DAMIANA TINCTURE
Family: Passifloraceae
Genus: Turnera
Species: diffusa
Synonyms: Turnera aphrodisiaca, T. microphylla
Common Names: Damiana, Mexican holly, Old woman's broom
Parts Used: Leaves
Main Actions: Aphrodisiac, nervine, mild laxative
Other Actions: Antioxidant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory
Description: Damiana is a small shrub native to Mexico and Central America, known for its aromatic leaves and small yellow flowers.
Tribal and Herbal Medicine Uses: Used traditionally by indigenous cultures as an aphrodisiac, mood enhancer, and tonic for the nervous system.
Plant Chemicals: Flavonoids (apigenin, pinocembrin), terpenoids, phenolics, cyanoglycoside, volatile oils, phytosterol, beta carotene, hydrocarbons, and tannins
Biological Activities and Clinical Research: Research suggests aphrodisiac and anxiolytic properties, but more clinical studies are needed. Constituents of Damiana include flavonoids, cyanoglycoside, volatile oils, phytosterol, beta carotene, hydrocarbons, phenolic glycoside, and tannins. Research suggests that Damiana relieves anxiety, depression, headaches, hot flashes, and ulceration of the gastric and duodenal mucosa, and can help with urinary infections.
Current Practical Uses: Mostly used as a herbal supplement for sexual health and mood support.
Main Preparation Method: Infusion or tincture
Main Actions (in order): Aphrodisiac, nervine, mild laxative
Main Uses: Enhancing libido, reducing anxiety, mild constipation relief
Properties/Actions Documented by Research: Aphrodisiac, anxiolytic
Other Properties/Actions Documented by Traditional Use: Tonic, digestive aid. Its active ingredients, pinocembrin and acacetin, are potent inhibitors of the aromatase enzyme. Treats depression and anxiety: Damiana has been used since ancient times to treat depression and anxiety. Studies have also shown that it may help reduce the symptoms of stress and improve mood. Improves libido: Damiana is known to increase sexual desire, arousal and sensitivity. It can also be helpful in treating erectile dysfunction and sexual dysfunction. Boosts energy: Damiana has been used traditionally to improve energy levels. It can help reduce fatigue and improve physical performance. Improves digestion: Damiana has been used to relieve indigestion, constipation, and other digestive issues. Boosts immune system: Damiana can help boost the immune system and increase resistance to infection. Antioxidant activity: Damiana has antioxidant activity which can help protect against cellular damage and oxidative stress. Treats urinary tract infections: Damiana has been used to treat urinary tract infections due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cautions: May interact with certain medications; avoid high doses during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Traditional Preparation: Typically consumed as a tea or brewed into alcoholic beverages.
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to plants in the Passifloraceae family
Drug Interactions: May interact with medications metabolized by CYP2C9 or CYP3A4 enzymes.
Recommended dosage: 1-5ml taken 1-2x daily in a small glass of water or juice on an empty stomach for better absorption. When used as such, it has a relaxing effect similar to low doses of cannabis.
As a natural sexual stimulant, 5 ml of the herbal tincture 30 - 45 minutes before sex. It can be used by both men and women.
As a nerve tonic; 4ml - 2x daily in a small glass of water or juice on an empty stomach for better absorption.