Damiana is a shrub that grows mainly in Mexico and other areas such as South and Central America; the shrub has aromatic leaves that smell similar to chamomile and the plant itself produces fruit that tastes much like figs. The popularity and application of the damiana herb can be traced back to the time of the Mayans where they used it as an aphrodisiac and as a treatment for the digestive track, nervous system, depression, sexual function and other nerve related disorders such as paranoia and “figiting” or general restlessness.
One of the biggest allure to damiana is because of its effects on the body’s hormones in that it works to balance them and promote sexual desire and pleasure during intercourse. It has been speculated that the mild aphrodisiac effects that the nervous system experiences works in unison with the ability of damiana to balance the hormones in order to heighten sexual experience and pleasure.
Uses of Damiana
Damiana was, and still is, traditionally also used in Mexico and Mayan times to treat gastrointestinal disorders and upset. It has been found that damiana contains mild antibiotic agents that have proven to be effective against eliminating gram positive and negative bacteria which possibly help the body to remove these toxic bacteria and allow the body to restore itself to a better state of balance, especially a healthy presence of “good” bacteria in the intestines.
The main benefits of damiana are still in the departments of helping to treat sexual and nervous related conditions of the body. Those who are highly stressed, depressed, over anxious, moody or even suffering from headaches have all gravitated towards damiana because of its ability to act as a mild aphrodisiac that helps to calm nerves and help those who consume it find a sense of tranquility. Still, for most people the effects felt during sexual intercourse are most desirable, and for most others, damiana leaf helps to build desire and potency.
Because of its effects on the hormones of the body, this herb has also been used to help with symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Types of Damiana
Damiana can be found readily available in a few different forms such as damiana tea, damiana extract, alcohol and “whole herb” or pill form. The most potent part of this plant is the leaves, so before you buy damiana it is always best to check and make sure that the product you are purchasing contains the leaves of the plant or is called “whole herb” meaning the entire plant is used to make the product.
In some locations around Mexico and California damiana in alcohol form, such as margaritas, is actually one of the most popular beverages of that type you will come across. It should be noted that while damiana is being used in alcoholic beverages it has been proven that many of the beneficial medicinal effects of the important damiana leaves are lost in this form.
The suggested dose is about 450-850mg once or twice per day and about one half to a full teaspoon once or twice per day if taking it in liquid form. In the case for those who have a way to get fresh leaves, you can grind or crush the leaves down and add about a teaspoon of them per cup of tea you want to consume to boiling water and then continue to proceed as normal while preparing any other tea.
Damiana Side Effects
Those who are taking medication for diabetes should avoid this herb because it has been shown to reduce blood glucose levels and may interfere and aggravate this condition. It is advisable for those who suffer from any forms of dementia or nerve damage to avoid damiana or any other individuals who are suffering from any other kind of nerve disease; the one exception might come to fibromyalgia since studies have shown damiana can help alleviate the pain associated with this condition. This herb may also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb iron creating the possibility for anemia – those already taking iron supplements for anemia should consult their health care professional. If you are already on any medications you are intending on taking this herb to help with you should always seek medical advice before beginning.
If you are pregnant you should not take this herb in any of its forms since the hormonal effects on the placenta are not known at this point.