About Yohimbe

Yohimbe is an African evergreen tree, used traditionally to enhance sexual functioning in men and women. The bark of the yohimbe tree is made into a tea or dried for dietary supplements. One active chemical extracted from yohimbe---yohimbine---is also used in prescription medications to treat erectile dysfunction.

Effects

• Yohimbe bark contains many natural chemical ingredients, the most active of which is yohimbine. Yohimbine enhances circulation to tissues of the reproductive tract---a woman's clitoris and the specialized tissues in a man's penis that, when enriched with blood, create an erection. Yohimbe is used mainly by men to produce harder, more long lasting erections. Yohimbe also affects chemicals in the brain that can increase sexual desire in both men and women.

Prevention/Solution

• Yohimbe can be taken as a tea, boiled from the bark of the yohimbe tree. Dietary supplements are also available. Yohimbe can be effective in very small doses, and because of the high risk of side effects, you should never take more yohimbe than you need to achieve an effect and you should always consult with a doctor or alternative health care practitioner before using it. Start with small doses (six to eight milligrams daily---standardized for yohimbine content. Never take more than 20 milligrams a day unless you have consulted with your doctor.

Misconceptions

• Even though yohimbe is a natural herbal medicine it can still cause adverse effects in the body. Yohimbe can enhance sexual functioning within a few days or take a few months to have an effect on the body. Unfortunately, the more yohimbe you take, and the longer you take it, the greater your risk of side effects. If you experience an increased heart rate, sweating, nervousness or other symptoms, stop using yohimbe and talk to your doctor.

Warning

• Yohimbe is a stimulant and can cause heart palpitations, dizziness and insomnia. It can also increase blood pressure and anxiety. Symptoms disappear if you stop taking yohimbe, but may be exacerbated if you are taking high doses of yohimbe long-term or if you use caffeine or other stimulants with it. Yohimbe may interact with some prescription medications, including antidepressants. Talk to your doctor before taking yohimbe if you are taking any prescription medications or if you are being monitored for any health condition such as heart disease or diabetes. Due to the side effects associated with yohimbe, it should never be used by children or during pregnancy.

Considerations

• Sexual dysfunction may be a sign of a more serious health condition. Depression or other psychological disorders can reduce libido and affect sexual performance in men and women. Increased stress from illness, financial or relationship difficulties can also affect sexual functioning. Impaired circulation from heart disease or diabetes can lead to erectile dysfunction in men. Talk to your doctor if you have been experiencing serious reductions in your sex drive for several months or more or if you have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.