The Health Benefits of Yohimbe Bark

The Health Benefits of Yohimbe Bark
Photo Credit Bark image by Andruxa from Fotolia.com

Yohimbe bark is considered a natural herbal product, mostly found in the jungles of the Congo, as well as throughout Nigeria, states the Natural Herbs Guide. The yohimbe is a tree whose bark has long been used in Africa to treat a variety of symptoms and illnesses. The bark of the Yohimbe tree contains an alkaloid that South Africans have used to treat everything from erectile dysfunction to cardiac conditions. Understanding some of the more common medical uses of Yohimbe bark offers consumers the opportunity to choose such herbs wisely and to meet particular needs.

Erectile Dysfunction

One of the most common uses for Yohimbe bark is in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, according to MedTV. As a natural aphrodisiac, the herb is known to increase sexual desire and function for many men, and is often used to treat impotence, especially in those who take antidepressants, which may decrease sexual desire or performance. The herb absorbs into the blood system, increasing blood flow to the genital area for both men and women, according to Body Building for You.
Yohimbe bark in extract, powder and liquid or tablet forms have also been used to treat erectile dysfunction caused by diabetes and some heart conditions, according to KCWeb.

Increased Libido

Yohimbe bark has been used to treat low libido in both men and women, helping to increase sexual desire in those suffering from tension or stress, according to Ayurvedic Cure. Acting as a stimulant for both men and women, the herb causes increased blood flow to the genitals, resulting in enhanced sensation and sexual performance stamina. The bark extract is believed to work in combination in the circulatory, reproductive and nervous systems to increase sexual interest and desire.

Mood Stabilizer

Yohimbe bark has often been used as a mood stabilizer by individuals taking at least 50 mg a day in supplement form, states Online Vitamins Guide. According to NeuroSoup, the action of the yohimbe alkaloid is believed to help boost levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain, by about 80 percent. And according to KCWeb.com, the herb is also believed to increase the production of norepinephrine, which is a neurotransmitter that may help increase focus and attention spans in individuals diagnosed with attention deficit disorder.

Increased Saliva Production

For individuals with dry mouth caused by medications, yohimbe bark extract is believed to help increase saliva production, according to the National Institutes of Health, although additional research is suggested before its efficacy for long term use may be determined.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Apr 27, 2010

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