisiacs, as mild stimulants, to increase energy or to reduce respiratory irritation.
Active constituents: Most research has been done on the essential oil of damiana, which includes numerous small, fragrant substances called terpenes. As yet, it is unclear if the essential oil is truly the main active fraction of damiana. The leaves also contain the antimicrobial substance arbutin, alkaloids, and other potentially important compounds.3
How much should I take? To make a tea, add 250 ml (1 cup) boiling water to 1 gram of dried leaves; allow to steep ten to fifteen minutes. Drink three cups per day. To use in tincture form, take 2-3 ml three times per day. Tablets or capsules may also be used in the amount of 400–800 mg three times per day. Damiana is not usually used alone; it is believed to be more effective when combined with other herbs of similar or complementary activity.
Are there any side effects or interactions? Higher doses of damiana may induce a mild sense of euphoria. The leaves have a minor laxative effect, which is more pronounced at higher intakes, and may cause loosening of stools.4
References:
1. Bradley PR, ed. British Herbal Compendium, vol 1. Bournemouth, Dorset, UK: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1992, 71-2.
2. Duke JA. CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1985, 492.
3. Bradley PR, ed. British Herbal Compendium, vol 1. Bournemouth, Dorset, UK: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1992, 71-2.
4. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. Middlesex, UK: Viking Arkana, 1991, 516-7
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