Damiana - Side Effects and Benefits

Botanical Name of Damiana: Turnera Aphrodisiaca and Turnera diffusa
Other Common Names:
Damiane, oreganillo, the bourrique, Mexican damiana, Mexican holly, damiana de Guerrero, damina.

Habitat:
Damiana is a small shrub with aromatic leaves that grows in Mexico, Central and South America, and the West Indies. Although it is still found in the wild in certain areas, most of the damiana used in herbal remedies today comes from Mexican and Latin American herbal ranches.

Plant Parts Used:
The leaves of the damiana plant are used for medicinal purposes. These are usually dried but can be used fresh as well.

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Therapeutic Uses, Claims and Benefits of Damiana

This herb has traditionally been used as an aphrodisiac. Modern research supports this use as well. It has been shown to increase sperm count in males and the strength of eggs in females, help with erectile dysfunction and anorgasmia. It has also been shown to help increase blood flow and stimulation in sexual organs.
Damiana has anti-depressant properties and helps to boost the overall mood and bring about a general feeling of well-being.
This medicinal herb has hormonal balancing properties. It has been shown to help with the hormonal imbalances common with menopause in women.
Damiana is also used for treating mood disorders. It helps level hormonal responses and boost mood.
This herb has been used as a central nervous system depressant to help with CNS disorders and modify and control the nervous response.
It has been shown to help boost energy and reduce the effects of exhaustion.
Constipation is another condition that has been treated with this herb.
Traditional uses for damiana include; anti-anxiety, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, cough supressant, mild laxative, digestive stimulant, expectorant, diuretic, and astringent.

Dosage and Administration

Damiana can be administered in an infusion of the dried leaves, as a fluid extract from the leaves or a capsule of the crushed dry leaves.

Customary daily dosages are:
Infusion: 1 cup of the infusion 2 to 3 times daily.
Fluid Extract: 2 to 4milliliters twice daily.
Capsules: 3 to 4 grams twice daily.

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Damiana

Damiana is relatively safe in regular doses, although the long term effects of Damiana use have not been tested. Damiana does have a traditional background as an abortive and therefore should not be taken during pregnancy. The safety of this supplement in children has not been tested so it should not be used by children. Damiana does have a mild hypoglycemic effect so those on diabetes medication or those who suffer from hypoglycemia must use caution with this supplement. Damiana may interfere with the body�s absorption of iron, so iron levels must be monitored while on this herb.

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