The Health Benefits of Damiana

by Mike August 7, 2011

Turnera diffusa, known as damiana, is a shrub native to southwestern Texas in the United States, Central America, Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean. It belongs to the family Passifloraceae.

Damiana is a relatively small shrub that produces small, aromatic flowers. It blossoms in early to late summer and is followed by fruits that taste similar to figs. The shrub is said to have a strong spice-like odor somewhat like chamomile, due to an oil present in the plant. The leaves have traditionally been made into a tea and an incense which was used by native people of Central and South America for its relaxing effects. Spanish missionaries first recorded that the Mexican Indians drank Damiana tea mixed with sugar for use as an aphrodisiac.

Uses:

Damiana has long been claimed to have a stimulating effect on libido, and its use as an aphrodisiac has continued into modern times. More recently, some corroborating scientific evidence in support of its long history of use has also emerged. Several studies utilizing animal testing have shown evidence of increased sexual activity in sexually exhausted or impotent male rats when exposed to damiana, as well as generally increased sexual activity in rats of both sexes. It has also been shown that damiana may function as an aromatase inhibitor, which has been suggested as a possible method of action for its reputed effects.

The herbal properties of damiana are what is known as thymoleptic. That is, they possess a life enhancing and stimulating action on the body and mind of the affected person. This herbal remedy is normally prescribed for the treatment of individuals who are suffering from mild to moderate depression, including those who are affected by any long term nervous exhaustion. Affected individuals benefit from its stimulatory and restorative properties, thus the herbal remedy is considered extremely valuable when treating disorders such as anxiety and depression, especially when these affect the person at the same time. This sort of situation often happens following long term exposure to stress.

Damiana is an ingredient in a traditional Mexican liqueur, which is sometimes used in lieu of Triple Sec in margaritas. Mexican folklore claims that it was used in the "original" margarita. The damiana margarita is popular in the Los Cabos region of Mexico.

While scientists have found inconclusive data on damiana, it has recently been shown that a chemical essential to the plant's structure,damianin, has relaxing effects on the central nervous system. This chemical may therefore account, in part, for the reports of relaxation effects, however the research involved is limited at this point.

Medicinal Action and Uses:

Mild purgative, diuretic, tonic, acting directly on the reproductive organ. Historically damiana has been used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and mild depression, especially if these symptoms have a sexual component. The herb is also used as a general tonic to improve wellness. Damiana has also been used traditionally to improve digestion and to treat constipation, as in larger doses it is thought to have a mild laxative effect.

Constituents:

A greenish volatile oil, smelling like chamomile, amorhpous bitter principle Damianin, resins and tannin.

Skin Care:

Organic certified Damiana Extract is used for is aromatic properties, also as a natural anti oxidant and anti aging in skin care products as a natural component of anti wrinkle, natural anti aging, miracle lift  and a fragrance material in natural skin care.

Damiana Leaf Side Effects:

The side effects of damiana are usually not serious in nature. Damiana side effects are usually experienced when the herb or its extract is taken excessively. An overdose of damiana can cause mild indigestion, nausea and diarrhea. This herb contains a compound, called arbutin, which is a glycoside compound. This compound is converted to hydroquinone in the urinary tract. Excess of hydroquinone can cause nausea, vomiting and tinnitus. Presence of a significantly large amount of hydroquinone in the urinary tract can also cause convulsions.

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