Find Me A Cure

Botanical Name: Turnera diffusa

Plant Family: Turneraceae

Common Names: Turnera aphrodisiaca

Origin: South America, West Indies, Mexico and Texas

Damiana is indigenous to Central America and Mexico. It grows in hot, humid climates such as those found in Texas, the Caribbean and southern Africa. The plant can reach a height of approximately two feet, with smooth, green leaves, yellow flowers and a many-seeded, globular fruit that has a resinous coating. The leaves are harvested during the flowering season and are used medicinally.

Blooming with small yellow flowers, the shrub has an odor somewhat like chamomile, which is due to an oil present in the plant. The leaves have traditionally been made into a tea which was used by native people of Central and South America for its reputed aphrodisiac effects.

Damiana is also a European name. In the country of Bulgaria it is simply a female version of Damian. In Greece the name Damiana refers to a person who is tame and subdued. Additionally, the name Damiana is somewhat common in Latino/Spanish locations.

Damiana leaves Contains:

1. A greenish volatile oil with a smell similar to Chamomile

2.Caffeine

3.Damianin, amorphous bitter principle

4.resin

5.tannin
Herbal Medicine
In herbal medicine, damiana is used to treat conditions ranging from coughs, to constipation, to depression. The herbal supplement is reputed to help with Energy, Emphysema, low Estrogen, Frigidity, Hot Flashes, Impotency, Infertility, Menopause, Parkinson’s Disease, PMS, Inflammation of Prostate, Lou Gehrig’s disease, and more dealing with reproductive organs in both males and females.

Recreational
Also, a traditional Mexican liqueur, sometimes used in margaritas is made from this herb. Its makers claim that Damiana liqueur was used in the first margarita.
Tradition: Damiana was used in Wicca ceremonies:

1.As an aphrodisiac
2.To produce visions by burning the herb
Action:
Aphrodisiac [an agent for arousing or increasing sexual desire or potency]
astringent [a binding agent that contracts organic tissue, reducing secretions or discharges of mucous and fluid from the body]
diuretic [an agent that increases the volume and flow of urine which cleanses the urinary system]
Laxative [an agent promoting evacuation of the bowels; a mild purgative]
purgative [an agent that produces a vigorous emptying of the bowels, more drastic than a laxative or aperient] (mild)
Stimulant [an agent that excites or quickens the functional activity of the tissues giving more energy]

Tonic [an agent that tones, strengthens and invigorates organs or the entire organism giving a feeling of well-being] acting directly on the reproductive system .
Damiana is used for:

Brain and Nervous System Conditions
Anxiety and depression
Brain tonic
Nervous debility, combined with Saw Palmetto
Bervousness
Nutrient for nerve tissue
Tonic for the nervous system
Cardiovascular Conditions
Hypertension
Female Conditions

Regulates the female cycles
Genitourinary Tract Conditions

Urinary problems
Reproductive Conditions

Damiana is reputed to be a male aphrodisiac, as it has an action on the male reproductive system similar to the male hormone, Testosterone, but is beneficial to both sexes.

Benefits the reproductive organs
Sexual debility, combined with Saw Palmetto
Stimulates the sexual appetite
Stimulates the sexual organs

Why do we need damiana? What is it used for?

Since ancient times, many cultures have used damiana as an aphrodisiac, or to treat sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction and low libido. It is also used for conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, and has been promoted as a substance that induces euphoria naturally.

The active ingredient in damiana is its volatile oil, which contains tannins, resins, and small, fragrant substances called terpenes. Test-tube studies have shown that damiana extracts bind to progesterone receptors, which has led to the belief that it may be useful for some female health problems. However, no tests have been conducted on humans.

How much damiana should I take?

Damiana is commonly used in herbal preparations. As a standalone product, however, many practitioners recommend a cup of damiana tea, which is made by adding one cup of boiling water to 1/2 teaspoon of dried leaves and letting the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes. People may take three cups per day, or damiana tablets or capsules (400-800 mg) three times per day.

What forms of damiana are available?

In addition to dried damiana leaves, tablet, capsule and tincture forms are available at many health food stores and specialty stores.

What can happen if I take too much damiana? Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should I take?

Due to a lack of research, the German Commission E does not recommend damiana for its traditional uses. The leaves have a minor laxative effect and may cause loose stools or diarrhea at higher amounts. It may also interfere with iron absorption. Damiana should not be taken by women who are pregnant or lactating.

At present, there are no well-known drug interactions associated with damiana. As always, make sure to consult with a qualified health care provider before taking damiana or any other herbal product or dietary supplement.

Click to learn more about Damiana

TOXICITY FACTORS

Damiana is low in toxicity factors, but because of irritant action on the genitourinary tract, it may aggravate preexisting urinary tract diseases. Caution needs to be taken in such cases. In the West Indies the tea is taken to discharge the placenta after childbirth. Therefore, it may be wise to restrict its use during pregnancy.

DRUG PRECAUTIONS AND INTERACTIONS

Known Interactions: None

Possible Interactions: None

On line availablity of Damina
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

Source:ChiroFind.com, globalherbalsupplies.com and en.wikipedia.org

1 Comment(s)

Comments RSS TrackBack Identifier URI

Leave a comment

Name (required)

Mail (will not be published) (required)

Website

If you liked the post, please subscribe to my RSS feed.
If we could help you, please spread the word.