Uses of Damiana

Damiana is a traditional herb native to Mexico and southern Texas. Traditionally used as a digestive aid and sexual stimulant, damiana helps to increase blood flow in the body. The fragrant plant contains rich volatile oils that are thought to be the source of the plants stimulating properties. Turnera aphrodisiaca and Turnera diffusa are the two species of damiana that are used for healing purposes.

History and Geography

• Damiana grows wild in the rocky lands of southern Texas, the deserts of Mexico and Baja California. This fragrant yellow herb has a long history of use among the native and ancient peoples of northern and central Mexico. The herb was traditionally used to stimulate the sexual performance and response of both men and women. Damiana was also used as an herbal tonic and liquor. Sipped after dinner, it was found to stimulate digestion and circulation.

Active Compounds and Parts Used

• The active constituents of damiana are many small fragrant parts called terpenes. These terpenes are the volatile oil that is used in healing, according to the University of Michigan Health Systems. The volatile oil of damiana also holds the strong fragrant scent that emanates from the flowers and leaves. The herb damiana contains flavonoids, tannins, a bitter brown substance called damianin, as well as several essential oils. Traditional preparations of damiana use the leaves. The leaves are tinctured to extract the healing properties or made into a liquor for the same purpose.

Sexual Stimulant

• Damiana's most common and traditional use is as a sexual stimulant and aphrodisiac. It increases blood flow, which will revitalize the sexual organs and helps to relieve problems of erectile dysfunction. Damiana is a stimulant, which will increase energy and vitality, both of which are important for a healthy libido. Both men and women benefit from the added oxygenation of the blood for stimulating sexual response. Herbalists often prescribe Damiana as a tonic for this purpose.

Health Benefits

• Damiana extracts, tinctures and liquors are used to stimulate the circulatory system and oxygenating the blood. The added stimulation and blood flow improves mood disorders such as depression, nervousness and anxiety and increases energy and stamina. Poor blood flow can increase lethargy and chronic exhaustion so taking a stimulant such as damiana may help to restore energy and vitality. The added stimulation of the system also helps to aid digestion and relieve constipation. Damiana may also help to regulate menstrual cycles and sooth menstrual discomfort.

Considerations and Dosages

• Damiana can be made into a tea and sipped two to three times a day. To make tea, use a quarter teaspoon of dried damiana leaves in a cup of boiling water. Let steep for 10 minutes before drinking. The university of Michigan Health Systems recommends taking ½ to ¾ teaspoon of damiana tincture when needed. Taking large quantities of damiana can cause headaches, insomnia and, possibly, liver damage. In small amounts, damiana is a stimulant, but large quantities should be avoided as overstimulation of the system can be harmful. Whenever taking herbal medicines, it is advised to consult a physician if you are pregnant or nursing or if you are taking any medications.