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Damiana |
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Damiana (Turnera diffusa, syn. Turnera aphrodisiaca) is a shrub native to Mexico, Central and South America and the West Indies. It belongs to the family Turneraceae. Blooming with small yellow flowers, the shrub has an odor somewhat like chamomile, which is due to an oil present in the plant. Small yellow flowers grow in the leaf axils. The fruits are small capsules, tripartite and slightly curved. 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. Other names for damiana include old woman's broom, Mexican damiana, pastorata, hierba del venado, oreganello, and the bourrique. |
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Medicinal uses and health benefits of damiana |
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| Damiana is nerve tonic, anti-depressant, urinary antiseptic, and laxative. In herbal medicine, damiana is used to treat conditions ranging from coughs, constipation, to depression. Damiana's use has been associated with improving sexual function in both males and females. Damiana is used to regulate the female cycles. The fresh or dried leaves are beneficial for both sexes as a restorative tonic to the nervous system and reproductive organs. Damiana is an excellent strengthening remedy for the nervous system. It may help relieve anxiety and promote a feeling of well being. Damiana is also a mild laxative useful in the treatment of constipation caused by poor bowel muscle tone. As a urinary antiseptic, it is used in the treatment of infections, including cystitis and urethritis. Other uses include treatment of asthma, cough and flu, and nephritis. |
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Side effects, precautions, interactions |
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| Large doses of damiana may cause loose stools and mild euphoria. Other side effects attributed to the use of damiana include headache and insomnia. Damiana may interfere with the control of blood sugar levels. Damiana may interfere with existing hypoglycaemic therapy. |
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